Writing a book will stretch you. Publishing one will rebuild you. These past two years—writing Moons and Shadows—have been the most creatively fulfilling and emotionally demanding experience of my life. Not just because of the words, but because of what they required of me. So today, I’m sharing six writing struggles that taught me something deeper—not just about being an author, but about being myself in the process.

They say writers are in control of their stories.

…They’re wrong.

I thought I had control. I really did. But Moons and Shadows had other plans. Or rather - the characters did.

Every story has its heartbeat - its quiet truths, aching questions, and whispered defiance. Moons and Shadows is filled with moments like these. Lines that don’t just move the plot forward… they cut to the core of what this journey is about.

Here are 8 quotes that capture that heart. Each one is small - but heavy with meaning.