Pep Talks & Plot Twists

Words to Inspire:

"To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often."

~Winston Churchill

Hey friends,

So, let’s talk about AI. Not in the “robots are taking over” way or the “AI wrote this novel” way (because hard pass for me on that last one). I mean AI in the indie author world way. Specifically—can it help us work smarter without crossing a moral line?

If you know me, you know I write my own words. That’s a hill I’ll gladly camp on (but not die on, let’s not be dramatic).

But as an indie author juggling a million moving parts, I’ve found that AI can help behind the scenes—organizing ideas, repurposing newsletters, brainstorming social posts, or handling some of the brain-fog admin work that sneaks into the creative process. For me, it’s a tool. Not a co-writer. Not a shortcut to storytelling.

Then I heard the darker stuff:

• That AI is trained using content scraped without permission.

• That it guzzles energy and harms the environment.

• That it could be taking jobs from creatives and workers who can’t afford to lose them.

• That it’s not inclusive or equitable in ways that matter.

Honestly? I didn’t see it coming. I thought the biggest debate was about authors faking authorship. But clearly, there’s more to explore. And I’m here for the conversation.

I still believe tech is a tool—it’s how we use it that matters. I’m not ready to throw it out, but I am ready to keep learning and stay aware of how my choices impact others.

So I’m asking questions. I’m listening. And I’m committed to being mindful of the way I move forward.

If you’ve got thoughts, concerns, experiences, or strong opinions about AI—send them my way. Let’s talk about it. Respectfully. Honestly. Like humans.

Whew. Plot twist delivered. Now here comes the peppier part.

Because that AI convo? Just wow! In fact, I got my ass kicked a little over on Threads for initiating that convo. But if we’re going to wrestle with the tough stuff, we also get to celebrate the sweet stuff. So let’s shift gears into something that’s been giving me life lately…

TITLE REVEAL TIME!

Book 1 of my YA/NA series officially has a name:

Waiting For Ever

The For Ever Series, Book One

It’s angsty, a little steamy, and full of the kind of heart-tugging moments I live to write. This one’s been brewing for a while, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you.

• The manuscript heads to formal editing on June 8 (cue nerves and happy dancing).

• I’m working with an amazing artist on character art to help bring Everly, our main character, to life. Think stickers, bookmarks and social content.

• ARC signups will be opening soon for anyone who wants to be part of my hype team and help launch this book and series into the world.

• A super fun release party is in the early planning stages—because yes, we will be celebrating.

• The cover is being designed as we speak, and I’ll be sharing the first peek very soon!

A quick little PSA: My socials are shifting to be a little more bookish + biz focused—less personal, more writing life and story stuff. Still me, still grateful you’re here. Hope you’ll stick around.

Thank you (always) for cheering me on. Whether you’re here for the pep talks, the plot twists, or a little bit of both—I’m so glad you’re on this journey with me.

Until next time, wishing you all happiness, good health and good books.

Carol