Call For Help

Hello Vocal family,

I come before you today, 26 years old, humbled, scared and a little lost.

There have been many times in my life where I feel as though I’ve been at a crossroads, but this is the first that I feel genuinely stuck in my tracks with no idea what to do or where to go next. I’m torn between settling for jobs I know I don’t want all for the sake of a promised paycheque, or persevering past the fear and continuing towards my dreams, despite the odds and not knowing exactly how to get there.

I’ve always loved to write. Clearly, otherwise why would I have joined this special community?

I know there’s millions of people out there with a knack for writing, even an undeniable talent. I can’t say for certain whether or not I’m one of them, but I would like to believe that at the very least, my impenetrable and ceaseless love for writing and world building will guide me towards where I need to be.

I published a book entitled When June Met July back in 2023. While I’m very proud of myself, I must also admit, I’m not. I suppose I’m way too hard on myself, just as my mother likes to tell me, but for some reason, I have a difficult time celebrating any personal accomplishment unless it’s a public sensation in one way or another. Don’t get me wrong, the book received five star reviews and other forms of recognition. I’m proud of the book, just not of myself. Does that sound as strange as it feels? I assisted self-published that novel. I learned a lot. I grew. My friends and family hugged and congratulated me. The book sits on my nightstand now.

I’m currently writing another one. A whole new idea, entirely new territory. Actually, about a year ago I placed in a challenge where I submit a small excerpt from the book. That was very encouraging :) It was entitled, “Tonight for Dinner, We’ll be Serving Revenge.”

I must admit, I don’t personally know anyone else who has published a book, especially not via traditional publishing. But I would like to try. As previously stated, I’m not exactly sure where to turn. I’m doing all the research I can and reaching out to as many people as possible. I guess this post is me trying to ensure that I leave no stone unturned.

So, humbled and thankfully still hopeful, I ask my fellow vocal community members for any words of wisdom that you feel compelled or willing to give, any piece of advice, any direction to turn or even any links to click on. If anyone has any experience with traditional publishing they would be willing to discuss, I would be incredibly grateful. If anyone knows an agent that they think may be interested in a suspenseful, sci-fi thriller/ drama, I would overjoyed to know their name!

If you’ve made it this far, I just want to say thank you. Really. I know this isn’t a very stimulating peace to read, but truthfully, it was one I really really needed to write.

My 20s have been a lot more confusing and stressful than I thought they would be, but I’m trying to keep the faith, keep my eyes and heart open and do everything I can to find my way. One thing is for sure though — it has been a privilege to be a part of this community. From reading so many wondrous pieces, to meeting equally as wondrous people, I’m very glad I stumbled upon the vocal website on that random Tuesday.

Thank you for your time and any help given <3

Mikayla