Interview with Erynne Byrd

Author of A Compilation of Female Truth

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am originally from Georgia but I now live in the Seattle area where I work in the US Navy.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

The Navy. I was transferred to the Seattle area to work on board USS Mom sen which is a ship that is home ported in Everett,WA.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

I have always been a writer. I can remember writing because I was very shy and didn’t really speak publicly until I was around eight years old. It was my voice. I decided to write my first book and publish it while I was on deployment which came with its challenges but the idea of serving my country while working hard to achieve my own personal goal was worth it all.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My book is for everyone. It may appeal more to women because that is the perspective I may be speaking from but we have all experienced hurt, loss, love and everything in between. A Compilation of Female Truth is a moment for my vulnerability to allow you to feel safe enough to share your journey. It is a book that makes you feel seen and I hope make you feel less alone.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Everyone who is overcoming. Anyone who has loved and ALL that love to read!

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I learned the hard work that really went into self-publishing. I found that outsourcing was important as well. Also, cover creation is not as easy as it seems. The joy in it all is that it was still possible! I never gave up and you shouldn’t either!

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Go for it! Complete it! Stop holding yourself back. I would just tell my previous self that I am worthy of the success I wished to have.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

I would like to reach as many as possible. I like this book to reach whoever needs it right when they need it!

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

I think the larger challenge has been staying consistent with marketing. It’s been a year since it’s been published and sales have slowed a bit. So maintaining sales has been a challenge but my goal going into this next year is to find ways to re brand.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

I would say my biggest strength was the writing. I knew what I had to say and who I wanted to reach so making sure it happened through my words was a great strength for me.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

Marketing. I am still figuring out what works for me in terms of promoting my work and uping sales.

When do you think you will write your next book?

My goal is May 2020. I have been working on some pieces and wanted to write about something a bit different from my first book so I can show the different sides of my writing as well as myself.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

Self-published!