Beautiful Ashes received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Shelly Edwards-Jorgensen.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
Beautiful Ashes; April 6,2022
What’s the book’s first line?
“I had pretended to be an ordinary girl for as long as I could remember, and no one knew the truth.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
A true story of murder and betrayal, this evocative memoir follows fifteen-year-old Shelly Edwards Jorgensen from the night of her mother’s body being discovered in their family’s estate and interweaves Shelly’s memories of abuse through the days and years following. Called to the stand to be the star witness for the prosecution but living with her father, she fears for her life; and after her father’s conviction, she must learn how to rebuild a life worth living despite ongoing adversity.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
Having lived a life of trauma and found a path of healing for myself, I wanted to share my experiences and give others hope to help find their own path to healing.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
To be inspired and hopeful that even horrendous trauma is possible to overcome.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
Yes
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I was an automotive engineer for almost twenty years before I had to retire because of medical issues. Now I am a professional wife, step-mom, grandma, aunt, sister, and friend. And I volunteer with many mental health groups.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
The best is that you get to control your own destiny and have complete control over your story.
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
If this is your first book … go to as many writer’s conferences and groups as feasible so that you can to learn and receive feedback from others.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
Not now. I really don’t know what a traditional publisher can offer me other than some brick and mortar placement. I am working on doing that myself which is hard but it is doable and considering that the royalties from a traditional publisher is so much less, I don’t think that is a good value for my money. Of course, I am saying this because I already invested in professional help and have been guided in the process. But for the right price, I could be bought.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
Giving meaning to my suffering by helping others through theirs.