Behind Every Author, There’s a support system

Fish tacos — what exactly are they?

I have absolutely no clue. But just saying the words “fish tacos” out loud feels like a small vacation in my mouth, doesn’t it? A little exotic, a little mysterious, definitely delicious-sounding. And believe me, I am kind of looking forward to them.

But—no, this post is not a culinary blog, nor is it a fish taco recipe (though if you have one, please send it my way). I was actually smack dab in the middle of writing chapter 23 of my latest cozy mystery—probably unraveling a secret or making a dog say something suspiciously wise—when I casually asked my husband what was for dinner. His answer? “Fish tacos.” Boom. That’s it. Suddenly, my whole world paused, and the only thing I could think about was, What the heck is a fish taco?

This post, dear reader, is actually a tribute—an ode, even—to those unsung heroes behind the scenes of every indie author’s life. You know, the people who keep the lights on, the fridge stocked, and the kitchen running while we’re off in our imaginary worlds making up stories about murder, magic, and talking dogs. Without them, indie authors would survive on a strict diet of cold pizza washed down with warm beer (okay, maybe some of us still do, but it wouldn’t be pretty).

So, here’s to the spouses, partners, friends, kids, or that one roommate who tolerates you disappearing into the abyss of writing madness, who manages the real-life stuff while you battle plot holes and craft witty dialogue. Thank you for making the mundane magnificent. Because when the world’s spinning too fast, and the muse is playing hide-and-seek, knowing someone’s got dinner sorted is basically literary magic.

Now, I have to get back to my mystery and dream about those fish tacos again. If anyone else has a behind-the-scenes cheerleader who’s saved their writing life, share your story — and maybe your favorite taco recipe, too.

Keep writing and keep eating well, friends. The stories (and tacos) will thank you.

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