015: Self-Expression and Self-Publishing: A Conversation with Author Rachel L. Ertassi Open Book

In this chapter of Open Book, I’m joined by Rachel L. Ertassi, a first-time author from Sacramento, who discusses her debut novel that explores the impact of a new serial murderer on the city of Sacramento from multiple perspectives. 
One of the characters, living with Type 1 Diabetes, is inspired by Rachel’s own experiences as she has been living with it for 20 years and is passionate about raising awareness. Rachel shares the complexities and benefits of writing from multiple perspectives, her approach to incorporating aspects of her life into her storytelling, such as her struggles with T1D, working in the beer industry, and personal views on therapy. 
She also reflects on the self-publishing process through Archway, a division of Simon & Schuster, and the support from the Sacramento community. Rachel encourages authors to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in their writing and shares her aspiration to be recognized alongside renowned authors like Stephen King.
Connect with Rachel 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rlertassiauthor
JDRF: https://www.jdrf.org
Book: City of Trees City of Shadows
Connect with Jessica
Website: https://www.jessicasorentino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasorentino
Substack: https://jessicasorentino.substack.com