In the world of storytelling, few journeys are as inspiring as that of Sandra Lynn Williamson, the driving force behind SLW Books. After taking a lengthy break from writing, Sandra rediscovered her passion for storytelling and set out to connect directly with readers through her own platform. Her determination to share her narratives—crafted with care and signed with love—reveals a profound commitment to both her craft and her audience. In this interview, Sandra shares her experiences navigating the ups and downs of the publishing industry, the importance of mental health in creative pursuits, and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of books. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, and discover the wisdom she offers to aspiring authors facing their own challenges.
1. What inspired you to start SLW Books, and how does your passion for storytelling drive your work?
I started my website slwbooks so I could reach the public directly with my stories. I sell hardback and paperback books that I autograph for the readers.
2. Can you share a bit about your journey to becoming a published author and the motivations behind your writing?
My journey to becoming a published author started in 2006. I wrote Leather and Lace, and it was published by the publishing house, Ellora’s Cave in eBook and paperback. I stopped writing for a period of about 13 years. But I came back to it because I love storytelling, which is what motivates me. I want to give my best to the reader.
3. What have been the most significant challenges you’ve faced in marketing your books, and how have you addressed them?
Marketing is challenging period. I’ve tried everything to get my books out there. It’s a process. I’m on all social media from TikTok to Twitter or X, to Threads. I have a YouTube channel, though I don’t download much anymore. I have Instagram as well. But reaching readers is very challenging and I’m afraid it’s something I’m still working on daily.
4. How do you stay motivated and maintain your mental health while managing the ups and downs of the publishing industry?
I maintain my mental health by giving myself plenty of writing breaks. If I’m not feeling it that day, I do something else. I watch movies with my mom, I cook or bake, I read. Taking a mental health day or even a few hours can make a world of difference.
5. What role do you believe books and storytelling play in connecting with readers and making an impact?
The role I believe books and storytelling play in connecting with readers and making an impact is huge. As a writer, I can take my reader anywhere and my goal is to make that journey as thrilling and emotional as possible. I want them to feel like they’re on an emotional rollercoaster with a more than satisfying ending that rocks their world.
6. Can you describe a moment or experience that reaffirmed your decision to pursue a career in writing and publishing?
What reaffirmed my decision to pursue my writing career? Well…the stories in my head won’t allow me to give up. I want to take my readers on a journey and when I get positive feedback and great reviews, it feeds that desire.
7. How do you handle writer’s block or creative setbacks, and what strategies help you overcome them?
How do I overcome writer’s block? I mentioned earlier taking plenty of breaks. I just happened to take a 13 year break due to life circumstances and my mental health. But the desire to tell stories steered me back to my publishing path.
8. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are struggling with getting their work noticed or building their audience?
I would tell a struggling author trying to get their work out there and build an audience to not give up. I’m currently in that situation and it’s terribly frustrating but I won’t give up this time. I’m going to build my backlist of published books and keep on keeping on.
9. How do you balance your personal life with the demands of running a business and being an author?
I balance my personal life with being an author by not letting it overwhelm me. I step back if I need to. If I run into a particular problem, I may have to shut my computer down for the day and come back to it the next morning. I try to make it all as stress free as possible but trying to run marketing, social media, create ads, and write, plus taking care of my mother and myself, well, it can be overwhelming. Like I said, it’s all about moderation and taking breaks.
10. What self-care practices do you find essential for managing stress and staying grounded in your work?
Self-care is so important. Trying to get the right amount of sleep helps. I have chronic insomnia, so I usually read at bedtime. Sometimes, if I’m able to stay awake that long, I meet up with my TikTok friends who do writing/reading sprints. It makes writing fun and competitive, even though it’s only with yourself, trying to get or beat that daily word count. It may sound stressful but doing it with friends is fun and relaxing. Eating right helps, though I’m terrible at that.
11. Can you share any stories of reader feedback that have been particularly meaningful or inspiring for you?
Writer friends on TikTok have given me wonderful feedback and it has been incredibly inspiring. I really look up to these authors and they have become great friends.
12. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned throughout your writing and publishing journey?
Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my writing journey have been to hang in there and to stay positive no matter what comes my way. I’ve learned formatting with software, of course, and am learning to market my work, no matter how uncomfortable it makes me. I’m stepping outside my comfort zone on TikTok and social media, trying to reach readers. It’s all a learning process but I must remember to give myself a little credit for juggling it all. That’s probably the hardest lesson I’ve learned. That I must give myself a little credit for how far I’ve come on this journey.
13. How do you envision the future of SLW Books, and what goals do you have for your business?
How do I envision the future of SLW Books and what goals do I have for my business? Well, I’d like to earn enough to get an LLC, and maybe eventually assist other beginning authors in their journey the way others have helped me.
14. What message would you like to share with other women who are pursuing their creative passions despite facing challenges?
The message I’d like to share with other women who are pursuing their creative passions despite facing challenges is to not give up on yourself and seek to better yourself as much as possible. Get on the internet, do research, go to seminars and conferences, take classes, learn your trade. Never give up on pursuing your dream.
15. How do you continue to grow and evolve as a writer and business owner, and what keeps you inspired?
I continue to grow and evolve as a writer and business owner by keeping an open mind and realizing that there’s something new to learn every day, and by absorbing the advice and knowledge of friends and mentors.
