My Story: The Winding Path to Self-Publishing After 50

For years, the words “write your first novel” taunted me from the top of my ever-growing bucket list. By the time I hit my mid-forties, I’d started several books but one thing or another got in the way of my completing them. Five years ago I moved out of the Big Apple, leaving behind my family, house, and career to start over in Cincinnati, Ohio.

I am a born and bred New Yorker, which comes with the infamous New York State of Mind. Thanks, Billy, but I’m referring to the infamous Big Apple-centric, don’t-mess-with-me mentality. Imagine bringing my ‘tude and intrinsic need to express my opinions--employing the requisite volume--to a Midwest city of polite, chatty residents. Cincy didn’t know what hit her.

​In time, I grew to love the wide-open spaces, cleanliness, low-stress, and friendly environment. And my new community grew to love me too. I take pride that five years ago the same tranquil dinner table of new local friends now shares a wide range of ideas in boisterous camaraderie. You are welcome!

Relocating comes with inherent challenges. Learning my way around a new city, finding a new doctor and gym, and let’s not forget the elusive speedy hairstylist. This along with missing all I left behind. Yet, the upsides need to be acknowledged and appreciated. I now have breathing room. Not just literally, given the neighborhood sprawl, but also the mental space that allows my creative juices to flow.

Which leads me back to writing. The seeds of a new book took hold while I was still in New York-- college students unwittingly manipulated to kill at the behest of a powerful terrorist syndicate. One afternoon, I decided to share the premise with my husband and son. They became nearly as excited as I felt. The next thing I knew, I was plunging headfirst into the project. Since then, I’ve traveled to cities all over the world, bringing my laptop along. I’ve incorporated many of these places in my projects, and will continue to do so. As a writer, research is necessary but real-life experiences are invaluable. All along, the passion for continuing my story raged on.

​I am 53 now and have years of writing, editing, finding beta readers, and re-editing behind me, leading me to where I am today--ready to publish my debut novel Spree, this summer.

It’s been tough, fun, exciting, and even tedious at times, but I’ve loved every second and can’t wait to hold the print book in my hands. Nellie’s Notes is the best way I know how to share my journey with other writers, particularly those over 50 who have also decided to pursue their own publishing dream. I’ll offer my experiences, successes, pitfalls, and always-needed encouragement. If I can do it, so can you.