My Story

My Story

I wanted to take some time to introduce myself to my new fellow, readers, writers, and friends. I was recently reminded to share my story. My journey as a writer has not been a simple one. Everyone’s journey is unique, so I will not claim anything special, but I will say I have not shared my own so here goes.

I have always been creative and made up stories. I love talking and my imagination has and likely will always run on a wavelength all its own. And reading was a constant for me and my family. I did not embrace my ability to create stories until after the birth of my 1st child. If you have visited my Dreams of the Heart page, this piece of the story you may know. Dreams of the Heart came by way of a dream. Really it was a nightmare that turned one scene, one horrible thought into a story of triumph and love. I wrote Dreams of the Heart over a 7-year span. Throughout that time I had another child, graduated with a degree in Computer Networking, elevated my career as an IT Professional for a major banking institution, and grew as a wife. Sometime after the 2017 publication of my first novel, I begin to see the world differently. I did not have dreams of a Danielle Steele writing life, I just wanted joy out of my personal career choices. After a year of hard trials and mental strains; God led me to, or I should say pulled me back toward my passions. I reenrolled in school and started the Master in Library Science program. And as if that wasn’t enough I decided to start another book.

In February of 2019, I published my second novel Twin Souls: A Blue Moon Novel, and started a new career as a library professional. This marks a major transition from corporate America, to public service. Before this change, I spent many years striving to be accepted as a black technology professional. I worked very hard on my technical certifications and skillset. It was odd to start over. But necessary.

So, 5 years later I still do not regret my decision. As a public service employee for a public library, I have held an adult librarian role, a training role, and now a manager role. This work connects with my passions of learning, reading, and creativity. I have been able to move more freely and be my more authentic self. The nerdy things I love are typically welcomed. Talking about fantasy books is not only acceptable, but in some library roles required. Most importantly I get to make an impact on the community around me. My work means something and that is all anyone can ask for. While it is a cliché statement, it rings true; If you love your job, you will never work a day in your life.

I hope everyone who visits my page finds their passion. I hope you find your joy and lean into your callings. I have and finally can be me, Tanela Hicks- Librarian, Author, and Friend.

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Connecting The Past

Character development is difficult for even the most seasoned writers. Understanding how much to give, where to place the reveals, and how to adapt your character’s personalities throughout the plot process; are all problems that we face. As I work on Cherrywood Inn 2, figuring out how much background I want to give to the main protagonist has been challenging. My readers will recognize the love interest and the background has already been nicely laid. However my female lead needs background, she needs a hurt heart; she needs reasons for change.

I have been working to find the best mix of family dynamics, past relationships, and old ambitions. I would like to have the setting of the Inn and the town woven into her new emerging personality traits. However, I do not want to take away from the plot and the evolution that all characters should have throughout a story.

I’m confident that I’ll figure things out as I always have. I’ll leverage my resources and utilize online tools. With a top-notch editor and a fantastic writing coach, I know I have the support I need. There’s a wealth of free classes and research materials at my fingertips, and I’ve only just begun to explore them.

When all else fails, I would like Cherrywood Inn to guide and direct me. This story series is more than just restoration for some made-up young adults in a fictional North Carolina town. Cherrywood Inn is a breathing character of its own, that, as do many of my characters; talk back to me when writing. I can often feel the emotions of my character. These feelings take me where I need to go in the moment. I am hopeful that Cherrywood Inn 2 will lead me toward the damaged yet strong female protagonist I want to share with my readers.

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