After writing several book-length manuscripts and publishing four novels-one of which was recognized in the first-place category in an international book contest-and speaking about becoming an indie author at professional development sessions, the author was encouraged to share her insights on creative writing and self-publishing, resulting in this handbook. Indie author M. J. Simms-Maddox, Ph.D., created 'The Priscilla Series,' a unique collection chronicling the coming-of-age journey and adventures of a modern-day, self-assured Black American woman of diverse ancestry. The South Carolina native grew up in the Snowbelt of western New York. Her academic credentials include a Doctor of Philosophy degree in political science from The Ohio State University. She has served as a legislative aide in the Ohio Senate, operated a PR firm, and taught political science. Consequently, many plots in the novel series revolve around politics.The author is self-taught; she did not study creative writing in college. She began writing fiction in the late 1990s, inspired by a recurring dream of a conversation with her father. She believed she was finished after publishing her first novel, Priscilla Engaging in the Game of Politics. However, much more came forth after that.