Melissa’s Substack

Melissa’s Substack

Share this post

Melissa’s Substack
Melissa’s Substack
The Journey to The Princess and Her Owl

The Journey to The Princess and Her Owl

Finding Courage and Creativity Through Setbacks and Second Chances

Melissa Allred's avatar
Melissa Allred
Oct 23, 2024
∙ Paid
7

Share this post

Melissa’s Substack
Melissa’s Substack
The Journey to The Princess and Her Owl
5
Share

When I first tried to write The Princess and Her Owl in 2016, I felt as though the story was locked away, sitting just out of reach. I had the idea, but the words refused to come. Life got busy, and I set the project aside. It wasn’t until last February, during a period of recuperation, that the story found its way to the page.

After a brief illness, I was instructed not to exert myself for a few days—no strenuous activities, just rest. With nothing but my phone to occupy the time, I decided to give writing another try. I used the notes app on my phone, typing out what would eventually become The Princess and Her Owl. It was exciting but nerve-wracking.

At one point, I lost a whole chapter due to a technical glitch, and my stomach dropped. Thankfully, I had backed up parts of the story in my emails, a practice I now use religiously.

Though not everything was saved, I didn’t let that loss stop me. I found the resolve to keep writing, and I pushed on until I reached the finish line.

Ed…

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Melissa’s Substack to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Melissa Allred
Publisher Terms
Substack
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share