Dana Brentson is a self-published, fantasy and romance author. A mother of 3 and working 2 part-time jobs, she has a lot going for her.
Outside of reading indie ARCs and writing her novels, she loved to play video games and partake in DnD. Her earliest writing memory comes from journaling in the third grade when her teacher told her she talked too loudly in class (there’s already so much to say at that age too, Ms. Teacher).
Dana always loved fantasy in any media, fascinated with “all the ways fantasy authors describe things like magic.” While writing this is a bit of romance, she tends to stay away from the horror genre as she thinks she could do the genre justice.
After many rejections from a literary agent, she decided to pursue the self-publishing aspect. The push came from herself. She thought it would be the only way to get her writings into the reader’s hands. “Now, I really appreciate the creative freedom that comes with all the work involved,” she wrote to me on the subject. “The publishing business is so subjective that it’s hard to break into the traditional side of things.” She is very fulfilled in her work and it allows her to keep her creative license.
Like other self-publishing authors, Dana enjoys not being set to a frame of deadlines, making her own decisions, and how and when things get published. And, on the other hand, marketing and costs are the downside.
For future writers, keep trying. Keep writing. And keep editing. Even if it feels like it’s not going anywhere, keep moving forward.
Recent experiences in the writing industry are found in growth - it’s making Dana push even more as she is watching other indie authors grab massive followings, book deals, and agent offers. On top of this, she has an event planned at her local library for her book release! Many jumps of joy and prayers, my friend.
Her most recent book release, August 15, 2024, is when Provenance of Power book 2 of The Ambience Series comes out. It is a high fantasy adventure with some romance, continuing Lila's journey. The world Dana created is expanding and she is excited to show readers how the world, conflict, and her characters have grown.
Find her book on Amazon
And Follow her on Instagram
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