Illustrator Gina Wojitysiak, and Graphic Designer Crystal Cregge
Carin Jayne Casey, Chester, VA
A New Song Rises Up! Sharing Struggles Toward Salvation
September 29, 2020
Before publishing ‘A New Song Rises Up!’ and the Study Guide, it had been over five years since my previous books. But I still vividly remember the emotionally painful struggles I faced with various editor criticism that ensued during that very personal process.
She was always patient, even when I would suddenly need to add or change content and when I was demanding with cover design. Writing began late January/early February with release scheduled for September 29, 2020. In addition to all the complications that come with the COVID-19, we traveled through this Pandemic era with unique personal challenges (i.e., my son’s passing and Kim’s health emergency).
Not with Kim! Her comments were always upbeat, positive, encouraging, and kind. With Kim working with me, editing was a fun portion to birthing these creations.
Kim brought me awesome resource references and helped me every step of the way through the launch – a wonderful experience to cherish. We made it! I sincerely appreciate all that Kim did along our journey so I can now share my message of hope to the world. I recommend Kim for your book journey!
Dr. Kimberly Matthews, Richmond, VA
“Kim is so knowledgeable about the publishing process that she makes it look easy. Kim is a delight to work with, she made my dream come true of becoming a children’s book author.”
Angela B. Brown, Petersburg, VA
Co-Author, “Mary Tells Her Story”
Their collaboration, Mary Tells Her Story: The True Founder of Yeshua’s House, is the compilation of stories from Angela’s mother, Mary. Mary lost her mother at an early age from domestic violence. Grandmother Angela’s tragic end in 1917 had bright beginnings in 2013. Her stories are poignant, sometimes hilarious, and sometimes utterly heartbreaking. Mary Tells Her Story was published in October 2019, and all proceeds go towards Yeshua’s House. Click here to purchase your copy on Amazon.
“Writing a book can be a lonely process unless you have someone who is also invested in it. Kim Wells Eley was invested in the process of bringing Mary Tells Her Story to light. Kim, in editor mode, broke the news to me: Mom’s orally recorded stream of consciousness memories were hard to follow. After corralling Mom’s loping thoughts into chapters, even I had a greater appreciation for Mom’s life.” ~Angela B. Brown
DeNita Turner, Glen Allen, VA
Author of “Pass the Word”
“Kim is creative, professional, talented, and a joy to work with.”
Angela Edwards, Richmond, VA
Co-Author of “Gutsy Tales Off the Rails”
“Kim Eley has been wonderful to work with. Our group of storytellers decided to put our stories into a book, and Kim was there for us every step of the journey. She not only made the process painless, but turned it into a fun adventure for us all. Kim advised the group and guided us through the process while managing input from each individual. As if that weren’t enough, she guided each of us through the same process with our own individual books. Kim is an amazing person with a can-do attitude, a sense of fun, and an amazing knowledge of publishing. I highly recommend working with Kim and KWE Publishing to anyone thinking of publishing their book. “
Rachel M, Canby, OR
“Kim Eley was a WONDERFUL editor to work with; especially on my first book when the process felt somewhat overwhelming and scary. Kim took all the scary out of it and made the tedious process of editing a whole lot more manageable and fun. I heard the phrase, “Editors just want to rewrite your book!” and I can actually say this is NOT the case whatsoever with Kim. Instead, she enhances your work, while preserving your “voice” throughout the writing process. Kim is now, not only my Editor, but a friend as well. I highly recommend KWE Publishing for your next book.”
Mary Beth Thompsen, Richmond, VA
Mary Beth has been working on writing her book for about 10 years. She came to the KWE Publishing Writing Retreat in Blackstone March 15-17, 2019 and got inspired! Check out her testimonial.
Magdaline D., MD
“The Weekend Writer’s Retreat was exactly what I needed to light a fire under me and get me writing again. The workshops provided by Kim outlined the writing process, from start to finish, and the fellowship among the authors was phenomenal. I feel so blessed to have been a part of this amazing weekend. Not only did I start my book, but I also made some new friendships for life. Thank you again Kim – can’t wait till the next one!!”
Diana Parra, M.A., Phoenix, AZ
Author of “Leading With a Broken Heart”
“Kim is a phenomenal writing coach and publisher. With her coaching I published my first book and met my publishing deadline. Throughout the process, Kim provided direction, excellent feedback, and insight. Her perspective was invaluable and with her guidance the integrity of my book and it’s message were maintained. She was so fun to work with and her laughter is infectious. I highly recommend Kim and I look forward to working with her again in the future. “
Lisa Bennett, Richmond, VA
Lisa is an awesome optometrist on a mission! She’s writing her first book (YAY!) to encourage parents to get their kids’ eyes checked…and she’s using a children’s book format to write it! She and Kim are collaborating on her book which will be released in 2021. She talks about the KWEPUB Writing Retreat held March 15-17, 2019.
Etta H. Bond, Henrico, VA
Author of “Reaching New Heights: Poems of Inspiration”
“For the past year, I have worked with Kim Eley on a lifelong dream of writing a book of poetry. As a result of having the opportunity to work with her, I am very proud to say that my dream is now a reality. It can often prove to be a challenging task when one works toward accomplishing the goal of writing a book; however, I am a firm believer that having the right person working along with you makes all the difference. Someone that is easy to work with, knowledgeable, considerate, focused, and I certainly don’t want to leave out her bubbly personality, which makes it more a delight to work with her. When an individual is working with a person that possesses these types of characteristics, who thinks about quitting? I count it a privilege to have worked with Kim in publishing my very first book of poetry, and I am so looking forward to working with her with publishing other books.”
Heather LeRoss, Seattle, WA
Author of “Just Tell Me I’m Pretty!”
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Kim on editing my book. Kim followed up with me right away after I sent her the manuscript, asking about my audience, my goals and what exactly I was looking for from her. She gave me a time-frame for completion and finished long before estimation. Her feedback was warm, kind and thoughtful, and showed me she had read the entire book. She gave careful thought to her suggestions, all of which were spot on. I’d work with and recommend Kim for anyone who wants a thorough review of their work, delivered with sincerity and the gentleness all writers hope for when reviewing feedback on their projects.” (2017)
Heather Z., Fargo, ND
“Kim’s infectious enthusiasm and encouragement inspired me to share my stories with her after which she provided succinct and productive feedback. This process of sharing my story and getting her feedback busted me through my writing blocks. She also gave me great tidbits of wisdom on how to overcome my limiting thoughts and beliefs. Her infectious laugh can convince any avoidant writer to cut the excuses and get down to business. I thought writing had to be painful, but Kim makes it fun again!” (2017)
Valerie McCloud, Midlothian, VA
Author Valerie arrived at the retreat with one book idea in mind. After our strategy session, she realized she wanted to pursue another book idea! The retreat was held March 15-17, 2019.
Yemaja Jubilee and L. Roi Boyd III, Richmond VA
Kim Eley with Yemaja Jubilee, author of “Couldn’t Keep It To Myself,” at top, and L. Roi Boyd III, aka “Professor Pop Culture,” author of “Bless His Soul: The Agony, The Ecstasy, and The Destiny of Michael Jackson”, at bottom. Taken at the Cultural Libations event on March 23, 2018.
Emma N., Prince George, VA
“Kim Eley was part of my support team when I decided to return to school after 22 years to pursue my Master of Business Administration degree and she is part of my support team on journey to obtain my doctoral degree. She reviewed my papers to ensure that I used the proper format, grammar, and punctuation. She did an excellent job reviewing and editing my work which led to her reviewing and editing my son’s work while working on his doctoral degree which he received in 2013. Everyone needs a person like Kim Eley on their team. Having Kim review and edit my work gives me a sense of relief and confidence that my work is exceptional.”
Dyanne J., Franklin, VA
“Kim makes the writing and publishing process feel so achievable.”
Catherine S., San Diego, CA
“Kim is an excellent communicator. She listens attentively, responds with grace to any questions, and makes sure that everyone on the team is well-represented and included in discussions. She was attentive and responsive to the needs of our project and as issues came up, she was very professional in how she handled the challenges.” (2018)
Pamela P., Prince George, VA
“I met Kim during Christmas at Panera’s. I call her my Christmas miracle because I was in great need of learning more about the writing process. Kim and I met weekly for a few months. She guided me through the process of changing my manuscript into third person, pointed out several key factors, and was actively involved through the process. We shared invaluable information about the writing field and marketing. It’s true she has a bubbly personality that you will enjoy while you’re in her care. I plan to continue to work with Kim through the process as I navigate my way through the field of writing and publishing. Thank you, Kim, for your support and friendship.”
Roberta C. Manakin Author of Sheep & the Shepherd Sabot, VA
“Kim Eley took my manuscript and turned it into a beautiful book! Her own publishing experience enabled her to give advice throughout the process. She was very helpful with details and even suggested a way to make the color of the text visually compatible with the illustrations in a pleasing way. Her many contacts made expertise available when needed to address unusual aspects. Graphic designers were called on for help for small details. As a first-time author with no knowledge of publishing protocol, I found her help essential and her resources invaluable.”
Jonathan Addleston
In a word, she is a ‘gem’…She is a great presenter who connects exceptionally well with her audience.
Aideen F., Columbia, MD
“I have worked with Kim several times during the rewrites of my manuscript and her input has been INVALUABLE! I think every writer, especially those of us who are just starting out, shares their work with fear and trepidation, like a mother leaving her baby at daycare for the first time; we desperately hope that our work will be loved, respected, and cared for as much as we love, respect, and care for it. In Kim, I have found the most loving and nurturing caregiver for my work and for myself as a writer! She has given me the perfect balance of encouraging positive feedback and productive constructive criticism. My work and I as a writer are worlds better because of Kim’s input and guidance and I will be forever grateful to her!”
Heidi Mount, author of Hidden Treasures, Kailua-Kona, HI
“I hired Kim Eley to help me publish my book. I had no time, didn’t know how to write or publish a book, didn’t know how to make it interesting, didn’t know how to make decisions about the length of the book, didn’t know how to launch or market it, didn’t know how to price it, and didn’t have the writing skills to make it flow! She took me from A to Z and worked her butt off for me. Launching the book was much harder than I imagined and there is no way I could have done it without her help. She met me at a video conference, I told her my story, and she wrote it. She made sure it was “my voice” and personality and it turned out perfect. She was on time and very responsive. Kim had all the connections for book cover design, voice actors, editors, etc. She handled all the details for my book. We came up with a marketing plan and I launched it July 27, 2021. Within 3 hours I hit #1 best new release!”
Mary Foley, Business Coach, Richmond, VA
“Kim Eley is a Book Whisperer! She has the uncanny ability to draw out your passion and your story and then transform it into a fully-fledged printed book. Working with her as a business coach I’ve seen her do this again and again and again. I’m pretty sure she has a magic wand! She and her team certainly make it all feel magical.”
Sherri Spaulding, Richmond, VA
“Kim is a dream to work with. I have a few shortcomings when it comes to computers, and she was very patient and understanding. I felt like she really went above and beyond what I expected. She made sure I was aware of everything throughout the process. I highly recommend KWE publishing.“
Robin F. Anderson, author of Here, Hold My Wine: Robin’s Practical and Impractical Guide to Life, Vintage 2019, Mineral, VA.
“When I decided to write my first book, I had no idea how to even get started. A good friend suggested I contact Kim. From the moment I met Kim, we connected. She knew exactly how to put me at ease with the process and I put my full confidence in her to help guide me. Kim is extremely smart, always willing to help a ‘rookie’ in the writing business and I know I would have missed a great opportunity to complete a goal I had with extending my writing career. If you want someone you can trust, who is always there for you and gives you fantastic advice, I strongly recommend Kim. You cannot go wrong with her by your side.”
Mark Winn, author of Grounded and Not a Victim But a Warrior, Richmond, VA
“I have done two book projects completed and starting on my next with KWE Publishing. I could not have completed them without Kim Eley and her team. She always makes sure all the bases are covered and your projects are successful. I have recommended her to many people that have a book in them to get out. Don’t wait, if there is a book in you and you have a message that needs to get out. Reach out to KWE Publishing, you will be glad you did.”
Courtenay Baber, author of Recollections: A Journey of Courage and Abuse, Powhatan, VA
“KWE Publishing was wonderful to work with in publishing a book that my mother had written several years earlier. She has been wonderful in explaining the process and working with me in getting the book edited picking out covers reviewed marketed and published. She is wonderful at her job and person to work with. It has been a joy to work with Kim and her team.”
Katherine Kise, author of Katie Can’t Eat Nuts: The Ordinary Extraordinary Life of a Girl With Food Allergies, Atlanta, GA
“KWE Publishing is a wonderfully collaborative, effective partner for authors of all levels of experience and expertise and engages and advises with an eye on business results. KWE leverages robust experience in publishing, editing, technological solutions/innovation, brand building and awareness, and project/program management to serve my small business in both an operational and a consulting capacity. My experience as a first-time author working with KWE has been incredibly positive, and I would strongly recommend KWE for any author looking to make a splash with his/her forthcoming book(s)!”
Patti Hornstra, author of When He Was Anna: A Mom’s Journey into the Transgender World, Richmond, VA.
“Kim helped me publish my first book! She’s knowledgeable and professional. She kept me on track; her guidance was invaluable. She’s always willing to help and is so easy to work with!”
Gina McKenzie, Atlanta, GA
“Kim is amazing and I would highly recommend her and her team at KWE to my PR clients! Her spirit and energy are infectious, and her knowledge of publishing is unparalleled. KWE is top notch!”
Valerie James Abbott, author of Padapillo, Richmond, VA
“Kim Eley was a dream to work with. She took my idea of publishing our family’s story all the way from rough manuscript to a fully illustrated, beautiful book. #1 New Release on Amazon, too! No question ever went unanswered. She worked so hard on my behalf, and with a very tight deadline. I highly recommend Kim Eley at KWE Publishing to anyone interested in publishing a book.”
Christopher Harris, author of How to Own Working From Home: The Pandemic Edition
“We had to fire our previous publisher because the lag time between communications was so bad it pushed our publish date back two months. Almost in tears, we came to Kim to get this to print as fast as possible. Although there were multiple hiccups, Kim worked around the clock to get our e-book and paperback available for purchase in under 10 days! She’s a miracle worker!” – Chris Harris
“Kim saved our butts. She saved us when our current publisher was delaying our project and costing us thousands of dollars. She went above and beyond (that is an understatement!) to ensure not only that our book got published but that it would reach the most individuals, make the most impact, and relieve the most amount of stress off our shoulders in the process. She is an angel, amazing, and this being the second book I have published with her I will NEVER use another publisher again! Cannot say enough good things!” – Bunny Young
Dasha Dent, author of You Are a Star!, Chester, VA
“Working with Kim has been amazing! I have had a wonderful experience with KWE Publishing. Kim is very professional and fun. She has helped me take my book from paper to publication and made the process easy. Kim is an amazing publisher, has a great sense of humor and it’s just been a blast working with her. Nothing but good things to say about KWE Publishing!”
former Richmond City Councilman, Chuck Richardson,
author of Cease Fire! Cease Fire! A Hero(in) Addiction
I would highly recommend KWE Publishing to any work in the publishing industry. The company was thorough, competent, and possessed a broad range of knowledge in every aspect of the business. I was completely satisfied with the finished product, its timely delivery, and the honesty with which their work matched the integrity of their words. You will be satisfied with any agreement you establish with KWE Publishing. As a former City Councilman, I have been often disappointed in the failure of companies that fell short of my expectations, however, KWE Publishing exceeded them!
