Meet the Team Behind From the Piney Woods: The Heart and Guidance Behind Every Page

Hello friends,

Today, I’d love to introduce you to the amazing team that’s helping bring From the Piney Woods to life. They’re not just professionals—they’re true partners on this journey, guiding me to tell a story that’s as real and resonant as it can be.

Let me start with my editor. Working with her has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career. She has an incredible ability to look beneath the surface of a story, and she saw from my first self-published manuscript that the story had “good bones.” But she noticed that I was skimming over painful parts, perhaps trying to protect myself or others. Her insight helped me open up, bringing authenticity and depth to the narrative in ways I hadn’t anticipated. She also taught me that readers want to feel the pain alongside the characters—to be fully invested in each raw, vulnerable moment.

Her guidance didn’t stop there. She educated me on the power of dialogue, showing me how it brings characters to life and creates a connection that makes readers feel part of the journey. Every session with her has pushed me to be a better writer, challenging me to bring out each detail honestly and openly. I can’t imagine tackling this story without her, and I can say without a doubt that she’s been worth every penny. It’s an investment that has transformed me as a writer and made From the Piney Woods what it is today.

Now, onto my publisher. A remarkable woman with a wealth of experience, she came into this project with the perfect blend of knowledge, patience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to bring a book to life. She’s a true expert in all the details of publishing, from ISBN numbers and how many to use to the artistry of book cover design. She’s guided me through each important page—acknowledgments, bio, dedication, interior layout—ensuring every element reflects the spirit of the story.

Her tips and insights have also been invaluable for managing the financial aspects of this journey. She provided guidance that helped my husband and me see the advantages of investing in the project. She’s been a rock, helping us stay on budget and reminding me to focus on what matters most. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive partner in publishing, and her patience with my learning curve has been nothing short of extraordinary.

And finally, my publicist—the one who first believed in this story and set this journey in motion. It has been fascinating to watch the writing go through each stage: from the editor’s hands, to the publisher’s guidance, and finally to my publicist for the final handoff. She is preparing for a full “relaunch” of the book since I had initially self-published it. With her many connections and fresh ideas, she’s been wonderful in planning how to share this story with a broader audience. She’s encouraged me to consider speaking engagements and book signings, opening doors I never thought I’d walk through. I get the sense she’s gently bringing me into the public side of things at a manageable pace, knowing just how to keep it exciting but not overwhelming.

All three of these amazing women are far more than just a team helping me republish my book. They matter to me on a personal level, and I can honestly call them friends. Their support, insight, and friendship mean the world to me, and it’s been an honor to work with them. I look forward to the next book in the series, to show them how much they have taught me!

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your encouragement means everything, and I can’t wait to share more with you.

With heartfelt gratitude,

PJ Hamilton