
Steven was stalled with his writing, struggling to stay true to his thoughts, and searching for someone to mirror his growth:
Before Steven published with Hezzie Mae, he was struggling to even begin his memoir, not fully realizing that the biggest obstacle in his way was his own ego. As a first-time author, Steven faced the challenges of navigating the professional writing world, feeling “green” and unaware of what he didn’t yet know.
Despite his passion for telling his story, he needed guidance and support to stay true to his thoughts and recollections while refining his writing for an audience.
He describes feeling like he was in search of someone to mirror his growth, saying, “I needed love… persistent love and guidance.” Without that nurturing presence, his writing journey had stalled, leaving him in need of a mentor to help bring his memoir to life.


Here’s how Hezzie Mae helped Steven get out of his own way so he could bring his memoir to life:
- Created a safe space for him to share his vision, co-developing a plan for developing his memoir and empowering him to show up vulnerably, transforming doubt into confidence as he brought his story to life.
- Aligned his personal journey and creative vision, providing essential services such as custom interior and cover design and securing an ISBN number so he could publish a book that resonates with readers.
- Facilitated multiple rounds of editing—developmental, beta, copy, and line—to ensure the very best version of his book was ready for readers.
- Discussed his request to support specific non-profit organizations whose residents could benefit from his book, aligning it with his broader vision for more impactful work.
- Developed the book in multiple formats, including paperback, hardcover with a dust jacket, and ebook, so that his book’s marketing strategy would align and enhance its appeal to a broader audience.


Steven finally published his book and experienced transformative shifts in his writing and personal growth:
As a result of working with Hezzie Mae, Steven experienced a transformative shift in both his writing and personal growth. His memoir came to life through a collaborative, nurturing process that allowed him to stay true to his voice while refining his writing for an audience.
Steven describes the journey as “immensely enjoyable,” crediting Heather’s “gentle persistence” and “laser-focused attention” for helping him grow as both a writer and a person.
Now, not only does he feel more confident in his ability to write and edit, but he’s also caught the “writing bug,” regularly blogging and working on his second book. Steven feels deeply grateful for the mentorship and partnership, calling Heather “next-level unicorn” and expressing his excitement for future collaborations.

“Heather mirrored my growth and helped me stay true to my voice. I felt like I had a true mentor and partner in the journey.”
Working with Heather was transformative. Her gentle persistence and acute sense of my writing style were paramount to my morale and success. Heather mirrored my growth and guided me with unwavering love and nurturing, turning the process into a beautiful flow.
I came to realize she was more than just a publisher—she was a therapist, benchmark, and inspiration. After working with her, my writing is more refined, approachable, and confident. I’m now writing my second book and couldn’t be more excited to continue this journey with her. Heather is truly a next-level UNICORN!
Steven Louis-Ari Peyer, Author of One Man’s Murmuration

