Stories for All Mystery Lovers

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brook Peterson, a mystery author based in Payette, ID, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am an independent author and publisher of the Jericho Falls Cozy Mysteries. I also co-host the Clued In Mystery Podcast with fellow author Sarah M. Stephen.

Tell us about yourself

I've been a mystery fan since the age of nine when I discovered Alfred Hitchcock's Three Investigators Series. By the time I was ten, I was writing my own stories and turning them into little stapled paperbacks for my family to read. These days I'm thrilled to be writing and publishing real books to share with other mystery lovers. My novels often contain intriguing family secrets, valuable antiques, and a bit of romance.

About a year ago, another of my long-time dreams came true when Sarah M. Stephen asked me to co-host a podcast with her. We release weekly episodes where we celebrate all things mystery diving deep into biographies of mystery authors, the history behind famous mystery tales, and popular mysteries on tv and in film.

When I'm not reading or writing, I like exploring the Idaho outdoors with my family and our two spoiled pooches.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Since being an author has been a lifelong dream, having readers contact me to say they enjoy my books is my most cherished career accomplishment.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Staying motivated and consistent. Creative businesses are like any other, I'm my own boss, and no one is going to remind me to get my writing done for the day. But indie publishing is great fun, so it's worth it.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Network. Even though I dreaded being active on social media at first, I have met so many amazing authors who have helped me learn the ropes. We also collaborate on promotions and spread the word about each others' work.
Dive in. Don't wait until you have all the details figured out to get started. It's easy to get stuck in the research or learning stages, but it's best to just start. You can make changes and corrections as you go.
Follow your bliss. If an opportunity lights you up or sounds exciting, follow that inspiration. That's your path. Likewise, even if "everyone else" is doing something that you find a drag, skip it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.brookpetersonauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brooktheauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookpetersonauthor/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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