Meet debut author C.I. Jerez
Author of AT THE ISLAND’S EDGE, debuting March 18, 2025
I recently had an early reader send me a DM (direct message) on Instagram asking if I’d really served in the military because the first chapter of the book felt so “real.” I was honored to say, “Yes! I served in the U.S. Army for nine years.”
But I’ll admit, I NEVER thought my time in uniform (a dream I’d begun to formulate in high school) would be the bridge to my lifelong dream of becoming a writer. I grew up in El Paso, Texas, and many of my friends from elementary school are still Facebook friends with me today. It’s pretty funny when they tell me, “We knew you were going to grow up and write books. You were always reading!” It’s true. I also participated in the spelling bee three years in a row beginning in the 5th grade and won two of them for my school. I’ll never forget the first time when I lost by misspelling the word “trinket.” I added a “c,” but I’m over it, honestly I am. (Smiling).
I’ve been really fortunate in this life that despite what felt like insurmountable hurdles at times, I’ve been able to realize almost all of my biggest dreams. I still have a few tucked away beneath silent prayers, but for the most part, I’ve also bet on myself, knowing that if I really believe I’m called to do something, I won’t give up until I cross the finish line. It’s a trait I hope has inspired my children as they navigate their own journey into early adulthood and one that I know has brought me a great deal of peace about my time on this earth–at least so far!
With respect to my debut novel, I hope that the book continues to introduce people to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico in ways they hadn’t known about her before. I hope that the women who’ve bravely served our great nation while donning the uniform feel seen and represented through Lina’s journey. I hope that the moms out there who often wonder if they’re getting it right in an attempt to raise kids, particularly children with special needs, realize there’s no playbook. At the end of the day all you can give is love, compassion, and your best effort. Everything else will fall into place however it was meant to land. Love is always the answer.
Thank you for reading. Without readers there is no writing career. For you, I am forever thankful.