Release Day!

Surviving Red is officially out! This accomplishment means so much to me. This journey has been five years in the making. To finally be here is surreal. I hope you enjoy this story and this world I created. Let me know if you can survive the red.

Thank you for your support.

Survive the Red,
Jana` Chantel

Why I Decided to Self-Publish

As a writer, I feel like we all eventually come to a crossroads when it comes to publishing our work, and that is whether to publish traditionally or self. Most of us aim towards traditional, I mean, who doesn’t want their work supported by a big publishing house? But getting a deal with a big-name publisher can be trying. That is why some tend to go the self-publishing route. For my first book, Into My Mind, I ventured down the self-publishing route. And I must say I enjoyed it. That journey taught me a lot about writing, publishing, and marketing my book. But for my debut novel, my original goal was to go down the traditional route.

For this project, Surviving Red, I felt that traditional publishers could get this out to a mass market better than I could. So, when I finished the manuscript, I began to look up literary agents to query to. But for some reason, I didn’t feel right. I didn’t feel the excitement and exhilaration about finding an agent. My spirit didn’t feel aligned. And as someone who relies heavily on their spiritual alignment, this became a big issue for me.

I began to question whether traditional publishing was right for me. I started asking family and friends, whether I should self or traditionally publish. Everyone and I mean everyone, said self—without hesitation. They all encouraged me that I had the knowledge and understanding to get my book out there to the masses. So I finalized my decision, I was going to self-publish Surviving Red.

Almost instantly, I felt my spirit align, and I heard this voice ask me, “Why are you waiting for someone to tell you yes?” I was stunned by that question. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was waiting for someone to tell me “yes” to achieve my dream. I was waiting for a “yes” from a literary agent. I was waiting for a “yes” from a big publishing house. I was giving others control over my dreams. At that moment I decided to say “yes” to myself.

Yes, I can do this.

Yes, I can make this project successful.

Yes, I can create a story that everyone will love.

I am confident that I have made the right decision, and this journey will be an exhilarating one. I am happy to share this journey with you all, and I hope you enjoy the ride.

—Jana` Chantel