What does it really take to be an author today? We asked local writers about their creative habits, digital challenges, first influences, and the unseen layers of the writing life.
Was there a particular book or author that first made you fall in love with storytelling?
MM: There were so many! I was blessed to have parents who fed me books from an early age on, and once I could read by myself, I devoured them all, children's books that sparked magic and French classics that captured my heart. But if I must name one in particular, it would be Pearl Buck’s Peony, the impossible love story between a beautiful Chinese bondmaid and a gentle Jewish man in 1800s China. Pearl Buck was a superb storyteller; her writing poetic and dramatic, her characters unforgettable, her scenes a visual feast, her stories heartbreaking. She turned me into a 10-year-old lover of great historical fiction.
BQ: I wasn’t much of a reader when I was a kid. For a long time, I just didn’t have the patience to sit still and quietly and read. But I remember hearing about the Harry Potter series at school and I wanted to know what everyone was talking about. My dad got me the first book and we read it together. That was the first time I was really introduced to the fantasy genre, and I just completely fell in love with it – with the magic and whimsy and wonder, dragons and sorcery, and imagination fully on display.
SD: I’ve loved books for as long as I can remember. I devoured Little Golden Books and treasured the children’s classics in red leatherbound editions that lined the shelves of my first home library. Being an only child, I found companionship, adventure, and understanding in the pages of books. That quiet connection with story and character sparked my imagination early on. By fifth grade, I knew I wanted to someday write children’s books. I was drawn to the way stories could transport you, comfort you, and make you feel less alone. That magic never left me. Now, I try to pass that same sense of connection and wonder on to young readers—with a little help from talking animals, of course.
As a child, one of my favorite books was Black Beauty. More than a story about a horse, it’s a powerful commentary on animal welfare and human behavior, often considered one of the first animal rights books. Its themes of empathy and the impact of kindness left a lasting impression on me and continue to influence my own stories, which bring attention to animal-assisted therapy, shelter animals, and compassionate choices.
JC: There are several books that I remember as favorites when I first began reading “chapter books” as a child or preteen. Those that come immediately to mind are A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle (which is interesting because I have never really favored the science fiction genre), the Nancy Drew series, and the one that was most impactful, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Alcott made me feel as if I knew those sisters and could possibly even be one of them.
What’s something readers would be surprised to know about your creative process?
MM: Every day, I cocoon myself behind my desk after lunch, turn off my phone, and write from 1 to 6 pm. No intrusion, no diversion, no exception. Sometimes the words tumble out, sometimes they just trickle, but every day, I make a point of moving the story forward, even if by just one badly written page. And I always leave myself a note on where to pick up the next day.
BQ: I grew up playing classical piano. Music’s always been a big part of who I am and has always really resonated with me. So, when I get stuck on a chapter or character dialogue feels a little off, I listen to music. To me, certain instruments really represent specific characters. When I’m really stuck, I hop in my car and drive around town, listening to music until a solution to my writing problem pops into my head or until the jumbled puzzle pieces all come together.
SD: Many people think I start with the plot—but I actually start with the animal. I imagine them in the shelter: their personality, their fears, and the story behind their eyes. From there, the story unfolds. I write with a strong sense of purpose, often reflecting the true stories of how animals find themselves in shelters through no fault of their own. Sometimes a character comes to me in a quiet moment, and I know they’re ready to have their story told. I also collaborate closely with my illustrator to make sure the heart of the animal comes through in every expression and gesture. It’s never just about writing a children’s picture book—it’s about giving a voice to those who can’t speak and a second chance to those who deserve it most. And of course, Jasmine, my most recent shelter cat, always has a paw in the process. She’ll curl up in the chair behind me, and when I look at her, ideas just start to unfold as if she’s gently whispering, “This is the story that needs to be told next.”
JC: Surprising or not – my creative process ebbs and flows. There are times when I can barely accomplish anything else because I am compelled, absolutely driven, to write. Then there are times when I sit down to try to get some thoughts on a page and nothing substantial happens. And, frankly, there is almost no predicting either of those scenarios.
Do you start with an audience in mind, or do you write for yourself first?
MM: I wrote my first novel solely for myself, which I think is how most writers start. Finishing Unexpected was a challenge; I had much to prove to myself and couldn’t worry about style, trends, or trying to please and predict other people’s expectations. Now it’s a mix. I write the draft from my naked heart to myself and let the story go where it needs to go, but I’m mindful of my readers throughout the rewrites and edits, which has been hugely beneficial. Even imaginary readers demand consistency and check everything; if something is incoherent, overblown, boring, or silly, they’ll let me know through whispers or clamors. Writing for myself and for them has bettered both my writing and my stories.
BQ: I believe wholeheartedly in writing a book that I would want to read myself. If I’m not interested in the story, the world, or the characters, how can I expect other people to be?
SD: My stories are written for young readers—especially those who might be navigating big feelings like fear, loneliness, or uncertainty. I want them to feel seen, supported, and hopeful. At the same time, I’m also aware that adults—parents, teachers, or caregivers—will be reading these books too. So, I layer in gentle messages that spark conversation and compassion across generations. While the heart of each story begins with my passion for animals and emotional resilience, I never forget who I’m writing for. I want every child who reads (or hears) one of my books to know they matter—and to feel the healing power of the bond between people and animals, where second chances can change both lives, and where animals aren’t just being helped—they’re helping, too.
JC: I do not start with an audience in mind. In fact, when I am questioned by editors or marketing experts as to “who is my audience”, I find it challenging to respond. It is the story and the characters that are at the forefront of my mind and that lead the process.
How much weight do you give to relatability when developing characters or themes?
MM: A lot. Relatability is essential to ground my stories and anchor readers in the reality that I imagine. Relatable characters are the blood of stories; compelling themes are the essence, and the fun part of storytelling is bringing them together. Humans are complicated, imperfect, and capable of mind-boggling things. Even heroes make mistakes, supermodels have insecurities, wrongdoers are redeemable, courage can be reckless, and thuggery can come from a tragic background. I believe a good story needs characters who are flawed, driven, and justified. If readers can feel a connection, relate to a protagonist’s situation, sympathize with their inner struggles, love or hate them warts and all, that story becomes personal and memorable.
BQ: As an author of high-fantasy, relatability when it comes to my characters is imperative. The world of my books is filled with enchanted jungles, other worldly creatures, and magic cults. If there is no human aspect to the characters, no quirks or qualms or defects, then there’s nothing for the reader to relate to in the story. Our world doesn’t have knights with magical weapons or dragons burning down villages. But my books are populated by characters who suffer from anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, and grief. I think those aspects of the characters, the things that make them human in a world filled with the fantastical, is what hooks readers and gets them invested in the story.
SD: Relatability is at the core of everything I write. Many of my stories are inspired by real reasons animals end up in shelters—loss, misunderstanding, aging, or simply being overlooked. I want all readers to connect with these experiences, not just from the animals’ perspective, but emotionally, too. Whether a child is feeling left out, scared, or uncertain of where they belong, I want them to see themselves in these stories. When a character’s journey mirrors a child’s own challenges—bullying, shyness, or needing a second chance—it opens the door for healing, empathy, and hope.
I once watched a shy, withdrawn boy read aloud to a trained pet therapy dog. The boy stumbled at first, his voice barely above a whisper. But the dog simply lay there, eyes kind and patient, listening. As he read, one hand turned the pages while the other never stopped petting the dog, a quiet bond forming with every word. By the third page, the boy was reading louder, his shoulders straighter. In that quiet moment, it wasn’t just the boy helping the dog feel loved—it was the dog helping the boy find his voice. That’s the kind of connection I hope my stories reflect: simple, yet profound.
My goal is for every story to gently say, “You’re not alone and better days are ahead.” That message extends to both children and shelter animals because every heart deserves a second chance. And through the lens of animal-assisted therapy, we’re reminded that animals aren’t just being helped—they’re helping, too, offering comfort, courage, and connection in the most unexpected ways. As I often say, “Adoption. A great option!™”
JC: I think it is important for readers to be able to relate to characters. All characters do not need to be likable, or even “believable” (because haven’t we all met people who are a bit unbelievable at times?), but it is important that their actions reflect the humanness in all of us, for that is what makes someone relatable, someone with whom it is reasonable to connect through the story.
What aspects of today’s digital world do you find most difficult to navigate as a writer?
MM: As a storyteller, none. I grew up in times when the news came out of a transistor radio, and you had to drive to the library during opening hours to find the information you sought. Nowadays, everything is an easy click away, and I love it. However, as a writer aspiring to sustain a creative career, I find navigating the digital world overwhelming. Yet it’s inescapable if you want to get published and be successful. A creative mind is no longer enough; you must have a good marketing sense too, know your audience, platforms, and social media, and learn how to promote and sell your books. I’m still learning.
BQ: Social media is a new aspect of the writing and publishing industry that really frazzles me. It’s fun for personal use but using it as a marketing and audience engagement tool was a learning curve. Back when Mary Shelly was writing, she wasn’t worried about making sure she posted to Instagram and TikTok at least once a day. Her focus was just on her craft. I wish all my time was spent writing but so much of what I do is posting digital content (videos, pictures, and animations) to promote my work and interact with my readers. Navigating the ins and outs and ever-changing algorithms isn’t something I was entirely prepared for when I became a full-time author.
SD: The constant pressure to “keep up” is one of the hardest parts. Between algorithms, ever-changing platforms, and the push to be visible everywhere at once, it can feel like your creative voice gets lost in the noise. I’m a writer at heart—not a social media expert—so balancing social media, marketing, and online engagement while staying true to my purpose can be overwhelming. I want to connect meaningfully, not just post for the sake of visibility. What matters most to me is helping people understand the deep, life-changing bond between humans and animals. That’s the heart of everything I create. That message deserves to be seen and felt, not lost in the noise of the digital world.
I’ve learned to concentrate on the platforms that reflect my values—ones that allow me to share meaningful stories about the healing connection between people and animals, highlight the importance of animal advocacy, and engage authentically with readers who care about making a difference. Facebook has been a natural fit for me, especially through my “Jasmine Here!®” posts. Sharing stories, tips, and inspiration from a cat’s perspective allows me to educate, entertain, and connect with readers in a way that feels both genuine and fun. I’m finding that when I lead with purpose, the right audience finds me.
JC: Distinguishing legitimate, high-quality opportunities for book promotion versus those charging large amounts of money for marketing in obscure magazines or online publications has been particularly troublesome as a self-published author. Over time, one learns to detect cues that the so-called interest in your work either comes from an AI generated source, or a standard piece of correspondence that is widely distributed to every author on Amazon, but it is a distraction that is discouraging and takes away from writing time.
With social media influencing what people read, do you feel compelled to tailor your writing to what’s trending online? How do you balance artistic integrity with market demands or trends?
MM: I don’t spend time worrying about social media or popular trends. Of course, like all artists, I want to create beautiful art and be recognized for it, but commercial success has never been my driving force. It would require reining in my imagination, tailoring my vision, perhaps even altering my storytelling style to the market demands. I couldn’t do it. For me, it’s all about the unbridled joys of writing, being true to myself, and writing unique and authentic stories straight from my heart.
BQ: I write fantasy. Which, in today’s digital landscape, seems to translate instantly to romantasy. It’s as if classic bildungsroman stories have been completely forgotten. My book is so far from being a romantasy it’s laughable. So, trying to make sure that point comes across so the series finds the demographic that will actually enjoy it is a bit of a challenge. Nevertheless, even in knowing that romantasy is the dominant sub-genre within fantasy literature these days, I have no intention of changing the stories I write. I’m passionate about my work. I have faith that it’ll find the right readers. I work hard to make sure marketing and promotional videos and images I post to all my official socials are on brand and reflect the content of my work accurately.
SD: While I stay aware of trends, I don’t let them drive my stories. I write my children’s picture books according to industry standards and with great care, knowing how impressionable young readers are. I work with a professional children’s book writing coach who helps keep my stories on track—making sure my characters stay true to their point of view and gently reminding me to limit overused adverbs, especially those ending in 'ly'. That’s why all three books in my Maddie and Jasmine series have been honored with the Gold Mom’s Choice Award, recognizing their quality, heart, and positive impact on young readers.
Writing for children carries a responsibility—I’m not just telling a story; I’m helping shape a heart and mind. My focus is on meaningful themes like kindness, bullying, emotional resilience, and the deep bond between children and animals. Those messages never go out of style. Artistic integrity, for me, means staying true to my purpose while still creating stories that are engaging and accessible. Social media may shape what’s popular, but I let purpose shape what’s lasting.
JC: As a writer who began publishing relatively late in life (after retirement from full-time employment), I had very specific themes and messages that I wished to convey in my writing. Finding moments of gratitude and joy after loss, embracing the comfort to be found in nature, and the value of connections with family and friends are inspiring topics, yet they have little to do with what is trending. Very aware of the genres that occupy the top-selling books, I deliberately chose not to try to find an agent or a publisher, but rather, retain the literary freedom/artistic integrity that self-publishing allows me. And, although I am about ready to publish a non-fiction book with the potential to attract a different audience, I’m not willing to give up the control that I have over what is ultimately included in this book. It features a focus on people and what makes them who they are.
What platforms (if any) have been most helpful for connecting with readers?
MM: If I’m not fond of spending long hours online to gain commercial viability, I do look forward to long-term relationships with readers. I have an author website ( www.myriana-merkovic.com ), a presence on Amazon and Facebook, and I will start releasing periodic newsletters in the near future. My path is still evolving as I gain more insights and experience and become digitally savvier.
BQ: I railed against TikTok for so long. Everyone told me that’s the new BookTube, that’s where the readers are going, that’s where you need to be to sell books. And I stubbornly dug my heels in and refused to get involved on the app. Now, years later and after having amassed over twenty thousand followers so far, I realize how stupid I was being. TikTok is a wonderful tool for marketing; it’s a perfect platform to post relatable content that gets perspective readers engaged with not only your books, but also you as the author. I’ve cultivated an audience there and hope to keep meeting new people, networking, and flourishing within the BookTok space.
SD: Facebook has been one of the most helpful platforms for connecting with readers—especially through my “Jasmine Here!”® posts, where I speak through the voice of my rescue cat, Jasmine. It creates a warm, engaging way to share updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and advocacy for shelter animals. In-person events like book signings and community fundraisers have also been incredibly meaningful. One of the most rewarding experiences has been helping launch the Kids to Kitties program at the Humane Society of St. Lucie County where children visit the shelter to read to cats—nurturing both literacy and compassion. My blog/newsletter continues that conversation with weekly posts that spotlight adoption stories, children’s book reviews, and ways families can help animals in need. My Maddie and Jasmine Activity Book will add another layer of connection by giving children a creative, hands-on way to engage with the stories. Whether online or face-to-face, my goal is always to inspire, connect, and make a difference—one story at a time.
JC: I connect best with readers face-to-face, in person. I find events such as book signings, book clubs, even teaching writing classes at the library provide more meaningful connections than any platform that is technology based. I use Social Media because there is almost no choice if I want to spread the word about my books, but I regard it as a necessary, but bothersome modality.
What does “branding” mean to you as a literary artist, and do you embrace it, resist it, or try to redefine it?
MM: My free spirit told me to resist it, my mind to embrace it, and it won. The book market is oversaturated; there are 20 million book titles available on Amazon alone, and 30,000 new e-books published in just four days on the Kindle Store. It’s hard to wrap one’s head around these numbers, even harder for a writer not to get discouraged. Realizing that my stories would remain eternally buried in this colossal avalanche of books, I created something of a signature brand to set me somewhat apart from other authors without going all in. I want to be known for storytelling that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, timeless themes sprinkled with wonder and magic, and the emotions I hope my words bring to readers. But I don’t write in a specific genre for a specific demographic, and I don’t tailor my storytelling to attract a target audience. I doubt that will ever change.
BQ: Branding is everything. Whether it’s a certain color scheme, specific font, or overall aesthetic to everything you present, you need to be on brand and consistent in this business. Thankfully, I’ve built a brand true to myself. Nothing’s performative. My book’s aesthetic and overall vibe reflects who I genuinely am. That makes dressing for events easy. I don’t have to try and look like the author of a dark fantasy adventure with horror film inspirations. I wrote a book for the Hot Topic teens out there and I, a woman now in my early thirties, am just a grown-up version of them. So, when I show up dressed in ‘corporate goth’ or ‘elder emo chic’, it’s entirely on brand as I stand in front of my black and gold marketing materials decorated generously in red splatter.
SD: To me, being a literary artist isn’t about logos or slogans—it’s about showing up consistently with a message that matters. My brand is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and the deep belief that animals and humans have the power to heal each other—and that the impact we make on their lives echoes far beyond our own. While we care for them with love and intention, they quietly care for us in return, offering comfort, connection, and a reminder of what truly matters. Whether I’m writing a picture book, sharing a “Jasmine Here!®” post, or speaking to a group, I stay true to my voice and vision: to inspire empathy, highlight the power of animal-assisted therapy, and help readers see shelter animals as heroes in their own right.
I write children’s picture books that advocate for shelter pets, emotional resilience, and kindness—and my brand reflects that mission at every turn. Whether I’m writing a story, giving a book reading, or posting as Jasmine the cat in my “Jasmine Here!®” Facebook postings, I’m always focused on helping children grow into compassionate, empowered humans—while also giving animals a second chance. Many of my stories highlight how animals help people heal, weaving in gentle themes of animal-assisted support and connection. So yes, I embrace branding—but on my terms. It’s not about selling something. It’s about building trust and recognition through storytelling that matters. My brand isn’t just what I write—it’s why I write.
JC: I do not think much at all about branding. To me, branding is similar to your question about writing for what is trending. For me, it is about creating something that feels meaningful to me, and hoping that it is meaningful to someone else. I’m concerned that branding could actually narrow the potential audience by creating a label or expectation that may turn someone away from what I have created.
Can you share what your publishing journey has looked like so far and why you chose that route?
MM: My road to publishing resembles that of many authors: it was hard. We all want to get traditionally published, have readers embrace our books, and earn a few dollars in the process. Unfortunately, in this highly competitive publishing world, it rarely happens that way. Hundreds of queries land daily on literary agents’ desks, and most publishers won’t accept unsolicited submissions, which leaves authors riding the self-publishing highway, which has its own advantages. I hired professional editors and cover and interior designers for Unexpected, Hearts We Leave Behind, and The Garden of Mercy, contacted book bloggers, and got reviews before and after publishing on Amazon. My fourth book, The Healer’s Daughter, a historical novel set in the late 17th-century American colonies, demanded I be more patient and aim higher. I did, and it is now being considered by a US literary agent and a UK publisher. Fingers crossed. That said, whether traditionally or self-published, whether my books sell or don’t, I will always write. It’s an urge I cannot ignore.
BQ: I have a degree in creative writing and English literature. My professors at UCF made it seem like that was going to open a lot of doors for me if I pursued a career in writing. After I completed my manuscript (and edited it about ten times), I shopped around for a literary agent. After being told over and over again that my book didn’t fit the stringent guidelines for what was YA Fantasy or what was Adult Fantasy, I gave up on traditional publishing all together.
My decision to go indie wasn’t one I made lightly. Running your own business isn’t for everyone and I wasn’t entirely convinced it was going to be for me. But I like that I have full creative control. I always loved art and writing, so as an indie author it’s fun for me to be able to write the story I want to write and design the book cover that I think works best with it. I do everything, I wear a lot of hats; I’m the author, artist, formatter, PR person, marketing executive, social media manager, and a whole host of other roles that come up on an ad hoc basis.
SD: My publishing journey has been both purposeful and deeply personal. I chose to work with Hasmark Publishing International because they aligned with my values and supported my vision of writing meaningful children’s books that advocate for shelter animals and emotional well-being. From the beginning, I wanted a partner who would honor both the heart of my stories and the quality of the finished product.
Working with Hasmark has given me the creative freedom to stay true to my mission while also ensuring professional support in areas like editing, design, and global distribution. It’s allowed me to maintain ownership of my voice while reaching an international audience. Most importantly, this path has enabled me to blend storytelling with advocacy—turning each book into a platform for compassion, education, and change.
JC: My publishing journey began with the desire to share deep emotions and powerful experiences related to finding joy after enduring grief. I hoped to provide insight that might uplift others when they most needed to find solace. After reading everything I could find about the benefits and pitfalls of seeking a publisher or self-publishing, and discovering that few agents respond in anything close to a timely manner, I decided to self-publish. I simply did not have the patience to wait for a process that disregards the monumental amount of effort writers put forth, but basically ignoring their requests for months on end.
I began with fiction, and when Comfort in the Wings was complete, I felt lost without it, and realized there was more to my main characters’ stories. That one then led to a trilogy.
As the trilogy came to a place where I could take a pause and determine if I wanted to write more in the same series, an idea that had been germinating in my mind for a couple of years leapt to the forefront. With a colleague, Elizabeth Clark, I wrote Unlikely to Unstoppable: Stories from Everyday Entrepreneurs. To develop this book, we interviewed twelve people who, despite unlikely beginnings, have forged successful paths for themselves. It was inspired by my father, who also had a rocky start, and who had kept journals and memoirs. So, his writings are interwoven with the interview findings. It is very different from my other three books, but as much a labor of love as the fictional stories.
What do you hope readers feel or question after finishing your work?
MM: I hope my stories linger in their minds long after turning the last page. I hope they are flooded with endorphins and dopamine. I hope they feel the story was written for them. I hope they care.
BQ: More than anything, I hope they had fun. My books get a little dark sometimes and my characters like to brood. But the world is vibrant, the characters are full of life, and the story is bombastic. I hope readers walk away with a smile and anxious to pick up the next book in the series.
SD: I hope readers walk away with full hearts and a sense of possibility—for themselves and for the animals waiting for a second chance. I want children to feel seen, supported, and inspired, especially those who might be struggling with big emotions or tough situations. And I hope they begin to ask deeper questions, like: What does kindness look like in action? What does it mean to truly care for another being?
Whether it’s a child learning empathy or a family considering pet adoption, I want my stories to plant seeds of compassion that grow long after the last page is turned. A key part of that message is highlighting the quiet, transformative power of animal-assisted therapy. Animals have a way of reaching hearts where words sometimes can’t—offering comfort, building trust, and encouraging emotional healing. Through my stories, I hope readers of all ages begin to see animals not just as companions, but as partners in growth, resilience, and emotional well-being. To quote Ellie Laks, author of Cow Hug Therapy, “Animals have the wisdom of the Universe, pure instincts not harnessed by society’s ideas of who and what is acceptable.”
JC: I would love for the readers of my fiction to feel hope and empowerment to live full lives, even if they are missing a lost loved one. There were five people near and dear to me who passed away within a short period of time, and while it devastated me in many ways, it also inspired me to live every moment to the fullest because we are not promised any time beyond right now. I would be honored if others felt that from reading the Love That Does Not Die Trilogy.
Relating to the newest book, we hope that the stories of people who could very much be a reader’s next door neighbor inspire others to choose a path to pursue and keep on going.
What advice would you give aspiring authors trying to break into the industry today?
MM: Don’t give up, and don’t let rejection defeat you; it’s part of the journey. Getting published is a game of talent, luck, and timing, but there will always be a need for great debut writers and compelling stories, even in today’s inundated book world. Don’t dwell on success, but on writing stories that matter with characters you care about, and make them the best books you can write. With patience and perseverance, your unique manuscript will land on the right editor’s desk at the right time and will get published. It will happen. But until then, this is my advice: Write every single day, even just ten minutes during break, and keep working at your craft regardless of how (un)inspired you feel. Read everything and pay attention to what works and what doesn’t in those books. Attend conferences, join writing groups, and network with other writers online. Submit your work to writing contests, magazines, agents, and publishers (after it’s been professionally edited). Above all, be inspired by what you write and love the journey of writing because, seriously, nothing compares.
BQ: The biggest and most crucial advice I can give is to be absolutely sure this is what you want to do. It’s an old cliché to say that work in the entertainment industry (acting, dancing, singing, writing, music) is hard. But that’s because it’s true. Very few artists find success right away. You have to be determined, resilient, and have total belief in yourself. If you’re not willing to work strange hours, fight for your work, and be the face of your brand, this may not be the career path you want to take.
SD: Write from your heart and let your purpose guide you. The publishing world can be overwhelming, but your voice matters—especially when it’s rooted in something meaningful. Stay true to your message, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision but also be ready to do the work. This journey takes patience, persistence, and a willingness to grow through feedback. Most importantly, celebrate every step. Whether you’re writing your first draft or signing your first book, you’re already making a difference.
JC: I tell aspiring writers to just get started – just write something. Or, take a class with like-minded individuals who want to get started. I have enjoyed teaching a series of classes at our local library titled, “It’s Never Too Late to Write”. It was great fun to have a group of ten people trying their hands at writing with just a little encouragement from me and the others in the class.
Any additional insights, upcoming projects or dates?
MM: Among the many internet resources helping writers find the right literary agents, these are the ones I find the most useful:
Query Tracker (free)- https://querytracker.net/agents/
Duotrope ($5/month)- https://duotrope.com
Publisher Marketplace- https://www.publishersmarketplace.com
Manuscript Wish list (MSWL) ($25/month)- https://www.manuscriptwishlist.com
Good luck and have fun! If you want to find out more about Myriana Merkovic’s published books and upcoming novel, please check out her author website: www.myriana-merkovic.com
SD: I’m thrilled to be writing a second children’s book series titled Jasmine’s Paws & Tales Series, where shelter animals speak to one another and share their unique journeys toward adoption. Each book features a new animal protagonist, with Jasmine the cat and her loyal friends Lucky and Rory helping along the way.
Book 1, Baxter and The Power of Mud, launched on April 29, 2025, and became an international bestseller on its release day. Book 2, Dewey, The Purrfect Painter, is scheduled for release on October 7, 2025.
This series is close to my heart—it not only highlights the challenges and triumphs of shelter animals but also weaves in themes of empathy, emotional resilience, and the therapeutic power of the human-animal bond.
My publisher, Hasmark Publishing International, is currently working on the Maddie and Jasmine Activity Book, which will be filled with creative, literacy-boosting activities for young readers. The goal is to have it completed and available by the end of the year—because the fun shouldn’t stop when the story ends!
JC: Some people might be interested to know that I love speaking to Book Clubs about my books if they have chosen to read them. Do not hesitate to ask!
My latest book, “Unlikely to Unstoppable: Stories from Everyday Entrepreneurs” became available on May 13, 2025. I have not yet begun promoting it in Stuart, as I am in upstate New York for the summer. But, I will be happy to share it from my website (www.wordsinthewingspress.com) until I return to Martin County in November!
