9: Overcoming Obstacles to Fulfill Writing Goals with A.L. Hatcher

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Shonda Ramsey interviews A.L. Hatcher (Amanda), a self-published author of crime thrillers inspired by her background in forensic science. A.L. discusses her writing process and her preference for writing at night. She shares the inspiration behind her books, "The Blood Eagle" and "River of Lies," and her upcoming project, "Hill of Bones." A.L. emphasizes the importance of trigger warnings and balancing dark humor with serious themes. She advises aspiring authors to pursue self-publishing and highlights the rewarding experience of owning the publishing process. A.L. also mentions her upcoming book signing and a collection of short stories, "Little Jar of Teeth," set for release in October.

Action Items:

Connect with A.L. on Instagram, Threads and TikTock: @alhatcherauthor

Buy A.L.’s Books: www.alhatcherauthor.com

Visit A.L.’s Website: www.alhatcherauthor.com

A.L.’s Bio:

A.L. Hatcher holds bachelor’s degrees in both forensic investigation and forensic pathology as well as an associates degree in veterinary technology. Because of her love of animals, she was a registered veterinary technician for over 23 years but her true passion was always writing.

Today, she spends her time caring for her child, reading, listening to true crime podcasts, and writing fiction about crime, suspense, and all things dark. She lives in the Midwest with her family, some chickens, and a couple of rambunctious dogs.

A.L.’s letter to you:

Dear Indie Author,

I am writing this to inspire you to never give up on your author dreams. The feeling of holding your book in your hands for the very first time is an emotional one! Bring tissues. When your first box of books arrives and you slice through the tape holding it closed, it's like opening the best present ever.... Because it's your book!

I was told that "there was not money in writing" and that I should pick another career. (The jokes on them! There wasn't any money in the career I was pointed to either but I digress). It was many years before I really started writing again after that because I felt like I'd been told I couldn't do it. I wasn't good enough.

Fast forward over twenty years. I was forty-three years old and burnt out in my career when I decided enough was enough. It was time I did something for myself! I began by writing short stories and passing them around to coworkers and once I started getting feedback, my confidence grew. Maybe I could do this! It was then that I decided to look into self publishing, learning anything and everything I could. I'd stay up well after midnight writing my book until it was ready. And then I published it. Was I nervous? Yes! Was I excited? Yes! Was I flying by the seat of my pants? Most definitely.

My point in telling you all of this is that no matter how old you are, the size of your bank account, your education level, etc: If you want something bad enough, put in the work and strive to make it a reality because YOU ARE WORTH IT! Take the time to do something for you and write the darn book!

Happy writing,

A.L. Hatcher