The journey to becoming a published author often begins with a simple love of reading. For Denise Spitznogle, the author of Beauty and the Billionaire that childhood passion led to creating small flip books with pictures and having their father write the words.
After discovering Inkitt through her mother (who was already an active user), she decided to join and post her work. Though relatively new to the platform—having only used it for about a year—her story caught attention in a meaningful way.
The Inkitt Experience
One of the most exciting aspects of publishing on Inkitt was seeing reader engagement. The author recalls that the first review was particularly significant, marking the moment when “it really sunk in that my writing was out there for the world to see.” Every comment and review brought excitement, with each notification becoming a shared experience between the author and her mother.
While the analytics and engagement features didn’t significantly shape the author’s story (as it was already completed before posting), reader feedback did influence one important change—rewriting the ending based on comments from readers who wanted to know more about where the characters ended up.
The Galatea Breakthrough
In January, the author received life-changing news—Galatea wanted to publish her book. The moment was overwhelming: “I cried. My husband thought something was wrong with me, and when I told him someone reached out about publishing my book, he was so supportive!”
Looking ahead to the Galatea publication, the author shares that she’s most excited simply about having her work available to a wider audience: “I’m very proud of the book, and all the work that’s gone into it, and will continue to go into it.”
Advice for Aspiring Inkitt Authors
For those hoping to follow a similar path to Galatea publication, the author offers this key insight: “Write for yourself, not with the goal of being published.”
Her own story wasn’t initially intended for posting anywhere, and it took a full year on Inkitt before Galatea reached out.
When asked about what led to her signing, the author admits uncertainty: “I posted my book to get some feedback on my writing style and, thankfully, it was noticed.”
Writing Process and Motivation
On staying motivated during tough writing days: “I stay motivated by not forcing it… sometimes it’s only 200 words. But those 200 days are still 200 more words than I had yesterday.” The author emphasizes that “Progress isn’t just word count”—sometimes it’s creating mood boards or seeking inspiration.
One piece of writing advice that has stuck with her: “Not to rewrite as you go or you’ll never finish it. Write, keep writing until it’s finished. Then do rewrites.”
For character development, she typically starts with a basic idea—“A girl with a dilemma, A girl with emerald eyes, A girl who loves to cook”—and builds other characters around what the protagonist needs. Characters often surprise her: “Sometimes… one of my characters will do or say something that I didn’t see coming until it’s already half way on the page.”
The author’s recurring theme centers on love: “Finding love, losing love, learning to love yourself. If there’s anything to be taken away from my stories it’s that love comes in so many forms and all of them are beautiful.”
Final Thoughts
Denise Spitznogle’s story is proof that writing from the heart—and staying true to your own pace—can lead to something incredible. Her advice to “write for yourself” is a powerful takeaway for any writer navigating the ups and downs of creativity. Beauty and a Billionaire may have started as a personal project, but thanks to Denise’s talent and perseverance—and a little help from the Inkitt and Galatea community—it’s now reaching readers around the world. We can’t wait to see what she writes next!
