Peggy Arthur

By Peggy Arthur

Greetings!

I had the opportunity to interview my Book Coach, Dianne Pearce of Current Words Publishing. I met Dianne at the 2025 Atlanta Writers Club Self-Publishing Conference this past March, and she helped me gain confidence in myself as a writer.

Please allow me to share this inspiring conversation with you especially if you’re an aspiring writer who loves the creative journey and the stories behind the scenes.

1. What role do you see a book coach playing in a writer’s journey?

“I have ADHD myself, and I balance a lot of responsibilities, just like the authors I work with. In my experience, authors can benefit from a book coach who helps them do what they cannot do on their own—make time to write.

Giving ourselves time is so hard, especially when life is so pressing with its demands, and sometimes depressing too. So, I try, first and foremost, to get the author to the end of the book. The book can reach its end muddy and imperfect, but when it is done, then it can become a book.”

2. How do you balance providing encouragement with offering constructive criticism?

“In book coaching, the place for constructive criticism is only in places where authors may be wasting their time: outlining over and over, reading too many resources, or fretting over something one unhelpful reader said.

I never criticize the writing during the coaching or editing process. A book in process is too fragile for critique. We look at strengths and additions, not cuts and criticism.”

3. What’s your approach to helping writers who feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed?

“We have to both be jazzed about the book. If it feels like eating leftovers when you want to go out to dinner, you won’t do it.

Sometimes I offer creative exercises, like writing a scene from another character’s viewpoint or making a character trading card. These kinds of playful exercises often reignite the spark.”

4. You’ve taught at an HBCU—what did that experience teach you?

“I taught at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore for about five years. When I arrived, I didn’t even know what HBCU or PWI meant.

What I saw was two things: students who really cared, and an institution that was woefully underfunded compared to others I’d taught at. It was also in a rural area where locals weren’t very supportive, and the campus police presence was intense.

I came away with an understanding of why HBCUs are needed and how unfairly they’re treated.”

5. How has your experience as an educator shaped your coaching approach?

“As an adjunct, I’ve had as many as 130 students in a semester. Early on, I taught content and hoped they got it. Later, I realized most students didn’t believe they belonged in college.

I started meeting each student where they were staying after class, helping with other subjects, just being there. That same spirit carries into coaching: helping writers believe they belong in the writing world.”

6. What stood out to you about my project and made you excited to coach me?

“Two things:

1. You were excited about your book but doubted yourself. Yet, I could see your strength and entrepreneurial spirit—you’re a hustler, and I respect that.
2. Your book is a modern myth! Who thinks up a whole mythology? I loved that. It’s female-focused and powerful.”

7. From your perspective, how have I grown as a writer so far?

“You’ve gained confidence in your story and commitment to the writer’s path. It’s not easy, but you’re realizing you know what makes a good story. You’re claiming your identity as a novelist.”

8. What advice do you have for me as I near the end of my first draft?

“Celebrate. Over 80% of adults want to write a novel, and few ever do.

For the rest of your life, no one can take away the fact that you wrote a whole book and an exciting, original one at that. Fire anyone who makes you feel otherwise.”

9. Why might someone consider hiring a book coach instead of (or in addition to) an editor?

“If the book is done you need an editor. If the book isn’t done and you can’t finish it’s time for a coach.

Most authors I’ve worked with finish their unfinishable book in two to five months. A good coach makes you want to finish.”

10. How can writers get the most out of coaching?

“Choose a time when your schedule allows focus don’t start during your busiest season.

Also, never feel ashamed of your budget. Whether it’s one session a month or every other month, that’s valid. A good coach works on your schedule.”

11. What advice do you have for first-time authors ready to publish?

“Watch my publishing webinar, it’s free, just requires your email.

Traditional book deals are incredibly rare, but we live in a time when no one can stop you from publishing. Yes, it takes effort, money, and persistence. Your first book won’t make you rich but your third might. Save your Starbucks money for your book fund!”

12. What’s one piece of wisdom for writers considering coaching?

“The coach doesn’t need to be local or the same gender, but they do need to be for you, affordable, kind, and invested in your success.

The right coach should feel like an advocate, not a boss. You should matter to them.”

Final Thoughts

Working with Dianne has been one of the most encouraging parts of my writing journey. Her approach is both honest and empowering, reminding me that writing a book is as much about believing in yourself as it is about finishing the manuscript.

If you’d like to learn more about Dianne Pearce and Current Words Publishing, visit:
https://www.currentwords.com

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