Help me finalise and publish my first book

G’day Reader!

For the past 7years I have been slowly developing and writing a novel in my ‘free time’; early mornings, late nights, days off and I am quite close to finishing the story off and I would love nothing more than to take the time needed to properly complete this story, engage an editor and seek out a publisher. This takes time and precious money! The storyline is already mapped out, it just needs to be filled in and given the attention I just know it deserves.

I understand that we are all strapped for cash nowadays, and asking for others to help fund my dream is a tall ask… but you gotta shoot your shot, right?? I’m looking for people who can spare the cost of a cup of coffee? Or perhaps a business that can sponsor a hour/weeks/months pay?

If I get this story published, I’d love to find a way to also publish the names of everyone who donated! I’m not sure if this is possible at this stage of set up*, but how fun would that be!!

*I endeavour to find this out!!

A little about the story I am writing;

A period piece that is inspired by all my favourite classic novel authors (Austen/Hardy/Bronte etc) but written in easier to read language than the stories that were written 200+ years ago.

The story revolves around a female protagonist who we watch grow up and navigate behaviour around her. It’s written in the first person with plenty of observational commentary.

The audience would be suited to a range of readers, from young adults through to seasoned classic readers. The writing is heavily based on analysis of behaviour and putting together observations and would suit both classic novel readers and whodunnit enthusiasts.

Themes within this story are written with trauma informed principles in mind. Non graphic language is used throughout the story to allow for people to engage in enriching, thought provoking content without aiming for ‘shock and awe’ reactions from readers. Themes include;

A little bit about me;

I have had a fantastic career, working in the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention sector, and worked to support the Media and Creative Arts industry. My first experience was managing runners in a Post Production studio in the UK and then returning back to Australia, with the addition of a health degree, I helped support Australian and international media safely discuss sensitive topics such as mental ill health and suicide. During this time of my career, I was supporting individuals and whole production teams from everything from breaking news stories, long form interview media, news segments, creative writing, tv series (fictional and factual) as well as feature length movies. I have supported with multiple Netflix productions, Stan, ABC, SBS and others. Mostly paid support, but I have also provided free/pro bono support to Independent productions.

I am also a member of a Hunter Writers group and I was diagnosed with Dyslexia and Dyscalculia in 2023 after the birth of my first child. I truely believe that Dyslexia is my most powerful creative tool and this diagnosis has only enriched my own creative writing process.

This really is a humbling experiencing asking for financial help. It’s something I have been toying with for a while and I would love to see you all come on the journey with me.

Much love,

Niff