As May draws to a close, I’m sitting with a swirl of emotions, joy, excitement, nervousness, and a healthy dash of “is this really happening?” It’s not a bad kind of overwhelm. It’s the kind that comes when you’re on the edge of something long-dreamed, when your heart’s moving faster than your calendar, and when the only thing left to do is breathe and step forward.
This month has felt enriching in every sense of the word. One of the most surreal and emotional moments was sharing the first cover reveal teasers for The Secret Map on my Instagram. That book, those characters, those pages, they’re about to step into the world. And honestly? Wow. Just… wow.
On the creative front...
✨ My Patreon launched on May 1st, and it’s been such a joy to create content that blends journaling, books, and quiet reflection. I’m praying it continues to grow into a cozy little creative community.
✨ I’ve also started working on a reader journal/book companion, which is shaping up to be a beautiful space for reflection and bookish thoughts.
✨ And the most exciting? Book 2 in The Secret Map series is officially in progress! Chapter 2 had me in a chokehold for a couple of weeks, but we’ve broken through and we’re moving forward again.
I’ve also been balancing my roles as an ARC and beta reader, and I’m proud of the feedback I’ve been able to give other authors this month. Helping someone else polish their work while nurturing my own has been a rewarding challenge.
Coming in June…
- The Secret Map preorder bundle goes live! It includes a signed copy of the book, a themed journal, secret maps, and some magical goodies.
- Breathe Write Reflect, my nonfiction guide to mindful journaling, releases June 15th, on Amazon.
- ✈️ I’m off to Minnesota to celebrate a friend’s book launch, the final book in her trilogy. Bookish joy all around!
Lessons I’m carrying with me
This month taught me one thing loud and clear: I do not have enough time. 😂 I’ve got so many stories in my head and real life keeps calling. So I’ve been extra intentional about scheduling time to write and create.
Imposter syndrome tried to visit this month, but when I sit down to plot, I surprise myself. The stories are there. The creativity is real. And I’m claiming that confidence one page at a time.
Journaling, especially right before writing, has been my grounding force. Emptying my thoughts onto paper before a session has opened the door for my writing to flow more freely. Letting go of the clutter in my mind has given my characters the room they need to speak.
As we step into June...
If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with yourself, I gently invite you to begin—or restart—your journaling practice. Just five minutes. Free write. Let it be messy, let it be yours. It’s one of the purest forms of self-care I know.
And if you'd like to stay connected, here’s where to find me:
- Join The Quill & Chronicle Insiders (my cozy newsletter)
- Patreon: LoveJustD where we journal, read, and write together.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your presence means more than you know.
With love and paper dreams,
D. O. Robinson