Sylvia: Welcome, Cassidy. Please give our readers an introduction of yourself and a little about your book.

Cassidy: Thank you. I am an educator and librarian by trade. I’m a strong proponent for outreach and ministry. On a lighter note, I’m a bookworm who loves to travel and spend time with my family and friends.

I recently published my first book, which is a 21-day devotional. It includes scripture references, observations, and insights. Each daily entry gives the reader suggestions for how to apply the lessons to their lives. The entry ends with a prayer.

 


Sylvia: I really enjoy devotionals. I’ll have to check yours out. So, what inspired you to write your first book?

Cassidy: WeIl, I was experiencing an especially difficult year in 2018. I was in a place of needing to find peace as I healed. I wanted to help others who may have been taking a similar journey. I composed several blogs that I eventually combined into a devotional. In July 2020, I released the collection of writings as my first book, Finding Peace During the Healing Process: A 21-Day Devotional.


Sylvia: So inspirational! Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Cassidy: Yes, this devotional is for anyone who is crying out to the Lord after suffering terrible loss. Its purpose is to encourage them to wait on God’s promises and endure the times to come. It reiterates believing in God to use the times of great pain as a way to perfect their faith.


Sylvia: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Cassidy: The hardest part for me is creating conflict in the story in such a way that it’s not a rehash of something the reader has already read. I do not like clichés. I avoid tropes, too.


Sylvia: How did you come up with the idea for this book?

Cassidy: My writing ministry grew from a desire to strengthen and empower others. I began my first blog, “Cross View,” in 2009 to reach my readership.


Sylvia: Oh really. I started my first blog in 2009 as well. It is a lifestyle blog and doing quite well. How do you combat writer’s block?

Cassidy: I try to combat writer’s block by not forcing myself to create. I will put the story down and come back to it. Another strategy I use is writing a serious piece and a comedic piece within the same time frame. When I come to an impasse with the serious piece, I’ll alleviate my frustration by engrossing myself in the comedic piece.


Sylvia: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Cassidy: My advice for other writers is to do your research but draw from experience as well. Our experiences add authenticity and relatability to our work. Don’t be surprised if you have multiple drafts or completely revamp your plot. Our work grows with us. Something we were satisfied with five years ago may be unacceptable to us now. Take pride in the process.


Sylvia: I agree with your advice. I think a combination of research and experience can really draw your target readers in. What marketing techniques have you used to sell your books and which ones have been most successful?

Cassidy: I have worked with public relations and marketing specialists. I have paid for ads in several newspapers and magazines. I am starting to receive more exposure through blog features and live interviews. I believe those forms of marketing have been the most success as of late.


Sylvia: Yes, I agree! I’ve interviewed approximately 200 new authors here. Why should we buy your book?

Cassidy: People should purchase my book because it’s designed for people with tight schedules and meets their needs as something succinct yet impactful. It’s perfect for starting a day strong with insight and clarity; it’s “small but mighty.”


Sylvia: Is there a special place that you prefer when you write?

Cassidy: I actually prefer to write in my car. I will drive to my neighborhood park, and I’ll write in my car. If the weather is nice, I’ll sit on one of the park benches, preferably near the lake.


Sylvia: What projects are you currently working on?

Cassidy: Currently, I am working on an instructional manual for book coaching new authors, a creative works collection, a contemporary Christian novel, a sci-fi/fantasy novel, and my second devotional. They are all scheduled to be released over the course of the next three years.


Sylvia: Wow, you are busy! What is your POWER WORD? Why this word?

Cassidy: My power word is “encourage.” I believe we should always add to the people and situations around us; therefore, if I cannot do anything else, I can give encouragement.


Sylvia: I love that word. Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule.

Cassidy: It was my pleasure, and I appreciate the opportunity.


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