Duality and Dialogue: The Women Who Lift Me Up

When I reflect on my life’s journey—both in overcoming personal challenges and pushing forward in my creative career—one thing is abundantly clear: I would not be where I am without the unwavering support of two extraordinary women. These amazing souls, my wife and my mother, have been the pillars of my strength. They not only provide emotional grounding but also bring their unique talents into my projects, transforming dreams into reality. This blog is a tribute to their love, skill, and irreplaceable presence in my life.

My Wife: Monique Kemper DeSalvo – Editor, Narrator, Sound Editor, and Partner-in-Creation

Monique is far more than just my wife; she is my creative partner in every sense of the word. Together, we’ve navigated the rocky roads of mental health, blended family challenges, and ambitious creative pursuits. Her background in journalism, coupled with her expertise in sound editing from her days in radio, has been instrumental in our projects. She is the editor, narrator, and sound editor for the re-release of Ethereal Ascendent, and she pours her heart into every sentence and spoken word.

What I admire most about Monique is her dedication. She often works late into the night, editing manuscripts or recording narration, and does so with the same passion she brings to every part of our life together. Her voice literally brings my characters to life, and her sharp editorial eye ensures that my work shines in its best possible form. We often joke about being “sparring partners,” but it’s true—in the best way. We challenge each other, offer honest feedback, and constantly push one another to grow both personally and creatively.

My Mom: The Graphic Design Mastermind

Then there’s my mom, the unsung hero behind the scenes. With over 30 years of experience in graphic design, she is the mastermind behind the stunning cover art for all three books in my series. Her artistic talent is second to none, and her attention to detail is what makes my books stand out visually.

But my mom’s support goes way beyond design. After my mental breakdown following college, she was there for me when I needed it the most, offering not only emotional support but also guiding me back into the creative world. It was because of her influence that I found my way into video game design, which opened up new doors of creativity for me. She believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Together We Rise: The Importance of Collaboration and Communication

What makes this team so effective is our ability to communicate openly. Whether it's brainstorming new concepts, refining details, or offering constructive criticism, we rely on transparent dialogue to bring our projects to life. Both Monique and my mom have taught me that great things happen when you collaborate with those who understand you, push you, and believe in your vision. Communication is the backbone of our creative process, and it’s also been essential in my recovery. Having that network of support has allowed me to heal, grow, and continue pursuing my passion.

Facing Mental Health Challenges Together

My mental health journey has been a significant part of my story. Living with bipolar schizoaffective disorder hasn’t been easy, but with the strength of Monique and my mom behind me, I’ve found resilience. They’ve helped me face my demons, not by fighting them alone but by standing by my side every step of the way. Their support has allowed me to recover in ways doctors thought weren’t possible. They told me I’d be bound to my family home for life, but here I am, living independently and creatively on a faraway island with a new family and exciting projects ahead.

Looking Ahead: Book 2—Zodiac’s Fall

With the release of Book 1, Ethereal Ascendent, behind us, the team is ready to dive into Book 2: Zodiac’s Fall. This next installment in the series brings new challenges, new worlds, and deeper connections between the characters and the mystical universe they inhabit. I can’t wait to share more about the process, the artwork (again, beautifully done by my mom), and the journey of bringing this book to life. Monique will once again lend her voice as narrator, and together, we’ll continue to refine the sound, the words, and the essence of this tale.

Stay tuned for more updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and a glimpse into the creative magic that comes from the power of the team. I couldn’t have done any of this alone, and I wouldn’t want to. These women are my heroes, and I’m so excited to continue this journey with them by my side.