Client Spotlight: Celebrating the Release of Starting Today

There’s something really special about watching a debut novel come to life, especially when you’ve had a front-row seat to its journey. Today, I’m so excited to celebrate Starting Today, the debut novel from indie romance author A. Echo.

This emotionally layered contemporary romance is equal parts heartwarming and gut-wrenching, full of hope, healing, and the courage to start over. Starting Today is the first book in the Healing Us trilogy, and A. Echo brings a quiet power to the page that sets the tone for the series. It’s the kind of story that lingers long after you finish the last chapter.

That said, this book doesn’t shy away from tough topics. It includes several trigger warnings like grief, emotional abuse, and past trauma, and handles them with care and honesty. If you're a reader who loves a romance with emotional depth, raw vulnerability, and a strong undercurrent of hope, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.

"Writing Starting Today was an emotional and challenging journey. It's not the usual narrative of finding the strength to leave, but instead, it’s about how he [the MMC] found the strength to change. Reliving the trauma of my past wasn’t easy, but I felt compelled to share my story so that others who have lived through similar experiences know they’re not alone."

- A. Echo, Starting Today

As part of the editorial team, I had the pleasure of working with A. Echo during the final stages of this story’s journey. While the developmental work had already laid a strong foundation, I focused on copyediting and proofreading, refining the prose, smoothing transitions, and polishing things up for publication. Even in the smallest details, A. Echo’s sincerity shines through. Every scene feels emotionally grounded and intentional, and that’s what makes this debut so impactful.

"After living with my book for two years and only sharing it with my wife and a few beta readers, I knew I needed professional feedback I could trust. Cynthia provided exactly that. Her manuscript review was insightful, encouraging, and incredibly thorough. Beyond her keen editorial eye, she was a true teammate in the process—always available, patient, and communicative. Writing can be a lonely business, but working with Cynthia made it feel like I had someone in my corner, helping me see my book through to the finish line. I already know who’s editing my next book!"

- Ray Goodrich, Nature of Evil

If you're in the mood for a romance that embraces complex healing, second chances, and characters who fight for their future, Starting Today is now available on Amazon.

✨ Congratulations, A. Echo, on your powerful and heartfelt debut, and thank you for trusting me to be part of your journey!

Curious about what goes into polishing an indie book for publication?

This is the first in a new series of client spotlights where I’ll be celebrating the amazing authors I’ve had the honor of working with. If you're interested in learning more about my editorial services or want to see how we can bring your story to the finish line, you can visit my services page here.

HEY, I’M CYNTHIA…

Welcome to my personal book haven! I’m all about diving into stories and chatting with fellow bookworms.

I read pretty much anything and everything in the fiction world, except for horror (it’s just a little too spooky for me!). But give me a twisted psychological thriller, and I’m in.

I also love reading ARCs (advance reader copies), so you’ll often find my reviews up before or right on the book's publication day.

Happy reading, and let’s get lost in stories together!

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📚✨ May your bookshelf always lead to love, suspense, and the unexpected.