1. What inspired you to write your book and how did the idea come to life?
Agridulce was inspired by a deep need to explore and express the complexities of my life and identity. My personal journey, including immigrating to the United States at a young age and experiencing the full spectrum of human emotions, strongly influenced both the book and my connection to writing. When I began creating Agridulce, I wanted to build a safe space to authentically explore the bitter and sweet moments of my life, which is reflected in its division into “Lo Agrio” and “Lo Dulce.”
This approach allowed me to dive deeply into experiences that either distanced me from myself or brought me closer. Ultimately, the book became a reflection of self-acceptance, grace, patience, and love—a letter to myself written in the most vulnerable and honest way possible.
2. Can you share your initial goals for publishing your book?
Publishing Agridulce was a long-held dream—not just for me, but for my family and ancestors, so they could live through the words now shared with the world. I had often silenced my voice out of fear of my own fire, my experiences, regrets, and vulnerabilities. Writing this book allowed me to fully explore my life’s complexities, weaving together challenges and joys into a work that reflects courage, self-acceptance, and a celebration of all parts of who I am.
3. What made you choose Gatekeeper Press as your publishing partner? How did the experience meet or exceed your expectations?
As an emerging writer, it was essential for me to find a publishing company rooted in genuine support: not one driven only by profit. I needed a place with strong values, where I could ask questions freely, express doubts, and share updates without feeling intimidated. When I spoke with Tony, something clicked. His honesty and openness reassured me that I was making the right decision, especially after comparing my options with other self-publishing companies.
Working with my author manager, Nicole, made the experience even more meaningful. She was incredibly patient and consistently helpful, answering every question I had and making sure communication with each department was clear and smooth. As someone completely new to publishing, that guidance meant everything. Gatekeeper Press supported me through choosing the right plan, finalizing my manuscript, publishing my book, and even offering continued support after its release. They helped me ensure the book truly represented my story, my identity, and my family in the most authentic way.
4. How would you describe the process of working with Gatekeeper Press, from manuscript submission to publication?
Continuing from that experience, the process of working with Gatekeeper Press was truly seamless. From the very first stage of manuscript submission, they stayed on top of everything I needed and made sure I understood each step of where my manuscript was in the process. Communication with the editors felt like a genuine team effort, which meant a lot to me—especially because it was important that the essence of my book, including the Spanish words woven throughout it, remained intact.
I also loved using the author portal, which allowed me to follow my book’s journey in real time: seeing sales, orders, and additional features all in one place. To this day, I am grateful I published with a company that goes above and beyond and truly cares about representation within the literary community.
5. What challenges did you encounter during your publishing journey, and how did Gatekeeper press assist in overcoming them?
I honestly didn’t encounter any challenges that hindered the publishing process. Everything moved smoothly, and I always felt supported. Toward the final stage of editing, there was a change in editors, but Gatekeeper Press handled the transition with clarity and care. They made sure I had enough time to review the new editor’s notes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Their communication and flexibility ensured the quality of the book remained strong, and the process stayed stress-free from start to finish.
6. Were there any aspects of the publishing process that surprised you or differed from what you initially expected?
One aspect of the publishing process that truly surprised me was how supported I felt as an indie writer. I didn’t expect to have an author manager who was so attentive, patient, and involved in every stage of the journey—a part of me thought that this level of guidance was something only traditional publishing companies offered. Having that kind of partnership made the experience feel far more personal and collaborative than I ever anticipated. It ultimately confirmed that my work was being guided by a team committed to quality, respect, and genuine author support.
7. How do you hope readers will receive your book, and what do you hope readers will retain from it?
I hope readers receive Agridulce in a way that reflects their own lives back to them. My deepest wish is that the book resonates with their experiences and emotions, helping them feel seen, understood, and less alone. I want each reader to know that it is okay to hold both the bitter and the sweet—that they can move forward without carrying the full weight of the past.
Every page carries a story, and while some may feel heavier than others, it is through vulnerability and honesty that we learn to connect more deeply with ourselves and begin to heal. My ultimate hope is that the book encourages empathy, connection, and self-discovery, reminding each reader that their journey is valid, layered, and worthy of being honored.
8. What was your favorite part of the publishing experience with Gatekeeper Press?
My favorite part of working with Gatekeeper Press was the genuine support I received. Having an author manager who guided me with patience and clarity made the experience feel personal and collaborative. I also loved the author portal—it let me follow my book’s progress in real time. As a first-time indie writer, that combination of support and transparency meant everything.
9. Would you recommend Gatekeeper Press to other authors? Why or why not?
Yes, I would definitely recommend Gatekeeper Press to other authors. My experience with them was both professional and transparent—they guided me clearly through each step of the publishing process, provided honest feedback, and made me feel supported from start to finish. Their dedication to authors and commitment to quality made the entire experience smooth and reassuring.
10. What advice would you give to aspiring authors considering self-publishing their work?
To aspiring authors considering independent publishing, my advice is to stay true to your voice and vision. Take time in creative stillness to connect deeply with yourself and your purpose, and be clear about why your work matters to you—how it makes you feel, how it helps you heal, how it honors your becomings, and how it may serve someone who will read it someday.
Avoid comparing yourself to others; everyone’s path is different, and the successes you see are often only the visible tip of the iceberg. Surround yourself with a supportive community, trust your process, and remember: your story matters.
Discover more about Agridulce: poetry and prose here.
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