Maya’s Blog

Here I share insights into my writing journey and the creation of my novel, Painting Celia. These posts offer a deeper understanding of the book, revealing the symbolism, character development, and lyrical language that define my work. They also explore my process of balancing introspection and action, crafting authentic characters, and navigating the ebb and flow of creativity. At least, they explain how I try to do all that!

I hope my perspective inspires and encourages you on your own creative journey. And maybe, to pick up the book!

 

Publishing

a young woman is suprised by what she's read in a book

Giveaway! Free Copies of Painting Celia

Grab a free Kindle copy of Painting Celia! Enter my Goodreads Giveaway before September 1st, 2024.

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a painting of a woman sitting in an armchair listening on headphones to a satisfying story

Painting Celia has an Audiobook!

Painting Celia is now an audiobook! Listening to my story come to life was surreal. Now, you can experience it too—available in all formats!

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a painting of an older woman telling a story to an engaged crowd of women and children

The Art of Storytelling is the Art of Community Building

Writing took me from private author to public advocate for Portland's artists. Isn't it amazing what art can do?

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a painting of a woman sitting in the middle of a deseted city street, writing

The Privilege of Expression

Feeling stuck during the pandemic, I wrote a novel to transform my life. Learn how it changed me at the launch celebration in May 2024.

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a painting of a lion with a rose in its mouth

The Lion, the Rose, and the Deadline

A laugh, a lion, and a rose—a skeptic author finds insight (and humor) consulting the Tarot.

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a modern desk with an ultrawide monitor showing a book cover and list with graph

From List to Launch

From perfectionist tweaks to a joyful photo shoot, my journey through self-publishing and launching my publishing imprint unfolds.

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