I really love that you're switching your focus to be just ✨ ENJOYING ✨ the writing. That is so important! And I really love how you discussed having and idealized version of what being a full-time writer would look like vs. the practicalities of it!! There's a lot of pressure and comparisonitis that happens with putting videos out about your writing and having an authortube channel. It's so exciting to have people pumped for your books and wanting them to come out, but there's some part of it that can suck the joy of learning how to write/revise/edit/market when a deadline is being imposed by others. I think a similar thing is happening when we're being told HOW to publish (especially from an indie perspective, where fast releasing has been hugely touted for years now). Getting to hear and watch your progression as you've embraced your ~creative self~ and not just your ~writer self~ has been seriously so wonderful. Your covers look FREAKING AWESOME. From Princess to Queen is giving me all the feels and I love the dimensionality to all of them! They feel alive! I'm just so excited for all the fun stuff you have going on in the future, writing wise, cover wise, and other creative design wise! CONGRATS BROOKE. (Also seeing Abbey in the background walking around was ADORABLE.)
Awww thanks so much for your support! I've clued you in on missing the joy of the craft, and I'm excited to find the joy in writing again! And it's funny you said that my covers look "alive" cause that's what my brother said about them too! :)
I think we forget sometimes that not everything we enjoy doing has to be a hussle. Writing doesn't have to be strictly for the purpose of getting published and making money. I personally enjoy writing as a hobby and I have no intention of publishing anything. The looks I get when I say that to people is so weird to me. My dad even asked "What's the point of writing then if you're not going to get it published?" and all I can think of is, why do we have to put a dollar sign on anything we do that makes us happy? I'm glad you found something that makes you happy! Cover design seems so interesting and I would love to see more content about it!
Brooke!! Those covers are AMAZING!!!!!! And you have to do what's right for you and if making writing a hobby for now (or forever) makes you happy, then it's absolutely the right decision. And your whole body lit up when talking about the covers! This is so exciting!! And I totally get the "getting lost in it and forgetting to eat" aspect of making book covers lol! When I was re-doing my Riser covers, I'd look up at the clock and freaking 7 hours had gone by hahahaha!! And with drafting I feel every second lol! Editing though, I can lose time and do it for hours. But drafting?!! Oof. It really can be difficult at times hahaha!!
I could tell too when editing how animated I was talking about the covers! And isn't it crazy how time flies when creating book covers?? I truly love doing this and can't wait to get better with each new project :)
Thanks for sharing! It’s really brave of you to be so honest (to us and to yourself) about stepping away from an old dream that you outgrew. I think the difference between the hobby writers and the full-time writers is that the latter loves not only the flowy parts of writing but the hard parts too. Like, THOSE chorey aspects of writing are still hard and difficult and annoying and overwhelming and so exhausting but they still love them. Love the process. They just cannot not write, for the rest of their lives and in order to do so: makes a living out of it. We just have to really soul search ourselves and decide if the love for the craft outweighs the “it’s a chore” feelings and whether or not it’s enough to have it be “just” a hobby No matter what anyone else thinks.
This is soooo dope! Love seeing people embrace creativity as a whole!!!! Brooke, I'm so frigging proud of you and happy for you!!!! Lol also I do love how now all the Oklahoma girls are like, "Yep, we don't just write, we create!" You got this! Cannot wait to start hitting you up like, "Brooke, I got a deposit for a 6 book series, you game?" Lol So glad you found something that makes you happy and gives you joy. That is what is most important and Im glad you're showcasing that on your channel. So many new authortubers are so young and glamorize that over productivity not realizing how detrimental it can be. It's been refreshing to see the "oldhead" ATs have this much needed conversation!
When you said you saw book covers you loved and thought "could I?" That's exactly how I got into writing! I used to read fanfics (not like the cringy lovey-dovey kinds lol more plot focused and serious tones) and I loved it so one day I thought, "I could try writing one." And I was only going to make one but I ended up releasing a handful of fanfics and people actually really liked it! So, after a year I kinda floated away from that because I wanted to make my own story with my own characters so I could eventually share with a broader audience. And that's where I've been the past 5 or so years.. life got in the way as I grew up lol but still working towards my series! The plot has gotten deeper over the years so that's a plus haha
Totally related to getting back to enjoying writing! And girl, THOSE COVERS! OMG, beautiful! I've also recently fallen into cover design (very randomly actually) and I'm loving it (and I totally understand the addictiveness of it, its like a puzzle and you completely just dive right in to "solving" it)! Also I'm so excited to see your videos again because I am such a stan and love your videos!
Honestly, I've needed this video. Ever since I was a kid, people complimented my writing (obviously I wasn't great. Just showing early signs of talent, I think) and expected me to be a writer. But I felt overwhelmed and that I had to publish something by twenty. It was a few months ago that I realized I might not actually enjoy writing as much as I used to. I'm not gonna stop writing, and I want to publish something one day, but I'm not going to be actively working towards that goal for another few years at least, and I'm going to focus more on my other less stressful (at least in the long-term sense) creative endeavors, and let High School be that much less stressful.
It’s hard to ask our art to support us. I think it’s important to wrestle with this - and maybe to embrace that our passions can be just that, our passion. I have 4 (4!) kids - the amount of money I’d have to make to replace a full time job is just astronomically high. I love that you’re being so honest and transparent. More creatives need that! I took all of March off myself and it really helps to be able to walk away bc it’s not your job.
Your book covers are awesome! I was in the same slump as you when it came to writing. Now I'm just focusing on enjoying the writing process rather than putting so much pressure and stress on myself with unrealistic writing goals. And weirdly enough, my writing has improved so much! Glad to hear that you've found your creative outlet - look forward to seeing more :)
I'm so glad I came across this video, I really don't think enough authors or writers talk about this. Yes, writing and publishing is a business, and can be treated as such, but businesses are very stressful and takes a lot of time out of your day, especially when you work full time. You don't get to sit around and write all day, your running a business too. I already made the decision awhile ago, not to stress myself out when comes to writing and publish when I want too. I have many drafts and a couple series I'm working on, and it's nice not having to worry about anyone pressing me to finish since I'm not published yet. And it's nice, I can see all the work and progress I've done and how my writing improved over last two years. I personally don't want be a full-time writer, and I'm making plans for the future so I can support myself, but also be able enjoy my life. More people really need take a step back and imagine, what do they really want out of life, and then go from their with setting up their ideal life. Thanks for a great video!
i so feel this! and i love how upfront and forthright you are about being in tune with your own needs around how you position your writing! i know the wisdom is to like "treat writing like a job" but man... i have a job? writing is so much more fulfilling for me when it's a hobby and a passion but i don't have to hang things like paying my bills on it. do i want to write and publish? absolutely but i don't plan on giving up my day job while i do it because i never want writing to become something i'm resentful of doing
I love that you have found your passion! Those covers look amazing. Especially since designing is new for you! I actually really love the first one. It’s giving me ghost vibes haha.
“Witches be crazy” 😂 That’s hilarious! I love these covers! I think the second ones my favorite but the colorful light streaming in from the stain glass window in the third cover is absolutely stunning!!
I know I'm a little late to the party, but I LOVE that you're going down a path that best works for you! also absolutely thrilled to see more book cover videos!
Giiirrrrrl! I feel this! I hate the idea of making my writing my job because I go through long spouts of not wanting to write and then dive fully into writing so much it’s all I do. I feel like to be successful as an indie author you have to publish book after book and that just sounds stressful 😅 Love that you’re getting into cover design! Having creative outlets is key to fueling yourself as a creative. I’ve found switching things up (cover design, illustration, writing) is what keeps me going and loving what I do. After all, loving what you do is the most important part. The rest will fall into place later.
I love this so much, Brooke! I too reached a point with writing where I felt like I wasn't having fun and the reality of "author life" didn't seem so glamorous when I realized what it realistically entailed in the day to day, as well as the struggle to make a sustainable income. When I mentally made the decision, like you, to write for fun and aim towards publishing as an achievement I'd love to reach and less of a "must do," I felt so free again! (And hey, if I happen to write a dope best seller that makes me millions, I won't resist it ;) But if I don't, that's okay too! Haha) I hope you continue to follow your heart, wherever it goes, and I can't wait to reach your writing one day! No matter how long it takes. :)
Awwwwww, dear Brooke (as one a bit older) I have to say, you're so young still, there is absolute no shame in trying new things. Actually trying new things is good, very good, look how much joy it brings you! And honestly, for the first 3 projects they look good actually! (I have a design background too!) And my other thought, now you've been through the writing process yourself you can better understand your future clients, which can only be a big plus me thinks! You understand now how precious a book baby is and your covers can really help to finish up someone's book. I know from other author tubers how a great design can be so appreciated. So keep that in mind if one day you have a client that's picky or other things don't work out the way you want them too. Also, tip to you, setting this up as a business takes more then just design skills, so invest time and what have you in that too, take yourself seriously in this, even if you at this point are still only starting out. Congrats, and as a subby of yours I'm excited to see you walk this new road. Go you! xxx
First of all, I just want to say that I love the Tiana background on your computer and the Aladdin genie lamp. Second, good for you! It’s not easy to pivot and be honest about what’s working for you. I’m glad you figured it out before going too deep with writing. Last year I took Regina Wamba’s Photoshop course and it changed my life. I love design too and can do it for hours on end, lol. I haven’t had the chance to really play with covers but hopefully I will. As you said, writing as a business is a lot of work and I’m on deadline every week it seems. I really love all the covers (I think I already saw two of them on Saturday)! ♥️ I totally want that first one. No lie. It looks fantasy like and would fit some story I’m writing. I can’t wait to see the turn your channel makes. I’m rooting for you and I can’t wait to see more of your covers!
Those covers are amazing! Cover design is something I've always wanted to try but didn't know where to start. Mind sharing the courses you took/are taking for it? Can't wait to see what you accomplish on this new journey!
You hit all the reasons why I am beginning to see writing as a fun hobby. I have self-published a book as well around 2011 or 2012. My dream since childhood was to write, but lately, I have been working on a poetry podcast. If I happen to publish a book it will more than likely be curated poems or maybe I won't publish at all. I have great ideas for poetry book covers and even graphic comics is something I may want to learn as well. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!
Brooke I am so happy for you! It is an amazing thing to discover your true passion. Those covers are nothing short of stunning. From Princess to Queen especially is OMG FABULOUS! The background castle, the ethereal clouds, the beautiful blue tones. Very Brooke. Love love love them! I especially love how you light up when you talk about cover design. Your energy was poppin! And so infectious! Which is wonderful. It's so cool that you are keeping writing in your life, but just as a hobby. If it doesn't make your heart sing, then you are wise in putting your time and energy into those creative outlets that do make you want to stay up all night - like those beautiful covers! I wish you so much luck and send so many congratulations. I can't wait to see your vlog on how you do the designs! And all the other creative design content you put out there. xo
Brooke I admire you! Admitting to yourself (and the world) that a life long dream is not actually for you and really your passions lie elsewhere is so brave. Have fun designing ALL the covers ✨ and I will still look forward to buying Project New Orleans some day 😁
Hi Brooke, I totally feel you. Since I discovered AuthorTube, I just fell out of love with the actual process. I have always enjoyed writing, coming up with ideas, but anytime people talked about goals, word counts and money, I would click out of the video. All I want is the fun, and working full time as a teacher is as important to me as writing. I understand those who want to be full time authors, but that’s just not for me. I love your videos and you always put a smile on my face, so thank you.
I love the third cover! And I'm so happy you're now happier with this creative direction and not forcing yourself to write full time if it doesn't bring you joy. The faint text is called a "watermark."
Ooh, I love all 3 covers! They are fantastic! I love that you have found your passion again! I think our best work comes when we are excited about our efforts, so hooray for making these decisions!
I also do and love book cover designing/selling, while publishing books. And you made an interesting point about how there are some things about the process that is just so stressful it can take the enjoyment out of writing. I hope you find your mojo again, and you do whatever feels right for you and welcome to the book cover gang. I am wishing you much success and happiness.
Love this Brooke! It's so important to explore our passions because we never know where they might lead. I think a lot of us try to box ourselves into one title (writer, singer, etc.) - especially if we've held on to a dream for a long time. But we forget that writers can also be designers. Writers can also be painters. Singers can also be songwriters. Actors can also be directors. I think this shifting and exploration is just part of being a creative person. P.S. Those covers are absolutely gorgeous!
I love the book covers you've created! I cannot believe you just started doing this because they look seriously legit. I fully support you being happily creative. Good on you for being able to reimagine your dreams. You got guts lady. I'm so excited for you and your new passion! Looking forward to all of your future bookish content.
You gotta do what you feel is best for you! I am still here and I am still watching! Good luck Brooke! I just changed my whole channel this year as well so I can relate to a degree.
It's really admirable that you took a deep look into your journey and decided to change your path. It's so hard to do! Writing should be a joy and if the business side was sucking the joy out of it, why do it? I love your covers! They are so beautiful and I can see why you're finding joy in their creation. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us!
Yup yup! I can relate on the writing front. I've been switching focus too. As for me, I'm working on improving my art. I've been curious about cover design though. Good luck on your creative journey and may the books be you too! :P
I'm glad to see you moving back towards the pure enjoyment of writing. To make a leap to try something new is great as well. Book cover design really shows that you love books. You enjoy writing them, reading them. Now design their outside.
It's sometimes hard to let go of a dream because we've wanted it so long it's hard to justify to ourselves to stop. We all come to it in our own time. The saying about ever working a day in your life is not about noting having a job, it's finding something you love doing so it's doesn't feel like work. I'm glad you found what you are loving to do. You're Style is very Urban Fantasy and Romance. Good luck and I'd love to see what you do with the "Cover" Vlog.
Dang girl! Those are awesome!!! Follow your heart with whatever u choose. And dont ever think u can only do just one or two things. Learn everything. Try everything. Have fun and create!!!
This is so cool!! I'm with you on the thumbnails - why is making them so fun? 😂Your book covers look fantastic and your enthusiasm is off the charts so yeah. I think this is gonna be awesome. SUPER excited for cover creation vlogs! I've taken a few Skillshare courses and really enjoyed them - I'll have to check out Martina's!
I have found myself comparing my writing path to others and feeling inferior but a while ago I decided that if writing was my hobby I was still an Author. Many big name authors did and do other things. The majority of published authors have other businesses or paycheck jobs but don't put it out there in the public. I have set my writing hobby in my mind as how I tell stories that are meant to impact not just entertain. It is not a source of income to cover my life. I want it to cover the expenses of editing, cover art, marketing. If the fiction and nonfiction drive traffic to my website where my other business is, great but the labor of writing is for my enjoyment, growth and hopefully to impact others so they think about something differently. I think your looking at cover art or support for authors is just great. Write when the story won't let you go, otherwise follow your bliss.
OMG Brooke those covers are absolutely amazing! I love them and you are really good. I'm so happy that you found your happy again in a new and fun creative way. I can't wait until you start taking clients because I may have a few book covers I need lol. I wasn't blessed with those kinds of artistic capabilities so I am definitely looking. I can't wat for your video walk through of the process and to just see your videos pop up again in my notifications because I missed you and your Brooke-ness lol. Glad you're. Take care! ❤❤
Those are awesome book covers! Where did you bought those photos? Good luck with making book covers and writing. It’s always good to find fun in things we do.
Congratulations! Finding your focus, what will bring you joy, is so liberating and empowering. Let writing be your passion project and cover art your joy. What a lovely foundation to build your life upon.
Ah, I was just thinking about you last night. I missed you! I'm so glad that you found a goal to pursue. You do you Brooke! I personally write stories just to have fun. If I ever decide to have my writing read by others, I'll just post on one of the many websites or maybe make a blog. I write to have fun, I could never force myself to do it full time.
It is great that you are allowing yourself to breathe and admit this to yourself and the world. That in itself will help you with whatever endeavors you pursue.
I’ve been feeling that exact same way. It’s really hard for me to keep to a strict schedule with anything, and especially with something I love. It sucks all the fun out of it. I want to enjoy writing, and not have to worry about the business side of things.
GIRL! Focus on the joy of writing, it shouldn't feel horrible to write. I also design book covers and I feel like it's a great creative outlet. I love your designs, you're doing fantastic!!!
Congratulations on finding a new passion and being brave enough to change plans you've had for so long. That's a hard adjustment. Good for you!! Can't wait to see future content.
This is a great idea. Sometimes I take a break from writing for a couple of months and dabble into webcomics. When I come back to writing I have way more passion and energy to put into my projects. Anyways, I'm glad you're still here on youtube :)
It's great to see you excited about being creative again. Those covers are gorgeous and very "Brooke" especially the second one. It gives me live-action Disney vibes, and Disney is so totally you. When you're ready, I think you'll have more business coming your way than you'll know what to do with.
Your book covers look AMAZING, Brooke!! so many feels just looking at them! I’m so happy for you finding a creative outlet that just feels ~right~ and makes you want to pour your heart into it. I can’t wait to see how you grow and enjoy in all your new (and old) creative endeavors 💕
So excited for you, Brooke! I'm so happy you're enjoying book cover design--when you shared the first one, my jaw DROPPED! Yay for fun new things, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes you!🥳💕🎉 Also I think a book cover vlog is such a fun idea--I can't wait!
This is so fantastic, Brooke! It’s awesome seeing you so happy and passionate! I hope returning to writing being fun and starting this new project with covers will bring you so much joy! Thanks for sharing your journey with us! 💜💜💜
I love this new direction. I have a graphic design background so I can’t wait to see your book cover stuff. I also think as much as it’s important to know what you want to do it’s just as important to know what you don’t want to do.
I'm enjoying being on this creative journey with you, Brooke! I am so fascinated by book cover design, so it'll be super interesting to watch you learn and improve your skills. I think you already have an eye for design! So cool.
Those covers are awesome Brooke. And yeah I have felt recently that you've been losing your love for writing. So maybe it isn't what you're meant to do with your life, but just meant to be a hobby. But with how enthusiastic you are about book cover design. I feel this is where your path was supposed to lead. You needed to have those writing struggles so that you could realize this one.
BROOKE. This is so weird, but I know the exact chateau you used for the first book cover! lol But I'm glad that you've found your passion! That's always such a great and exciting feeling. :)
I am so excited for you! I make my own book covers, mainly out of an extremely limited budget, but they're Wattpad grade. I'm still learning, but getting photoshop in a few months will hopefully help. I am really excited for you and glad you've found a new passion you really love.
I’m so excited for you! This is an amazing endeavor and I have no doubt you’ll be successful. Covers like that sell like hotcakes, and they’re so gorgeous! Something tells me I’ll be coming to you for covers in the future!
This is so great! I'm glad you found your true passion! I've also been getting into making book covers! Let me know if you have any skillshare or youtube cover design class recommendations.
I've been listening to Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. In it, she talks about how she didn't want to place the burden of expecting her creativity to financially support her life.... because those expectations killed the joy of writing inspiration. (She still ended up w a ny times bestseller though lol). I've also recently listened to The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. She breaks all people down into 4 groups, based on how they respond to expectations placed on them. I'm the "rebel" type that doesn't do well with any expectations; Inner and outer. That type kinda screams Pantser to me. I've never technically finished a writing project but I can sense that I'm a panster...and not doing do well with expectations means that outlines kill my motivation. I even backed off from my writer's group so I could be free of all expectations. Expecting writing to be a "career" made me way more prone to procrastinate. I've decided to focus on being happy with where I am in life and not feeling like I "need" to be at a certain place with my writing. Whatever writing happens is just fine and once writing is actually fun again it'll probably be better anyways.
Those covers look totally "Brooke enough". In fact, I think we shall now call them . . . Brooke covers. Girl, you know I'm here to support you in whatever you love to do! I think enjoying what you're writing and it not feeling like a chore is super important. That's why my channel focuses mostly on reading vs. writing because I just focus on what I'm enjoying more at the time. I love writing but not when I feel like it's a chore. Also, creating book covers is 100% part of authortube! Some of the indie published authortubers create their own covers (or want to) so you're still doing things that are on brand for your channel. =) I'm also here for "May the books be with you." Also, also, also,
That is so true. Whenever I'm about to write it's turned into a job and is no longer fun when it comes to that. Writing is supposed to be fun Lol totally agree with you. I've been dealing with bad brain fog so that hasn't been quite helpful during Camp NaNo. I have this storyline that's really, really creepy and I can't get myself to write it and it aggravates me lmao 🙃😆 I am outlining so that's a plus! It's nice seeing you! I've taken a break from doing RUclips videos cuz I just didn't have it in me. Sometimes youtubers and also writers and authors need that break 👌 it's healthy.
I used to make fake book covers for fun and for random competitions. It was really fun. We'd get a prompt for a cover, then make a cover and then a random book summary to go with it.
The first 1000 people to use the link will get a free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership: skl.sh/bythebrooke04211
I really love that you're switching your focus to be just ✨ ENJOYING ✨ the writing. That is so important! And I really love how you discussed having and idealized version of what being a full-time writer would look like vs. the practicalities of it!!
There's a lot of pressure and comparisonitis that happens with putting videos out about your writing and having an authortube channel. It's so exciting to have people pumped for your books and wanting them to come out, but there's some part of it that can suck the joy of learning how to write/revise/edit/market when a deadline is being imposed by others. I think a similar thing is happening when we're being told HOW to publish (especially from an indie perspective, where fast releasing has been hugely touted for years now).
Getting to hear and watch your progression as you've embraced your ~creative self~ and not just your ~writer self~ has been seriously so wonderful. Your covers look FREAKING AWESOME. From Princess to Queen is giving me all the feels and I love the dimensionality to all of them! They feel alive! I'm just so excited for all the fun stuff you have going on in the future, writing wise, cover wise, and other creative design wise! CONGRATS BROOKE.
(Also seeing Abbey in the background walking around was ADORABLE.)
Awww thanks so much for your support! I've clued you in on missing the joy of the craft, and I'm excited to find the joy in writing again! And it's funny you said that my covers look "alive" cause that's what my brother said about them too! :)
I think we forget sometimes that not everything we enjoy doing has to be a hussle. Writing doesn't have to be strictly for the purpose of getting published and making money. I personally enjoy writing as a hobby and I have no intention of publishing anything. The looks I get when I say that to people is so weird to me. My dad even asked "What's the point of writing then if you're not going to get it published?" and all I can think of is, why do we have to put a dollar sign on anything we do that makes us happy? I'm glad you found something that makes you happy! Cover design seems so interesting and I would love to see more content about it!
Brooke!! Those covers are AMAZING!!!!!! And you have to do what's right for you and if making writing a hobby for now (or forever) makes you happy, then it's absolutely the right decision. And your whole body lit up when talking about the covers! This is so exciting!! And I totally get the "getting lost in it and forgetting to eat" aspect of making book covers lol! When I was re-doing my Riser covers, I'd look up at the clock and freaking 7 hours had gone by hahahaha!! And with drafting I feel every second lol! Editing though, I can lose time and do it for hours. But drafting?!! Oof. It really can be difficult at times hahaha!!
I could tell too when editing how animated I was talking about the covers! And isn't it crazy how time flies when creating book covers?? I truly love doing this and can't wait to get better with each new project :)
Thanks for sharing! It’s really brave of you to be so honest (to us and to yourself) about stepping away from an old dream that you outgrew.
I think the difference between the hobby writers and the full-time writers is that the latter loves not only the flowy parts of writing but the hard parts too.
Like, THOSE chorey aspects of writing are still hard and difficult and annoying and overwhelming and so exhausting but they still love them. Love the process. They just cannot not write, for the rest of their lives and in order to do so: makes a living out of it.
We just have to really soul search ourselves and decide if the love for the craft outweighs the “it’s a chore” feelings and whether or not it’s enough to have it be “just” a hobby No matter what anyone else thinks.
This is soooo dope! Love seeing people embrace creativity as a whole!!!! Brooke, I'm so frigging proud of you and happy for you!!!! Lol also I do love how now all the Oklahoma girls are like, "Yep, we don't just write, we create!" You got this! Cannot wait to start hitting you up like, "Brooke, I got a deposit for a 6 book series, you game?" Lol
So glad you found something that makes you happy and gives you joy. That is what is most important and Im glad you're showcasing that on your channel. So many new authortubers are so young and glamorize that over productivity not realizing how detrimental it can be. It's been refreshing to see the "oldhead" ATs have this much needed conversation!
When you said you saw book covers you loved and thought "could I?" That's exactly how I got into writing! I used to read fanfics (not like the cringy lovey-dovey kinds lol more plot focused and serious tones) and I loved it so one day I thought, "I could try writing one." And I was only going to make one but I ended up releasing a handful of fanfics and people actually really liked it! So, after a year I kinda floated away from that because I wanted to make my own story with my own characters so I could eventually share with a broader audience. And that's where I've been the past 5 or so years.. life got in the way as I grew up lol but still working towards my series! The plot has gotten deeper over the years so that's a plus haha
YES! to "May the books be with you" :D
I'm really happy for you and definitely will stick around for your new journey - so excited!
Yay! Glad that outro could be altered but not heavily changed! Thanks for always being a supportive person :)
Totally related to getting back to enjoying writing! And girl, THOSE COVERS! OMG, beautiful! I've also recently fallen into cover design (very randomly actually) and I'm loving it (and I totally understand the addictiveness of it, its like a puzzle and you completely just dive right in to "solving" it)! Also I'm so excited to see your videos again because I am such a stan and love your videos!
Honestly, I've needed this video. Ever since I was a kid, people complimented my writing (obviously I wasn't great. Just showing early signs of talent, I think) and expected me to be a writer. But I felt overwhelmed and that I had to publish something by twenty. It was a few months ago that I realized I might not actually enjoy writing as much as I used to. I'm not gonna stop writing, and I want to publish something one day, but I'm not going to be actively working towards that goal for another few years at least, and I'm going to focus more on my other less stressful (at least in the long-term sense) creative endeavors, and let High School be that much less stressful.
It’s hard to ask our art to support us. I think it’s important to wrestle with this - and maybe to embrace that our passions can be just that, our passion. I have 4 (4!) kids - the amount of money I’d have to make to replace a full time job is just astronomically high. I love that you’re being so honest and transparent. More creatives need that! I took all of March off myself and it really helps to be able to walk away bc it’s not your job.
Your book covers are awesome! I was in the same slump as you when it came to writing. Now I'm just focusing on enjoying the writing process rather than putting so much pressure and stress on myself with unrealistic writing goals. And weirdly enough, my writing has improved so much! Glad to hear that you've found your creative outlet - look forward to seeing more :)
I'm so glad I came across this video, I really don't think enough authors or writers talk about this. Yes, writing and publishing is a business, and can be treated as such, but businesses are very stressful and takes a lot of time out of your day, especially when you work full time. You don't get to sit around and write all day, your running a business too. I already made the decision awhile ago, not to stress myself out when comes to writing and publish when I want too. I have many drafts and a couple series I'm working on, and it's nice not having to worry about anyone pressing me to finish since I'm not published yet. And it's nice, I can see all the work and progress I've done and how my writing improved over last two years.
I personally don't want be a full-time writer, and I'm making plans for the future so I can support myself, but also be able enjoy my life. More people really need take a step back and imagine, what do they really want out of life, and then go from their with setting up their ideal life. Thanks for a great video!
i so feel this! and i love how upfront and forthright you are about being in tune with your own needs around how you position your writing! i know the wisdom is to like "treat writing like a job" but man... i have a job? writing is so much more fulfilling for me when it's a hobby and a passion but i don't have to hang things like paying my bills on it. do i want to write and publish? absolutely but i don't plan on giving up my day job while i do it because i never want writing to become something i'm resentful of doing
I love that you have found your passion! Those covers look amazing. Especially since designing is new for you! I actually really love the first one. It’s giving me ghost vibes haha.
“Witches be crazy” 😂 That’s hilarious! I love these covers! I think the second ones my favorite but the colorful light streaming in from the stain glass window in the third cover is absolutely stunning!!
I know I'm a little late to the party, but I LOVE that you're going down a path that best works for you! also absolutely thrilled to see more book cover videos!
Woa, those art covers are AWESOME! I'm so happy for you to dive into art like that!
Giiirrrrrl! I feel this! I hate the idea of making my writing my job because I go through long spouts of not wanting to write and then dive fully into writing so much it’s all I do. I feel like to be successful as an indie author you have to publish book after book and that just sounds stressful 😅
Love that you’re getting into cover design! Having creative outlets is key to fueling yourself as a creative. I’ve found switching things up (cover design, illustration, writing) is what keeps me going and loving what I do. After all, loving what you do is the most important part. The rest will fall into place later.
I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU! When you know, you know! You’re amazing!!!
I love this so much, Brooke! I too reached a point with writing where I felt like I wasn't having fun and the reality of "author life" didn't seem so glamorous when I realized what it realistically entailed in the day to day, as well as the struggle to make a sustainable income. When I mentally made the decision, like you, to write for fun and aim towards publishing as an achievement I'd love to reach and less of a "must do," I felt so free again! (And hey, if I happen to write a dope best seller that makes me millions, I won't resist it ;) But if I don't, that's okay too! Haha) I hope you continue to follow your heart, wherever it goes, and I can't wait to reach your writing one day! No matter how long it takes. :)
Also duuuuuuuuude those covers are AMAZING!!!
Awwwwww, dear Brooke (as one a bit older) I have to say, you're so young still, there is absolute no shame in trying new things. Actually trying new things is good, very good, look how much joy it brings you! And honestly, for the first 3 projects they look good actually! (I have a design background too!) And my other thought, now you've been through the writing process yourself you can better understand your future clients, which can only be a big plus me thinks! You understand now how precious a book baby is and your covers can really help to finish up someone's book. I know from other author tubers how a great design can be so appreciated. So keep that in mind if one day you have a client that's picky or other things don't work out the way you want them too. Also, tip to you, setting this up as a business takes more then just design skills, so invest time and what have you in that too, take yourself seriously in this, even if you at this point are still only starting out. Congrats, and as a subby of yours I'm excited to see you walk this new road. Go you! xxx
First of all, I just want to say that I love the Tiana background on your computer and the Aladdin genie lamp. Second, good for you! It’s not easy to pivot and be honest about what’s working for you. I’m glad you figured it out before going too deep with writing. Last year I took Regina Wamba’s Photoshop course and it changed my life. I love design too and can do it for hours on end, lol. I haven’t had the chance to really play with covers but hopefully I will. As you said, writing as a business is a lot of work and I’m on deadline every week it seems.
I really love all the covers (I think I already saw two of them on Saturday)! ♥️ I totally want that first one. No lie. It looks fantasy like and would fit some story I’m writing. I can’t wait to see the turn your channel makes. I’m rooting for you and I can’t wait to see more of your covers!
Those covers are stunning! I'm glad that you've found something you really enjoy, and that you've had some insights when it comes to your writing 😃
Life changes, dreams change and that's okay. Do you Brooke and I can't wait to see where your channel goes!
Those covers are amazing! Cover design is something I've always wanted to try but didn't know where to start. Mind sharing the courses you took/are taking for it? Can't wait to see what you accomplish on this new journey!
You hit all the reasons why I am beginning to see writing as a fun hobby. I have self-published a book as well around 2011 or 2012. My dream since childhood was to write, but lately, I have been working on a poetry podcast. If I happen to publish a book it will more than likely be curated poems or maybe I won't publish at all. I have great ideas for poetry book covers and even graphic comics is something I may want to learn as well. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!
Brooke I am so happy for you! It is an amazing thing to discover your true passion. Those covers are nothing short of stunning. From Princess to Queen especially is OMG FABULOUS! The background castle, the ethereal clouds, the beautiful blue tones. Very Brooke. Love love love them! I especially love how you light up when you talk about cover design. Your energy was poppin! And so infectious! Which is wonderful. It's so cool that you are keeping writing in your life, but just as a hobby. If it doesn't make your heart sing, then you are wise in putting your time and energy into those creative outlets that do make you want to stay up all night - like those beautiful covers! I wish you so much luck and send so many congratulations. I can't wait to see your vlog on how you do the designs! And all the other creative design content you put out there. xo
Brooke I admire you! Admitting to yourself (and the world) that a life long dream is not actually for you and really your passions lie elsewhere is so brave. Have fun designing ALL the covers ✨ and I will still look forward to buying Project New Orleans some day 😁
Hi Brooke, I totally feel you. Since I discovered AuthorTube, I just fell out of love with the actual process. I have always enjoyed writing, coming up with ideas, but anytime people talked about goals, word counts and money, I would click out of the video. All I want is the fun, and working full time as a teacher is as important to me as writing. I understand those who want to be full time authors, but that’s just not for me. I love your videos and you always put a smile on my face, so thank you.
Those book covers are lovely. Best of luck with everything moving forward. Can’t wait to see how the book covers evolve.
You can!! Sounds like a great path...how fun!!! I’ll definitely keep ya in mind when I publish in a month or so. 🥰
I love the third cover! And I'm so happy you're now happier with this creative direction and not forcing yourself to write full time if it doesn't bring you joy. The faint text is called a "watermark."
Ooh, I love all 3 covers! They are fantastic! I love that you have found your passion again! I think our best work comes when we are excited about our efforts, so hooray for making these decisions!
I also do and love book cover designing/selling, while publishing books. And you made an interesting point about how there are some things about the process that is just so stressful it can take the enjoyment out of writing. I hope you find your mojo again, and you do whatever feels right for you and welcome to the book cover gang. I am wishing you much success and happiness.
Love that you're being true to yourself and can't wait for your book design videos!
Wow, you are SO talented! I make covers for fun but none are so amazing as these! You definitely have a natural talent!
Love this Brooke! It's so important to explore our passions because we never know where they might lead. I think a lot of us try to box ourselves into one title (writer, singer, etc.) - especially if we've held on to a dream for a long time. But we forget that writers can also be designers. Writers can also be painters. Singers can also be songwriters. Actors can also be directors. I think this shifting and exploration is just part of being a creative person. P.S. Those covers are absolutely gorgeous!
I love the book covers you've created! I cannot believe you just started doing this because they look seriously legit. I fully support you being happily creative. Good on you for being able to reimagine your dreams. You got guts lady. I'm so excited for you and your new passion! Looking forward to all of your future bookish content.
You gotta do what you feel is best for you! I am still here and I am still watching! Good luck Brooke! I just changed my whole channel this year as well so I can relate to a degree.
The second book cover is stunning!!! Congrats and good luck with this new creative endeavor!!!
It's really admirable that you took a deep look into your journey and decided to change your path. It's so hard to do! Writing should be a joy and if the business side was sucking the joy out of it, why do it? I love your covers! They are so beautiful and I can see why you're finding joy in their creation. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us!
I'm totally here to support you through any of your endeavors. I love your book covers already!!
Yup yup! I can relate on the writing front. I've been switching focus too. As for me, I'm working on improving my art. I've been curious about cover design though. Good luck on your creative journey and may the books be you too! :P
Oh my goodness, those bookcovers😍😍😍 you are definitely talented!
I'm glad to see you moving back towards the pure enjoyment of writing. To make a leap to try something new is great as well. Book cover design really shows that you love books. You enjoy writing them, reading them. Now design their outside.
It's sometimes hard to let go of a dream because we've wanted it so long it's hard to justify to ourselves to stop. We all come to it in our own time.
The saying about ever working a day in your life is not about noting having a job, it's finding something you love doing so it's doesn't feel like work.
I'm glad you found what you are loving to do. You're Style is very Urban Fantasy and Romance. Good luck and I'd love to see what you do with the "Cover" Vlog.
Dang girl! Those are awesome!!! Follow your heart with whatever u choose. And dont ever think u can only do just one or two things. Learn everything. Try everything. Have fun and create!!!
This is so cool!! I'm with you on the thumbnails - why is making them so fun? 😂Your book covers look fantastic and your enthusiasm is off the charts so yeah. I think this is gonna be awesome. SUPER excited for cover creation vlogs!
I've taken a few Skillshare courses and really enjoyed them - I'll have to check out Martina's!
I'm so happy for you Brooke, those covers are amazing! Missed your videos :)
I have found myself comparing my writing path to others and feeling inferior but a while ago I decided that if writing was my hobby I was still an Author. Many big name authors did and do other things. The majority of published authors have other businesses or paycheck jobs but don't put it out there in the public. I have set my writing hobby in my mind as how I tell stories that are meant to impact not just entertain. It is not a source of income to cover my life. I want it to cover the expenses of editing, cover art, marketing. If the fiction and nonfiction drive traffic to my website where my other business is, great but the labor of writing is for my enjoyment, growth and hopefully to impact others so they think about something differently. I think your looking at cover art or support for authors is just great. Write when the story won't let you go, otherwise follow your bliss.
I just went through a very similar change as well so nice to see I'm not alone! Great video and thanks for sharing!
Good job!!! I hate to break it to you but...you are STILL in the book biz!!!!
OMG Brooke those covers are absolutely amazing! I love them and you are really good. I'm so happy that you found your happy again in a new and fun creative way. I can't wait until you start taking clients because I may have a few book covers I need lol. I wasn't blessed with those kinds of artistic capabilities so I am definitely looking. I can't wat for your video walk through of the process and to just see your videos pop up again in my notifications because I missed you and your Brooke-ness lol. Glad you're. Take care! ❤❤
Those are awesome book covers! Where did you bought those photos? Good luck with making book covers and writing. It’s always good to find fun in things we do.
So happy not only that you are doing what is best for you, but that you have found a new passion!
Congratulations! Finding your focus, what will bring you joy, is so liberating and empowering. Let writing be your passion project and cover art your joy. What a lovely foundation to build your life upon.
Ah, I was just thinking about you last night. I missed you! I'm so glad that you found a goal to pursue. You do you Brooke! I personally write stories just to have fun. If I ever decide to have my writing read by others, I'll just post on one of the many websites or maybe make a blog. I write to have fun, I could never force myself to do it full time.
It is great that you are allowing yourself to breathe and admit this to yourself and the world. That in itself will help you with whatever endeavors you pursue.
I’ve been feeling that exact same way. It’s really hard for me to keep to a strict schedule with anything, and especially with something I love. It sucks all the fun out of it. I want to enjoy writing, and not have to worry about the business side of things.
You have such a vision for the lighting in the covers I think that was my favorite part 👏 and I'm so happy for you and this new adventure 💗
GIRL! Focus on the joy of writing, it shouldn't feel horrible to write. I also design book covers and I feel like it's a great creative outlet. I love your designs, you're doing fantastic!!!
So excited to see book cover design content! Designing covers is always fighting for #1 of my hobbies, I just love creating them!
you are practically a natural at the book cover design. I'm looking forward to seeing what else you come up with you.
Congratulations on finding a new passion and being brave enough to change plans you've had for so long. That's a hard adjustment. Good for you!! Can't wait to see future content.
This is a great idea. Sometimes I take a break from writing for a couple of months and dabble into webcomics. When I come back to writing I have way more passion and energy to put into my projects. Anyways, I'm glad you're still here on youtube :)
It's great to see you excited about being creative again. Those covers are gorgeous and very "Brooke" especially the second one. It gives me live-action Disney vibes, and Disney is so totally you. When you're ready, I think you'll have more business coming your way than you'll know what to do with.
So beautiful!!! If it fit my story, I would absolutely buy the second cover!!!!
Your book covers look AMAZING, Brooke!! so many feels just looking at them! I’m so happy for you finding a creative outlet that just feels ~right~ and makes you want to pour your heart into it. I can’t wait to see how you grow and enjoy in all your new (and old) creative endeavors 💕
So excited for you, Brooke! I'm so happy you're enjoying book cover design--when you shared the first one, my jaw DROPPED! Yay for fun new things, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes you!🥳💕🎉
Also I think a book cover vlog is such a fun idea--I can't wait!
This is so fantastic, Brooke! It’s awesome seeing you so happy and passionate! I hope returning to writing being fun and starting this new project with covers will bring you so much joy! Thanks for sharing your journey with us! 💜💜💜
I love this new direction. I have a graphic design background so I can’t wait to see your book cover stuff. I also think as much as it’s important to know what you want to do it’s just as important to know what you don’t want to do.
I'm enjoying being on this creative journey with you, Brooke! I am so fascinated by book cover design, so it'll be super interesting to watch you learn and improve your skills. I think you already have an eye for design! So cool.
Those covers are awesome Brooke. And yeah I have felt recently that you've been losing your love for writing. So maybe it isn't what you're meant to do with your life, but just meant to be a hobby. But with how enthusiastic you are about book cover design. I feel this is where your path was supposed to lead. You needed to have those writing struggles so that you could realize this one.
BROOKE. This is so weird, but I know the exact chateau you used for the first book cover! lol But I'm glad that you've found your passion! That's always such a great and exciting feeling. :)
I am so excited for you! I make my own book covers, mainly out of an extremely limited budget, but they're Wattpad grade. I'm still learning, but getting photoshop in a few months will hopefully help. I am really excited for you and glad you've found a new passion you really love.
I’m so excited for you! This is an amazing endeavor and I have no doubt you’ll be successful. Covers like that sell like hotcakes, and they’re so gorgeous! Something tells me I’ll be coming to you for covers in the future!
I'm excited to watch your journey with designing book covers! 💜
I'm so happy for you! There's such a spark in your eyes when you talk about designing book covers, and it's absolutely wonderful to see!
Do what brings you joy. Time lost because you're in the zone is good hint you're on the right path. 😊❤
It's nice to hear an update of your journey!! I can't wait to see what you do next 😍 your book cover designs are lovely, I'm so happy for you!
This is so great! I'm glad you found your true passion! I've also been getting into making book covers! Let me know if you have any skillshare or youtube cover design class recommendations.
Those book covers are unbelievable (coming from an art major)!!! What software do you use to create them?
OMG the second book cover is freaking beautiful!
That’s awesome, I like creating book covers as well. I’m not a pro, I’m in progress at this time
I've been listening to Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. In it, she talks about how she didn't want to place the burden of expecting her creativity to financially support her life.... because those expectations killed the joy of writing inspiration. (She still ended up w a ny times bestseller though lol).
I've also recently listened to The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. She breaks all people down into 4 groups, based on how they respond to expectations placed on them. I'm the "rebel" type that doesn't do well with any expectations; Inner and outer. That type kinda screams Pantser to me. I've never technically finished a writing project but I can sense that I'm a panster...and not doing do well with expectations means that outlines kill my motivation. I even backed off from my writer's group so I could be free of all expectations. Expecting writing to be a "career" made me way more prone to procrastinate. I've decided to focus on being happy with where I am in life and not feeling like I "need" to be at a certain place with my writing. Whatever writing happens is just fine and once writing is actually fun again it'll probably be better anyways.
I look forward to future videos on your channel!
Brook you’re so talented with graphic design 👍🏻
Sounds really interesting, glad you found a new fun passion.
Those covers look totally "Brooke enough". In fact, I think we shall now call them . . . Brooke covers.
Girl, you know I'm here to support you in whatever you love to do! I think enjoying what you're writing and it not feeling like a chore is super important. That's why my channel focuses mostly on reading vs. writing because I just focus on what I'm enjoying more at the time. I love writing but not when I feel like it's a chore.
Also, creating book covers is 100% part of authortube! Some of the indie published authortubers create their own covers (or want to) so you're still doing things that are on brand for your channel. =)
I'm also here for "May the books be with you." Also, also, also,
That is so true. Whenever I'm about to write it's turned into a job and is no longer fun when it comes to that. Writing is supposed to be fun Lol totally agree with you. I've been dealing with bad brain fog so that hasn't been quite helpful during Camp NaNo. I have this storyline that's really, really creepy and I can't get myself to write it and it aggravates me lmao 🙃😆 I am outlining so that's a plus! It's nice seeing you! I've taken a break from doing RUclips videos cuz I just didn't have it in me. Sometimes youtubers and also writers and authors need that break 👌 it's healthy.
Hold crap, Brooke! Those are amazing!
I used to make fake book covers for fun and for random competitions. It was really fun. We'd get a prompt for a cover, then make a cover and then a random book summary to go with it.
Oh wow, i'm honestly really impressed with those book covers!
Good job it looks like you might’ve found your niche that’s fantastic they’re beautiful!
I'm excited to see a sci-fi cover from you.
Great job Brooke! As always
Those book covers look amazing!
The second book cover looks so pretty!!
I'm in love with the second cover.