Black History Month Author Spotlight: Dawn Delavallade
Autherine Publishing is committed to creating more diversity in the publishing industry by supporting both emerging and established authors. In honor of Black History Month, we are amplifying the voices of black authors by featuring 28 emerging authors. Please read their stories and continue to follow their writing journey.
Dr. Delavallade, welcome to our Black History Month Author Spotlight! Please introduce your latest book to our audience.
My latest book is a contemporary manual to help high-achieving women (whether single, married, or divorced) successfully navigate love and dating when she earns more! This is my third book in a series of works dedicated exclusively to Female Breadwinners- women who earn more than the men that they love- with the goal of helping these types of modern relationships survive and thrive. We are a New Normal!
Why was it important for you to write this story?
It was important because I’ve seen first-hand how a flip flop in the income hierarchy between husband and wife can seep into the foundation of a relationship and cause division. Until we as a society are ready to bravely confront what each partner needs to feel whole in these relationships, we will struggle. We can’t compare our love to our grandparents’ love- we must create a fresh, new paradigm of relationship culture that works for us, and mirrors the level of education, influence, and power that women embody today.
Describe your writing process or writing schedule.
My book was based on interviews with men who have experience with women as high-earners. I conducted several one-hour virtual interviews with my male contributors each week for several weeks. After getting the interviews transcribed online, I was able to dissect the content and tease out the recurring themes and glaring similarities that emerged. I would commit a certain amount of time each day to write. For me, this happens to be as soon as I awaken preferentially- that’s my most creative time of day. For all of my books, I write on a no-frills mini-laptop (no internet capabilities) that’s super small and can fit in my purse. That way I also have it with me and I continue to write whenever I have down time during my day, even when I’m out and about.
Who is your favorite black author and how has that author inspired your writing journey?
Probably Frederick Douglass because his writing was so bold and unapologetic and brave for his time. He risked his life to tell his story to the world, not for his own benefit, but for the benefit of his people to achievement freedom from slavery. And he succeeded! I have had to be bold during my journey as well. Uncovering a topic that rebukes the patriarchal construct has been scary at times!
What words of advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Write about your passion, whatever it is. Sharing your authentic story will ultimately free you in this life. Putting the very essence of who you are on paper creates a legacy and an impact, helping you to leave this world a better place than you found it.
What has been the most challenging part of the writing or publishing journey?
Definitely marketing as a self-published author. You don’t have a publishing machine behind you, so all the leg work of trying to capture attention in a busy world is not easy.
What is next on your journey and how can we support your book?
My journey is now focused on growing my amazing Facebook group called “She Makes More Nation”. This safe space on social media is geared toward successful women who identify as high earners- we share content on love, health, wealth, mindfulness, and self-care . Come join us! My book can be found at
www.SingleAndSuccessfulAtLove.com
Autherine Publishing is an independent, minority-owned publisher that specializes in books and educational materials that are culturally diverse with a preference for books that teach and inspire (self-help, memoirs, poetry, life and business instructional). EXPLORE OUR SERVICES. We are also the parent company of the Island Mindful Path, which publishes inspirational courses and products. We can help with all of your publishing needs including, book coaching, idea development, manuscript editing, cover design, production, book promotion and ghostwriting. We are committed to transforming your story into your legacy! Contact us if you have additional questions. Follow on Instagram.
