Chapter 3 of my YA holiday supernatural book Frost is now live on Wattpad!
Tag: author
Interview with Author Roshana Ariel
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I always enjoyed creative writing throughout school. I took a class in high school that helped nurture that little spark. My mother was an unofficial editor—as a medical librarian, she would edit doctors’ papers for medical journals. She would sometimes edit my school papers too, and they were always so much better when she touched them. That’s how I learned how powerful editing can be.
Later in life, I became an editor at daily newspapers in the Midwest, and in that role, I started writing a weekly column. That continued for many years.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
I wrote a Christmas column one year, in 2012, which became this book, “Merry Christmas, Cosmos.” I remember waking up over and over one night as another line of text came to me. It sort of wrote itself that night. I was inspired by the idea of evolution and some of the books that were coming out around that time—“Evolutionaries” by Carter Phipps was one.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
I would love for people to recognize that we’re all one big family on this planet, evolved from tiny creatures swimming about in primordial pools. And that Earth is our common home. I would love for the divisiveness in the world to decrease and the understanding of our shared heritage to grow.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
It grew out of the inspiration from the Christmas column I wrote. From that place, I just wanted to illustrate it. One of my favorite books is “Your Illustrated Guide to Becoming One With the Universe,” by Yumi Sakugawa. It came out a year after my book. I love short books with a powerful message.
5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Social media? I haven’t even posted my book yet on Facebook. But I will. I don’t do much social media-ing.
6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Read your writing out loud; that helps a lot with hearing the rhythm in your writing. And go with your heart, and edit, edit, edit until it feels just right.
7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
Since I published this book, I wrote a song to go with it: “Merry Christmas, Cosmos (the song).” I’ve gone into the studio and recorded my parts and have spent many hours tweaking it for release. It should be uploaded to streaming services any day now.
And I do have a book on the horizon, tentatively named “Your Big Self.” I hope to bring clarity to what people mean when they talk about a true self, higher self, unique self, local self, etc. It will probably be in the same kind of picture-book style.
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About the Author
Roshana Ariel is a writer, editor, and musician who weaves wonder into everyday life. She’s the author of “Merry Christmas, Cosmos,” a holiday book for families that blends science, sacred storytelling, and a sense of belonging in the cosmos.
Her life’s path has taken her from playing in bands and as a solo performer across the United States, to working as a radio announcer, and eventually to journalism, where she worked her way up to managing editor at a daily newspaper.
Now living in North Carolina, she performs regularly at her local Unity fellowship and creates memes, meditations, and music that celebrate conscious living and our shared origins in a vast, unfolding universe—all in service to Goodness, Truth, and Beauty.
https://roshanawrites.medium.com/
Chapter 2 Now Live!
The next chapter of my YA fantasy Christmas novel Frost is now live on Wattpad. I hope you all enjoy it and follow for updates on the next chapter.
New Chapter in Ya Santa Story on Wattpad
Hello everyone! Chapter 1 is now live on Wattpad of my YA Santa and Krampus story Frost. I hope you’ll give it a read and enjoy.
Newsletter: Happy Thanksgiving 2025!
Happy Thanksgiving! From my family to yours, for those of your who celebrate the holiday season, may you all have a fun, safe, and relaxing holiday.
This month’s recommended reading is a book I thoroughly enjoyed reading recently, from an author who has been such an inspiration in the indie author space and has a fantastic voice that builds worlds that feel both within our grasp and yet magically transportive as well. That book is author Kristen Martin’s “All We Keep Hidden.” You can read my full review and find the link to purchase your copy here:
As a special thank you for all your support, my book Identity is having a special Thanksgiving sale, marked down to just $1.99 on sites like Kobo, Apple Books, and so much more. Use the following link to find your retailer and grab this book while the deal lasts. This price lasts from November 27th, 2025 to November 29th, 2025, so if you love spooky horror thrillers with serial killers and a private detective with his back against the wall, be sure to grab your copy today.
Also starting December 8th, I will have four books be part of the Smashwords/Draft2Digital End of Year sale. All 4 books will be marked down by 50%, This is a chance to get my book, along with books from many other great authors, at a promotional discount.
You can find the promo here: http://smashwords.com/sale
If you wouldn’t mind lending a hand to me and the other indie authors taking part in this sale, you can share this promo with your friends and family. Just forward this email to anyone who would love a chance to find their next favorite book!
Thank you for your help and support!
Happy reading!
GUEST BLOG POST: Freelance Writing: How College Students Can Turn Words Into Work By Marcie Sullivan
Image: Freepik
Freelance Writing: How College Students Can Turn Words Into Work
Writing has quietly become one of the most adaptable freelance careers for college students and recent grads. You don’t need a fancy office, expensive gear, or years of experience — just clarity, consistency, and a laptop. Whether it’s content writing, blogging, ghostwriting, or UX copy, the field rewards creativity and curiosity.
Core Points
- Freelance writing lets students earn while learning, often with minimal startup costs.
- Popular paths include content writing, ghostwriting, editing, social media copy.
- Essential tools include grammar checkers, portfolio sites, and payment platforms.
- Building a reputation requires consistency and responsiveness.
- Consider forming an LLC for credibility and legal protection.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need a degree to start writing professionally?
No — portfolios beat diplomas in this industry. Build samples on platforms like Medium or Substack.
Q2: What should I charge as a beginner?
Start with $0.05–$0.10 per word or per-project pricing on marketplaces like Upwork.
Q3: How can I get clients fast?
Pitch via LinkedIn, use job boards like ProBlogger, and build an SEO-optimized writer profile.
Q4: Should I niche down early?
Yes — specializing (e.g., sustainability, SaaS, or education) boosts trust and rates.
Q5: How do I stay organized?
Use free tools like Notion or Trello for task management.
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Why Writing Works as a Student Side Career
Unlike gig jobs or retail work, freelance writing compounds in value. Each article is a potential reference, backlink, or resume piece. The flexibility lets students:
- Work from anywhere (libraries, dorms, cafés).
- Adjust schedules around exams.
- Turn part-time work into full-time careers after graduation.
And unlike other jobs, writing scales with skill — better words bring better clients.
Building a Freelance Writing Career From Scratch
- Identify Your Interest Area → Start with topics you know (tech, travel, psychology).
- Create 3–5 Writing Samples → Post them on Medium or your blog.
- Build a Simple Portfolio Website → Use Carrd or WordPress.
- Set Up Professional Tools
- Payment: PayPal, Wise
- Proofreading: Grammarly
- Document sharing: Google Docs
- Payment: PayPal, Wise
- Start Pitching Clients → Personalize outreach emails and include your best samples.
- Track Income and Deadlines → Use spreadsheets or free project trackers.
Before You Take Your First Client
✅ Have at least two polished writing samples
✅ Know your rate (per word or per project)
✅ Set up a professional email
✅ Create a Google Drive folder for client work
✅ Confirm how you’ll get paid (and when)
✅ Read the client’s brief carefully
✅ Keep communication clear and friendly
Establishing an LLC
Establishing a business structure gives freelance writers legitimacy and protection. Forming an LLC can separate personal assets from business income, simplify taxes, and boost your professional image when dealing with clients. Filing fees differ by state, and online formation services like zenbusiness.com providers offer customizable registration packages to make setup simple and affordable.
Common Writing Niches and Average Entry Rates
| Niche | Typical Client Type | Average Starting Rate | Long-Term Growth Potential |
| Tech/SaaS | Startups, agencies | $0.08–$0.12 per word | High (retainer potential) |
| Lifestyle/Health | Blogs, brands | $0.05–$0.10 per word | Moderate |
| Finance/Business | Fintech, education sites | $0.10–$0.15 per word | High |
| Academic Editing | Students, journals | $20–$40 per hour | Steady |
| UX/Product Copy | Apps, software companies | $50–$150 per project | High |
Featured Product: Grammarly
Even professional writers rely on proofreading and editing software. Grammarly helps refine tone, clarity, and consistency — a must-have for freelancers handling multiple clients at once. Use it alongside style guides or editing frameworks for clean, confident delivery.
Freelance writing isn’t just a side hustle — it’s a foundation for creative independence. With focus, structure, and a bit of persistence, college students can turn their curiosity into cash and their skills into sustainable careers. Writing is one of the few jobs where learning and earning evolve together — and that’s a pretty smart start.
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Interview with Author Sienna Ross
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’m a 55-year-old with a 35-year career in sales, life coaching, and building and leading teams. Writing has been a passion of mine since childhood, and only now have I found the courage to publish my first book.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
I was inspired to write my book by my friend’s and my own life experiences and the challenges I’ve overcome along the way. Writing has always been a way for me to process emotions and share stories, and I wanted to turn that into something that could resonate with and hopefully empower others.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The main message is that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a chance to start over and find your way to well-being.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I was drawn to this genre because the subject of physical and emotional abuse in relationships remains relevant year after year and many people are stuck in unhappy life.
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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I would ask her how she managed to rise up again and again after everything she went through, because that strength truly inspires me.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
TikTok
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Be brave and trust your story and yourself!
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I’m currently waiting for the audiobook version of Not Here Anymore to be released, and there will definitely be a sequel to this first book — with more books to come in the future.
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About the Author
Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.
My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.
I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose
If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.
Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.
My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.
Book is available from https://www.amazon.com/Not-Here-Anymore-Sienna-Ross/dp/B0FLF3FVDJ
My instagram page is https://www.instagram.com/siennarossauthor/#
A Simple Job by Kelly Kenyon Review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
In the novel A Simple Job, a man desperate for a job to support his family finds himself on a cross-country road trip, doing new jobs and getting involved in a secret society.
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The Synopsis
Eli Asher is in hot water. He’s not sure which one is adding up faster, the lies he’s told his wife or the past due notices they are getting. He needs a job, a good job with benefits so he can take care of his family. He thinks he has one, but loses it to a member of some secret society that he wants no part of, until his hot water starts to boil and he has no choice but to take a leap of faith. That leap takes him away from his family and on a cross country adventure where he does a series of simple jobs, working with some incredible people. He learns more about what really matters every step of the way adding depth and breadth to his understanding of himself and the world, transforming his very life. This is an easy read that will leave you feeling good and glad you spent the time, so go a head and click the buy now button.
The Review
This was such an engaging and thoughtful read. The author did a fantastic job crafting a relatable and memorable narrative that will resonate with so many people worldwide. Still, especially in the United States, in the economy we are living through right now. The unique difficulties facing so many families right now, from lost jobs and poor prices to health pandemics and much more, the author touches upon some strong themes and balances this out with a unique and fun narrative that will drive the reader forward.
The heart of this story is character development, with protagonist Eli and his family becoming the POV that will resonate powerfully with the overall narrative. The lessons Eli learns along the way showcase the need to get rid of our prejudices and judgements of other people, learn to accept others, and be open to helping one another in life overall, making Eli and his family the everyman level of character growth.
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The Verdict
The author makes a good point in this book that no one is all villain, all hero, or all good, but understanding one another is the best way forward for us all. In that tone, author Kelly Kenyon’s “A Simple Job” is a must-read adventure and genre fiction novel. The heart and the passion for this subject matter come through with ease in this story, and the relatability of the characters will keep readers invested until the book’s final chapter. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
Making Waves: We Made Two Exclusive Lists on FeedSpot!
Hi everyone, I just wanted to share some fun news. Recently I found out that my website was listed on FeedSpot on two different book blogger lists. The first is the Top 25 California Book Blogs and Websites, which we placed in the Top 10 of that list, and the second list was the 50 Best Cozy Mystery Book Blogs and Websites, which we placed in the Top 20 of that list. If you could go like and share those lists, I would truly appreciate it, and thank you to all the readers who come to my site and share the reviews I post here. I hope you guys will subscribe and share my website if you haven’t already. Thank you all, and thank you FeedSpot.
