Author Adelaide Green

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. Even as a child, I’d “make up stories,” letting my imagination roam free. But as I grew older, especially in college, I faced harsh criticism. A professor once told me the romance and fantasy I loved to write “was not real literature.” Later, for years, I was in a relationship where my writing was put down, making me doubt myself even more.

When my dad was sick with cancer, before he passed, he told me to keep writing — even if it was just to make me happy. That encouragement became my lifeline. I started writing again, and I’ve never stopped. I’ve written two books that may never see the light of day, and started many more. Ideas come and flow, but I often feel like an imposter or wonder, “Who would even read this?”

Two years ago, I began a new book. I haven’t given up on it, but doubts still creep in — am I good enough? Will anyone care?

Recently, I was lucky enough to hear from Tracy Wolff and Rebecca Yarros. Their words gave me so much hope. They reminded me that many authors start right where I am now — uncertain, questioning, but brave enough to try. They showed me that I don’t just need to try, I deserve to try.

Thank you, @tracywolffbooks and @rebeccayarros, for inspiring me not only with your incredible writing but with your honest, heartfelt conversation.

Here’s to this being the year I push through, finish my work, and hopefully share it with the world. And thank you to my little sister for being my biggest supporter and going with me when I was scared to go do something new alone. I love and appreciate you!!