Author Spotlight: Cassandra Elizzabeth

Q&A with Cassandra Elizzabeth

Join us as we explore Cassandra Elizzabeth’s writing journey and process. We will look into her reasoning for self-publishing and why she partnered with 48 Hour Books as her printing partner.

Elizzabeth’s Writing Process

Describe your writing process. Do you have a routine?

I write mostly at night, once my kids are in bed. In summer, I love writing on the porch by tiki torchlight, but in the colder months, I light a candle in my office. While I prefer being outside, I try to keep the same cozy ambiance wherever I write.

What inspires you to write?

Writing is my personal escape. As a woman who wears many hats for others, writing is the one thing I do just for me. It’s my creative outlet where I can channel all my joy, sadness, anger, and fear into building a world entirely within my control.

What is one piece of writing advice you would give to other authors?

It’s never too late to become an author! If you have a story inside of you, tell it.

What do you view as the hardest thing about writing a book?

Getting your story to readers. For me, marketing is the most challenging part of the process.

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? If so, how long does it usually last?

Absolutely. After finishing book one, I knew where the series was going but couldn’t quite plot it out in my head. I let the story simmer for a few weeks, and eventually, the ideas started flowing again.

Any tips you would like to share to overcome it?

When I need a break, I turn to books, movies, and TV shows to refill my creative tank. Immersing myself in other stories always helps spark new ideas.

Who are some of your favorite authors, or who inspires you?

Diana Gabaldon is my all-time favorite. One of my most cherished memories is taking my mom to meet her and get our books signed. My mother was a huge influence, passing her love of reading on to me—I even snuck her bodice rippers as a teenager (not that she knew!).

The Self-Publishing and Printing Process

Why did you choose to self-publish your book?

As an author in my forties, I didn’t want to spend years querying publishers. I wanted to share my story on my terms and have complete control over the process.

As a self-published author, what was the most difficult part of the process?

Marketing. It’s definitely marketing! Thankfully, I have an amazing cover designer, a skilled editor, and 48 Hour Books to make printing easy, which helps lighten the load.

How did you conceptualize the look of your books? Can you tell us what kind of binding or cover design you used and why?

I wanted an affordable special edition that felt extra special, so I included custom two-page chapter art for each POV. For the cover, I chose the clear 3D option to give it an elegant, eye-catching finish.

How did 48 Hour Books support you in the self-publishing process?

The team at 48 Hour Books was incredibly patient during the back-and-forth of finalizing the clear 3D covers. Their seamless upload process and excellent customer service made everything easier.

Any advice you would like to give to aspiring writers or authors looking to self-publish?

Build a solid team. Invest in a talented designer, an experienced editor, and a reliable printer.

What is the most rewarding part of releasing a book?

Holding your book in your hands for the first time is pure magic—it’s a moment of incredible accomplishment and pride.

Where can people find your books and follow you?

My books are available on Etsy and TikTok Shop. You can follow me on Instagram and TikTok @cassandraelizzabeth.

Print with 48 Hour Books

If you are ready to start the self-publishing process, 48 Hour Books can help. Contact us today to learn more about how you can make your publishing dreams a reality.