Behind the Pen: The Wild and Witty Journey of Indie Author Saige-Annette Jarrett
There's something magnetic about a writer who can find humor in the most challenging experiences, something that makes them feel like a character we'd want to know in real life. For Saige-Annette Jarrett, this quality inspired her decision to become an indie author.
"It's not just my life that fascinates me," she shares. "I find people's stories intriguing, too. How I describe situations animated and filled with vivid details draws others in. And people seem to find inspiration in how I navigate my struggles, by finding that subtle humor even in the darkest times."
For Saige-Annette, it was never about following the traditional route to publishing. There was no big "Aha!" moment, but rather a slow realization that indie publishing allowed her to bring her stories to life exactly as she envisioned them. It was about connecting with readers, knowing someone would relate to her characters' struggles and triumphs. But even with this understanding, she advises her pre-published self: "Be patient. The world of indie publishing takes time, but do it anyway!"
Being an indie author has its highs and lows. The freedom to craft stories without the constraints of a traditional publishing house is empowering, but the wait for your book to find its audience can be extended. Saige-Annette explains, "The best part is knowing that someone, somewhere, will connect with the way your characters speak to them. The hardest part? Waiting to be discovered. But it's all worth it."
Regarding writing, Saige-Annette reveals she falls squarely into the category of a "chaotic pantser." There's no rigid plotting involved here; it’s just pure inspiration. "I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about scenes and character development. I jump up, start writing, and lose track of time. But in that chaos, I find the depth I'm looking for."
But that doesn't mean she doesn't have a writing fuel. While most authors reach for coffee or tea, Saige-Annette has a different go-to fruit. "A cup of strawberries, blackberries, and cherries makes my thoughts soar. I think it's the natural sugars, but they work wonders!"
The creative process doesn't stop at writing. In a unique twist, Saige-Annette builds a playlist for each book, filled with songs that reflect the emotions she wants to convey in her writing. "Each character has their own set of lyrics that match their actions. It's also a shout-out to artists who deserve more recognition."
Regarding her latest book, Saige-Annette isn't shy about describing it in five words: Sultry, inquisitive, gut-punch, frustrating, narcissistic. But if she could grab coffee with one of her characters, it would be Lorelei. "She's the thread that holds everything together despite life's twists. And she's not even involved in the main romantic drama. She deserves the spotlight for her strength."
Saige-Annette has already envisioned her book as a movie, casting some big names in her characters' roles: Persia White as Remoulade, Roman Reigns as Drew, and Jason Momoa as Julian, to name a few. Her characters are as larger-than-life in her imagination as they are on the page.
There are moments in every writer's journey that stand out, and for Saige-Annette, one of the most memorable interactions with a reader was when someone told her, "Your books need to be enjoyed the old-fashioned way. Ebooks don't allow for dog-eared pages to revisit scenes." This reader bought the eBook but then ordered the paperback so they could re-read it with the tactile experience of a physical book.
While many authors may shy away from reviews, Saige-Annette approaches them open-mindedly. "I read reviews to see if the emotions I wanted to convey connected with the reader. Every genre resonates differently with people, so I'm curious if my version hit the mark."
Yet, there's one myth about indie publishing that Saige-Annette wishes more people understood: "Support from distributors who claim to be 'indie-friendly' isn't always as supportive as it seems. And a good set of reviews doesn't always create the avalanche that drives readers to your work. Book signings matter. They let readers connect with the writer behind the words."
In true indie spirit, Saige-Annette has a bold sense of creativity and inspiration in her writing. "If I could co-write with anyone, it would be the late Dr. Maya Angelou. She had a way with words that touched your very soul." When asked about her guilty pleasure reading, there's no shame in her answer: Eric Jerome Dickey novels. "His stories have an authentic Black experience, and you can't help but nod along."
Stuck on a deserted island with three books? Saige-Annette would bring the Bible, Sidney Sheldon's If Tomorrow Comes (the book that sparked her love for reading), and Maria Shriver's I've Been Thinking. As for her writing style? If it were a cocktail, she would describe it as a Whiskey Long Island Iced Tea; it’s a little strong, sweet, and memorable.
Regarding advice, the most impactful piece she's received is simple but profound: "Keep going. For everyone who doesn't love your work, five people are waiting for it."
Finally, Saige-Annette wants readers to understand that while indie authors may not always get the recognition they deserve, a simple review can make all the difference. And as for her exciting projects? Well, you'll have to wait to see what comes next from this incredibly talented author!
