1. What inspired you to write your book and how did the idea come to life?
I was compelled to write my book as I searched for the How and Why I married an abusive man. Through journaling, I shared my struggles in which I lost myself; questioned my sanity; feared for my children; and hid all of it, believing I was the failure. Writing enabled me to define my situation and ultimately escape the infinite loop of living in an emotionally abusive marriage.
2. Can you share your initial goals for publishing your book?
My hope is that my book will be used as a self-help guide for others to recognize harmful behaviors early and leave harmful partners before they and their children are harmed.
3. What made you choose Gatekeeper Press as your publishing partner? How did the experience meet or exceed your expectations?
After interviewing 4 other publishing providers, I chose Gatekeeper Press because they are highly rated by The Alliance of Independent Authors and my conversation with Tony Chellini.
4. How would you describe the process of working with Gatekeeper Press, from manuscript submission to publication?
Working with Gatekeeper Press was a mix of personal touches from various team members, delivered via a technology platform (Monday). As a first-time writer, Trinity Nirenberg guided me through the entire process and the diverse and talented team are amazing. The editors and developmental editors (Jessica Knauss, Ben Mears, Choloie Benton) provided expert editing and helpful comments. The artists (Zdenka Hudakova, Davor Dramikanin, Haroula Kontorousi, and Olena T) produced fitting art for the cover and layout. Lauren Renee Frausto provided metadata and pricing guidelines. Luis Javier Mijangos is producing social media assets and social media placements.
5. What challenges did you encounter during your publishing journey, and how did Gatekeeper press assist in overcoming them?
Trinity Nirenberg explained and reassured me throughout the entire process. I came to Gatekeepers with a story to tell not knowing the necessary details of compiling and publishing a book.
6. Were there any aspects of the publishing process that surprised you or differed from what you initially expected??
I was surprised by the different experts on the team members who each contributed different functions of publishing my book
7. How do you hope readers will receive your book, and what do you hope readers will retain from it?
I hope readers use it as a self-help book. I hope readers adopt from the “Lessons Learned” and Take Back Your Power” sections and avoid or leave emotionally abusive relationships for their generation and the next.
8. What was your favorite part of the publishing experience with Gatekeeper Press?
My favorite part was working with Trinity Nierenberg and the editors (Jessica Knauss, Ben Mears, Choloie Benton) because they helped me better tell my story.
9. Would you recommend Gatekeeper Press to other authors? Why or why not?
Yes, I highly recommend Gatekeeper Press because of how they treated me.
10. What advice would you give to aspiring authors considering self-publishing their work??
Do everything you can and then seek expertise. Get a book coach to help you organize your book, ensure that each chapter feeds into the next, and then complete the story.
Discover more about Hurtful Husband, Harmful Dad and purchase a copy here.
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