It’s never too late to dream a new dream.
I dreamed of writing a book, and I did it, my memoir, Bare Naked in Public.
In July of 2017 I moved to Italy to write a book. A year later I came home with the first draft of my memoir, certain it would be published in no time. “No time” turned into five years of edits, rewrites, a hundred queries and many kindly worded rejection letters. I began to doubt that my story would ever see the light of day.
Not knowing where to turn next, I reached out to someone whose opinion I respected, a friend in the business. I asked her to read my manuscript. I had to know . . .
Had I written something worth publishing, or had I dreamed too big a dream?
Within days of receiving my manuscript, she made me an offer, and I cried.
A year and a half later, Bare Naked in Public was published.
Teri Rider of Torch Flame Books, an imprint of Top Reads Publishing, was the perfect fit for me and my story.
Thank you Teri, for believing in me and my dream.
Bare Naked in Public: A Memoir
For as long as I can remember I’ve said, “One day I’m going to write a book.”
I had not considered a genre or even when this would happen. I only knew that I had something to say.
Here it is, my first book . . .
Sometimes you have to risk baring it all.
Bare Naked in Public is now featured on shepherd.com, an excellent source for reading recommendations from your favorite authors in your favor genres.
While this is a great site for readers, it’s also a place for authors to showcase their books. Simply recommend five books in a specific genre and your book will be featured as well. The support team is helpful and efficient.
Whether you are a reader or a writer, you’ll love the site. Click on the button below to read my recommendations for five of my favorite memoirs.
While you are there, peruse literally thousands of recommendations.
Honors and Awards
Chanticleer International Book Award
My memoir, Bare Naked in Public, was considered for the Chanticleer International Book Award in two categories. The Journey Award recognizes exceptional narrative non-fiction writing, focusing on overcoming significant life challenges. The Hearten Award recognizes uplifting and inspiring true stories. My book made the longlist and then the shortlist in both categories!
It was quite a ride to wait and watch as semifinalists were named. Bare Naked in Pubic made it as a semifinalist for the Journey Award but did not make the cut to move forward to the final competition.
I am incredibly proud of this accomplishment and grateful for this honor.
Thanks to all who cheered me on from the sidelines.
