It’s finally here! For those who’ve been following my writing journey, you know that I’ve been pursuing publication for my YA fantasy novel, Lily’s Passage. Though I still have a ways to go before I have books in hand, I’m embarking on the first major step in the journey: fundraising. Publishing a book costs money, there’s no way around it. It’s an investment in the future, so putting in the work on the front end to do things right pays off in the long run.

I’m thrilled to announce my partnership with Redemption Press, a hybrid Christian-owned company that is known for their excellence in independent publishing. Through Redemption Press, I’ve been given the opportunity to participate in Project Jumpstart, which is their own crowdfunding platform. My goal is to raise close to $28,000 to fund my publication, which is more than enough to raise the eyebrows of everyone I share it with.

Embarking on this journey reminds me of the scene in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade where Indy is standing on the edge of a huge chasm, knowing he must take a “leap of faith.” In doing so he finds the invisible bridge that saves him from plummeting to his death, and he easily crosses what used to seem like an impossible gap.

That’s how I feel right now: like I’m staring down an impossible gap. But I trust that God will provide all in His timing. And He is more faithful than any bridge!

Some people might be wondering why I even bother investing so much of my time, energy, and resources into this book. It’s just another story, right? Maybe. For many, it will be something they read, possibly leave a review or recommendation of, then forget about. But my hope is that there are others out there who read my work and find a glimmer of light shining through the darkness of the world.

Because that’s why I write. To be a light in the darkness.

And although the way ahead may seem obscured, I can sing with confidence the words of King David:

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Psalm 119:105 (ESV)

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