Empowering Voices! Launching Evora Press to Support Authors and Single Parents

As I navigate this windy road of publishing my books, I've found that many authors feel like they are on their own in a sea of sharks. The joy of creating their story fades into frustration when they face challenges finding a trusted publisher and getting fairly compensated for their work. When I joined various author groups and writer communities, I came across the same experiences over and over again: vanity presses soliciting authors and coming up short after taking their money! I too, get the same messages daily myself, and it is always the same: pay me x dollars, and I'll get you loads of book sales. These are empty promises at best, and bonified scams at worst.

That is bonkers. On the other hand, traditional publishers are practically inaccessible for indie and new authors. I am frustrated on behalf of every wonderful author swimming in these shark-infested waters!

That's why I am excited to announce the launch of Evora Press, a new publishing house dedicated to uplifting new writers. While it was tough to delay the release of my book, "Eva and the Best Day Ever," this choice allows me to create a supportive community for authors who deserve to be heard. This is going to be epic! #worththewait!

Evora Press is officially born!

The Birth of Evora Press

Evora Press was inspired by my own experiences as a solo parent. After losing my job earlier this year, I faced significant challenges providing for my children. I wanted to maintain the stability they deserve, but I couldn't make ends meet. I filled out countless job applications (actually I counted, over 200), explored any opportunities, and connected with local resources. My creative outlet was writing stories. And as I began to develop my storybooks, I sought advice from advocates and mentors in writer groups and author communities. I discovered countless beautiful, inspiring stories waiting to be told, if only they could get their stories published without being taken advantage of. The world needs a platform that showcases their stories while also ensuring authors receive fair compensation for their hard work.

Evora Press is more than just a publishing house; it is a movement rooted in local community. At Evora, we focus on single parents and other new and emerging authors who have unique struggles. We focus on making connections with local community groups (schools, libraries, social groups, support groups, and local bookstores) and bringing readers fantastic stories the whole family will enjoy reading together. Evora is a brand that authors can take pride in publishing under, because Evora values their work enough to pay them for it, and Evora aims to build a sense of community. #newauthors

Why This Matters

The publishing industry is really tough; and I know the extra challenge juggling parenthood at the same time. It does not take long for aspiring authors to encounter vanity presses, who are "publishers" promising quick success for high fees. Sadly, these promises usually lead to disappointment, leaving authors out of money, feeling cheated, and discouraged.

Evora Press takes the opposite approach. We place transparency and integrity at the forefront. Our authors earn fair compensation for their work, like traditional publishing models. By prioritizing transparent contracts and keeping open communication, we create a supportive space where our authors can connect and share their stories with our readers.

The Importance of Community Support

As I went through my financial crisis this year, I was very fortunate to receive help from several community groups and advocates. These connections guided me through my challenges and now, have inspired me to give back. At Evora Press, we aim to cultivate a strong community among authors, encouraging collaboration and mutual support.

Over time, as we grow, Evora will build a network of fellow writers who can share experiences, offer guidance, and lift one another up. This sense of community is vital for sparking creativity and resilience, particularly for those who may feel alone on their writing paths.

The Road Ahead: Funding Evora Press

As I embark on this exciting venture, I recognize the need for initial funding to launch Evora Press effectively. To achieve this, Evora will launch a Kickstarter campaign. This campaign will help Evora secure essential resources to support our authors and build a community of backers who believe in Evora's mission.

I invite you to reach out if you would like to be involved with Evora Press. I'm looking for book reviewers, marketing expertise, advocates to get the word out, and partners, especially community organizations or local nonprofits. I'd love to connect and brainstorm how we can work together.

I also invite you to stay tuned for updates on our Kickstarter campaign and to donate to become part of this endeavor. Your support will help us create a platform that empowers authors and elevates voices that truly deserve to be heard.

The Stories We Want to Share

The books Evora Press publishes are for children all all ages, from board books to YA chapter books. Evora focuses on great story-telling, using imagination and adventure to weave in life lessons and learning. Our authors will bring a unique voice and perspective to enrich the world of literature.

Evora is dedicated to showcasing authors who have a unique real-life behind-the-scenes story of their own. Whether it is the challenge of raising children by oneself, either by choice or by chance, or other life struggle to overcome, Evora supports authors who are involved in their own local communities in some way. Thereby, the cycle of paying it forward continues. I've connected with several local authors already, and I'm excited to share their works and their stories when Evora launches in 2026!

A sneak peak of the cover for "Eva and the Best day Ever!"

The Power of Storytelling

Storytelling can connect us, heal us, and inspire change. As a solo parent, I have seen how powerful stories can be in our lives. They offer comfort in tough times, joy in good ones, and foster understanding among different viewpoints.

At Evora Press, we understand the significance of storytelling in shaping our communities. By empowering authors to share their stories, we hope to spark a ripple effect that encourages others to do the same. Together, we can build a world where every voice is valued and every story is heard.

If you are (or you know of) an author with a wonderful story to publish, please have them sign up for updates on Evora Press's launch at jensimpsonbooks.com and/or reach out to me at jensimpsonbooks@gmail.com.

A New Chapter Begins

As I prepare to launch Evora Press, I feel hopeful and excited about what is to come. The delay in releasing "Eva and the Best Day Ever" allows me to focus on something greater. Evora Press is not just about publishing books; it's about forming a community that supports and uplifts authors, especially those navigating the unique challenges of single parenthood.

I invite you to join me on this journey, and together, we 'll build a publishing house that values authors and creates a sense of belonging and support. Stay tuned for updates on our Kickstarter campaign, and thank you for being a part of this exciting new chapter!