Guys, I’m making some changes. And I think you’re really gonna like it.

This year has been really transformative for me in an unexpected way. For a long while, I’ve felt like I was wandering through a murky bog with a half-lit lantern, checking over my shoulder going, “Man, I hope I stumble into a writing career soon.” Then 2026 comes along, and lightbulbs pinged above my head at an incredible rate. Things that I had previously categorized as “I would do this, if I weren’t so scared” were now being thrown into the category of “I literally have no reason not to try this”.

FUN CHANGE #1 I HAVE A NEW PEN NAME

I’ve mentioned before that I’m interested in pursuing a Hybrid Author career, with both traditionally published books and indie titles. (Traditional meaning a big publisher puts my book on a Barnes and Noble shelf, and Indie meaning I list it on Amazon myself). One problem is that I’m all over when it comes to writing. Age ranges, genres, moods – I like to write it all! But I sat down and separated some 30+ book ideas into two categories: Mystery Thrillers and Funny Books. And surprise, surprise, the categories were even TO THE NUMBER. I’m exactly half spooky murder conspiracies and half weird comedy adventures. But that gave me a clear direction on what to do next!

I’ll continue to query my mystery thrillers under “Val Manwill” but regularly put out funny books under my new pen name…

K, you ready, for the reveal??

“Val Stowaway”

Ta-da!

FUN CHANGE #2 I’M STARTING A BUTTLOAD OF NEW SOCIAL MEDIA

Yeah, you’re right. I’ve already put a book on Amazon under Val Manwill. And that’s true. But to be honest with you, I never tried with that book. You know? I hired an artist to illustrate a cover that I really loved but beyond that I never marketed it or even spoke up about it.

SOOOOOOOOOOOO in order to give the indie part of my career a voice, I’m making videos, baby!

For short form, I have TIK TOK (subscribe here) and INSTAGRAM (subscribe here)

For longer form, I have a new YouTube channel, and a mini documentary about my author journey is coming out later this month! (subscribe here)

FUN CHANGE #3 I NOW HAVE A MONTHLY NEWSLETTER SO YOU CAN FOLLOW ALONG!

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