Best Indie Choice Award Winner: Shelley Malicote Stutchman

Quill Hawk Publishing sits with Shelley Malicote Stutchman, our 2024 Best Indie Choice award winner for her nonfiction book, PEEK-A-BOOB: Uncovering Breast Cancer.

QHP: Hi, Shelley! Congratulations on winning QHP's Best Indie Choice of 2024 for your nonfiction book! Tell us about your book and what inspired you to write it?

Shelley: My book, PEEK-A-BOOB: Uncovering Breast Cancer, emerged from the most vulnerable parts of my breast cancer journey. During my fight with cancer, I discovered strength in unexpected ways. The compassionate medical team, the courageous women I met in support groups, and my sister, who had also overcome this illness, were my pillars. Yet, it was my husband's strength that kept me from falling apart. Even though we weren't married when I was diagnosed, he stood by me through every treatment and surgery when he could have easily walked away. Instead of cancer drawing us apart, we became an unbreakable team. These experiences inspired me to share my story with the world with the hope of inspiring and encouraging others who face similar challenges.

QHP: Wow, that's so profound and I love how your fiancé, now husband, was your rock through all this. You two are truly a great team! What projects are you working on now?

Shelley: I'm creating a journal, and if you know me, you know I never do things small. This journal will be almost 400 pages long. You might be thinking, "Another journal on the market?" But this one is different. It's a unique journal where I provide prompts and share my responses to them.

Years ago, I owned a small mental health company for women over forty. It was called Blooming Rose, and was designed for women who couldn't afford traditional mental health care. I didn't make any money from this business, nor did the volunteers who had the skills to counsel others. I had a counselor, a minister, and others ready to step in as needed. The clients would participate in activities such as music therapy and art therapy. I had professionals come in to speak in group settings. A doctor in town gave me the space to use for free because he liked the project. The idea was simple: pay what you can or nothing at all. Through this experience, I discovered that healing starts with knowing yourself well. The questions I've included in my journal are designed to provoke deep reflection and to ignite a transformative journey of self-discovery. When you put your emotions, feelings, and beliefs into words, you take a significant step toward self-assurance and strength.

I hope to finish this journal in a few months, but as any writer knows, the work isn't done until it feels right. I'm committed to not publishing until I'm sure it's the tool that can help others on their journey to self-discovery. Stay tuned for updates as I continue this exciting endeavor!

QHP: That's incredible! You are such a giving soul and truly wear your vulnerable heart on your messy sleeves. So brave! So when do you find time to accomplish your goals?

Shelley: Since retiring from my traditional nine-to-five job, I've discovered the importance of finding my sweet spot for productivity. For me, it's from 10:00 a.m. until noon. I like to sleep in, so gone are the days of crack-of-dawn writing sessions at five a.m.—a relic of my working life. I find a second wind in the evening, with creativity flowing from eight until around eleven at night. A quick power nap in the afternoon, lasting anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour, works wonders to recharge my batteries, fueling that evening burst of productivity.

QHP: I am a morning lark myself and fast until 1pm. Then I break my fast with a big meal before I am back at it. Do you have any advice for people getting started with their book project?

Shelley: If you're an aspiring writer, I suggest writing five days a week. Some days you won't want to write, but I've found on those days is when your brilliance will shine through. Don't let negative people dampen your spirit. Writing is personal and a constantly evolving journey. Trust your instincts and your love for the story you're creating. Believe in yourself and your ability to bring your narrative to life on the page.

QHP: That's great advice. How did you get your start?

Shelley: Alone in my childhood room, lying in bed, I was engrossed in a book. The story painted a word picture between a grandfather and his grandson. The grandfather pulled two pieces of butterscotch candy from his pocket, handed one to his grandson, and popped the other into his mouth. The author's descriptions were so vivid that I could taste the sweetness of that candy on my tongue, and my mouth began to water. At that moment, I realized the power of the written word. I was twelve years old, and I knew I wanted to become a writer, turning words into magic.

QHP: OK, now I want a butterscotch candy. I have fond memories of Werther's. So we know about your productivity times and power naps but what does a typical day look like for you?

Shelley: My typical day begins around 8:00 a.m. My husband and I start with a steaming cup of coffee while tuning into business shows to catch the latest stock market trends—cue the emotional rollercoaster of cheering or crying! By nine, I'm in the kitchen whipping up breakfast, usually a protein-packed smoothie straight from the blender.

From ten to noon, it's writing time. I try my best not to get sucked into the black hole of emails or social media. Lunchtime often features a meeting or a hangout with one of my girlfriends. Afternoons are a whirlwind of activity: cleaning the house, tending to the garden, creating videos, marketing my book, responding to emails, and squeezing in a quick nap. I get the call to cover a story for one of the newspapers I write for a few times a week.

Come four or five; it's cocktail hour with my husband. We cozy up in his office in chilly weather, but when the sun's out, you'll find us on the patio or front porch. During hummingbird season, we love watching these little marvels flit about in the evening. My husband usually makes us dinner. He's a great cook, and we try to eat healthy.

In the evening, I retreat to my office to write more and tackle any remaining tasks. Except for our morning ritual of business news, I rarely watch TV. By eleven, I'm in bed, ready to recharge for another day, and I sleep like a baby.

QHP: Amazing! It is so easy to get sucked into social media. I am so guilty of this. I wish I had happy hour and someone to cook me dinner. You're blessed. What are your thoughts on writing contests?

Shelley: There's something exhilarating about writing contests. When I enter contests, I often try genres I don't usually write, pushing my creativity and forcing me to think. The thrill of winning or placing in these contests is a fantastic confidence booster! Sometimes, I doubt my abilities and a contest victory provides that much-needed reassurance. Over the years, I've been fortunate enough to win several awards. Among my favorites are first-place awards from the Non-Fiction Authors Association, the QHP Best Indie Choice of 2024, Writer Con 2024, and the Book Fest first-place award for 2025, all for my book, PEEK-A-BOOB. I was surprised to win a horror story contest for Quill Hawk Publishing and a Flash Fiction piece at WriterCon. While I've also received a few placements at OWFI, I'm still chasing that elusive first place in those contests. Entering these competitions challenges me and adds excitement to my writing journey.

QHP: It is also brave to put your work, your book baby, out there for strangers to judge. But you often do get some feedback on your writing and that makes it a great way to learn about your writing skills. What legacy would you like to leave behind?

Shelley: I hope to leave behind a legacy that I encouraged people.

QHP: Indeed you do. Would you say you’re a pantser or plotter, or a hybrid of the two, ie plantser?

Shelley: Definitely a pantser. My stories unfold as I write them.

QHP: Same! I love that the story and the characters lead the writer! Do you have any favorite moments in your writing/self-publishing journey that you'd like to share?

Shelley: The most cherished moments in my writing journey are when the book I wrote finds a new home. Each sale fills my heart, makes me smile, and fills me with gratitude that someone wants the words I've written. It continues to leave me in awe.

QHP: Books do have a way of finding their intended readers. What have you found is the biggest challenge in writing, publishing, or promoting your book?

Shelley: The biggest hurdle I've faced is in promotion. Initially, I believed that every woman would be interested in my book. That assumption was wrong, wrong, wrong. I learned the importance of identifying niche markets that resonate with my work. I've also learned the necessity of avoiding unproductive markets to conserve my time and resources. Additionally, I've often struggled with the financial burden of marketing costs, finding it challenging to generate enough sales to offset these expenses.

QHP: Yes it is a catch 22 and you have to spend money to make money. Switching gears a moment... What are some interesting facts about yourself?

Shelley: What's interesting about me? Let's start with my singing ability or lack of it. In Kindergarten, the teacher told my parents I couldn't carry a tune, but I sang loudly to make up for it. I often suspect I'm the only one singing on key, and the rest of the world just can't harmonize. Oh, and did I mention I once spent a few minutes on Willie Nelson's bus? Yep, Willie himself was there, and he's the one who invited me in. I've also had the pleasure of a brief chat with Dustin Hoffman. He didn't ask for my autograph, but I'm sure he was tempted.

Then there's the time I was in therapy. My counselor told me it was odd that I never got mad. I think "Zen master" is a better description of me than hot head, but what do I know? Speaking of wild rides, I used to barrel race. I lost every contest. Why? My dad forbade me from using a whip or spurs. He was a WWII Vet and said he had seen enough suffering in his life. But who cared about winning when the Cowboys were so darn cute?

I'm a social butterfly with a hermit side, needing loads of alone time despite loving people. Call it a delightful contradiction! I also shattered a glass ceiling in Oklahoma as the first female chair of the NW Oklahoma Workforce group. Imagine my shock when the White House Marketing Department called me about my leadership role. I was so stunned I blurted out, "The White House of the United States of America?" Pretty sure I heard an eye roll through the phone. But hey, it's not every day someone calls from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue!

QHP: Wow! You are full of surprises, and such a hoot! I think your personality has truly helped you overcome so many challenges in life. I can't whistle but when I try, I'm a great wheezer. Do you have any organizations or nonprofits you work with you’d like to highlight?

Shelley: As a breast cancer survivor, I've developed a deep appreciation for specific nonprofits due to the crucial support they offer to women battling breast cancer. My top three are P31, Susan G. Komen, and Breast Cancer Survivors of Oklahoma.

QHP: Thank you, Shelley. Who do you admire?

Shelley: When asked whom I admire, the answer comes to me without hesitation: my husband. Our story took a challenging turn when I was diagnosed with cancer before we were even married. I offered him a chance to leave, explaining that committing to someone battling breast cancer was a significant undertaking. I assured him there would be no hard feelings if he chose to walk away. Despite the uncertainty of how cancer would impact our lives, he chose to stay and marry me. This is why I hold my husband in such high regard.

QHP: Having met your husband, Neal, whom you affectionately call Cameraman, I can say he's a good soul. Do you have any mentors?

Shelley: When asked if I have any mentors, it's my husband. During his career, he was a CFO. He has shared valuable tips and tricks with me to help me advance in my career. His guidance has been crucial, from writing the perfect email, even when voicing complaints, to demonstrating to my boss that I'm going the extra mile for promotion consideration. He's also taught me about the stock market and how to manage my finances effectively. To me, he's the most handsome and the smartest man I know. My husband is more than my partner; he's my teacher and mentor.

QHP: That's so special! Tell us more about your path to writing.

Shelley: I had an inkling I might become a writer when I was eight. In school, we were to write a one-page story every week for a month and then read it to the class. I came up with a monster called The Spectaula. By the time I wrote my third story, I switched topics, and my classmates were let down that it wasn't about The Spectaula. That's when I realized I might have a knack for writing. I don’t remember a time when publishing a book wasn’t on my mind.

QHP: We need to bring back Spectaula! What is it that most interests you when choosing book topics to publish?

Shelley: I know there is more money in fiction and a larger audience, but I love writing non-fiction.

QHP: Is where you are now where you thought you’d be?

Shelley: Boy, that’s a loaded question. I’m not where I thought I would be, but where I am is a good place to be. I thought I would be a famous journalist breaking news stories wide open. Now, I’m happy that I finally made it to being a news reporter for two small newspapers. I have no regrets.

QHP: Did you have any interesting “odd jobs” you worked at to pay the bills?

Shelley: I fed a herd of goats, and I hated every moment of it. They were mean! My other odd jobs were pretty standard, I worked as a waitress and a lifeguard.

QHP: Yeah those kids are obstinate and not shy! Do you have any other “special skills?”

Shelley: The only special skill I can think of is I’m a pretty decent public speaker.

QHP: I look forward to hearing you speak! Do you have any side projects you’d like to highlight?

Shelley: If tending to my garden and nurturing flowers can be considered a side project, then I'd spotlight that. I give my flowers names, talk to them, kiss, and gently hug them. Does that make me sound like a nut?

QHP: You sound grounded in my opinion! So if you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self?

Shelley: If I could turn back the clock, I'd have a heart-to-heart with my younger self. "Hey, go to college, enjoy the ride, and walk a little bit on the wild side. Don't get married at eighteen."

I'd tell myself to pursue my dreams and earn a journalism degree instead of attending nursing school. I would tell my younger self not to start a family until I was solid in my career. I'd emphasize the importance of understanding money—learn about compounding interest, gain a sense of the stock market, and commit to long-term investing. If only eighteen-year-old me had this wisdom!

QHP: Great advice, especially the finances. We are so illiterate when it comes to how money and economics work. It truly is a great life lesson. What skills or tools did you find to be the most helpful in getting your book into the hands of readers?

Shelley: I would have been petrified without the support of Quill Hawk Publishing. If it weren't for you, Amy, my story would still be sitting on my computer drive. Quill Hawk Publishing provided me with the tools and confidence I needed to transform my typed words into a tangible book. That book is now in the hands of others, helping them, which is why I wrote the book.

QHP: We love being a part of your journey! Shelley, where did you study at?

Shelley: After high school, I studied at OT Autry Vo-Tech, Northwestern University, and the University of Oklahoma.

QHP: And what would you say is your greatest accomplishment?

Shelley: At last, a simple question. My most significant achievement is surviving cancer. Not too long ago, many women didn't overcome this illness, and I am truly thankful.

QHP: I am glad you are here and sharing your cancer story and lessons with the world. What are some goals you hope to achieve?

Shelley: Make more money writing, lose more weight, exercise more, live in the present, and stop worrying about my children so much… they are adults!

QHP: What do you love most about what you do?

Shelley: What I love about being an author is the feeling I get when seated in front of my keyboard. It's like stepping into another realm, where I become lost in words and storytelling. My monitor? It's a gateway to an entire universe filled with my thoughts. At seventy years old, I've had my fair share of ups and downs along the way. But here I am, living large and living my best life.

QHP: A very young 70-year-old I might add!! How do you deal with writer’s block?

Shelley: You might find this surprising, but I've never experienced writer's block. I'm very disciplined, and when I sit at my computer during my writing time, I dive straight into work mode. My ideas come faster than I can get them down on the page. There was even a therapy session where my therapist had me try stream of consciousness. I lay on the couch and effortlessly talked for an hour with an uninterrupted flow of thoughts. My therapist said, "Your mind never stops." That's exactly how it feels when I write—a continuous stream of ideas that keeps coming.

QHP: Incredible. I can write words for a greeting card and my husband is always amazed I know what to write... Do you have any self-care practices you do to stay focused and sane?

Shelley: Easy to answer this question…cocktail hour.

QHP: Good one! Who is your favorite writer, and what do you find interesting about their work?

Shelley: I don't have a favorite writer because I adore many authors and their works. However, I have a special adoration for independent authors. Unlike established writers or celebrities, they can't just release a book and expect it to sell rapidly. My favorite authors are the diligent, independent ones who must work tirelessly for each sale, and I find the reasons behind why they wrote their books incredibly fascinating.

QHP: Love that! I love indie authors, too, and appreciate the hustle! Do you have a favorite book or movie?

Shelley: The film that had the most impact on me was The Dead Poet’s Society. When Robin Williams had his students stand on their desks to encourage them to view the world from different perspectives spoke to my very soul. Released in 1989, this movie has stayed with me for thirty-six years, and I often reflect on that particular scene.

QHP: Yes that is worth watching over and over. Are there any habits you have that have shaped your writing style?

Shelley: One habit, one word…consistency.

QHP: So true! How do you think your creative process has changed over time?

Shelley: When I retired, I figured I'd have plenty of time to read books on becoming a better writer and polish my writing skills. I also thought there would be time for daydreaming and turning those dreams into best-selling books. But surprise, surprise—retirement has somehow turned into a full-time job! I'm still scratching my head over this mystery unless, of course, those marathon coffee breaks and the mandatory daily cocktail hour are eating up my schedule.

QHP: Oh my gosh, yes, it is a full time job because you find ways to keep you energized and fulfilled! Since so many of us spent a lot of time isolated during the pandemic, how has that experience specifically changed your creative or preparation process or your outlook on life?

Shelley: During the pandemic, I found myself working longer hours due to my role in the medical field. Instead of starting my day at 9 a.m., I was at the workplace by 6:30 a.m. to check the temperatures of all employees entering until we got an automated machine. Despite the circumstances, I managed to maintain a social life with my coworkers. The pandemic shifted my perspective on life as I witnessed the elderly I cared for being isolated from their families. I volunteered for COVID-19 trials, taking the vaccine shots before they were officially approved. This experience of putting myself at risk for the greater good taught me that I am courageous. More importantly, it has taught me the value of resilience, empathy, and the importance of community in times of crisis.

QHP: I'm speechless. Thank you, Shelley. What genres do you most enjoy?

Shelley: I primarily prefer reading non-fiction because I enjoy continuously gaining new knowledge.

QHP: I prefer memoirs myself and learning how others live their life, what lessons they learned, what success they achieved. When you are creating a story, what is your process for putting a storyline together?

Shelley: When creating a story, I begin by contemplating it in my mind. Whenever a brilliant idea strikes, I quickly jot it down and pin it to my bulletin board. Once I start writing, the narrative seems to take on a life of its own.

QHP Those little nuggets are gold! What inspires you?

Shelley: Waking up in the morning.

QHP: That is a gift, for sure. If you could name one point in time when everything changed for you, what was it?

Shelley: I’m going to name fifteen points in time:

Being born.
Finding out Santa wasn’t real.
Going to church.
Losing my virginity.
Getting married and having children.
Watching my mother die a painful death from breast cancer.
When my father remarried a gold digger.
When my sweet father died.
A situational depression that put me in a mental hospital for a week. The therapist said what happened was brutal, even though it was partly my fault.
Divorce after 45 years of marriage.
Worrying about my grown children.
Cancer.
Getting remarried.
Holding PEEK-A-BOOB in my hands.
Being given the Honorable Eileen Echols Inspired Award.

QHP: I bet you could write a book for each of those defining moments. Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your work?

Shelley: I thoroughly appreciated these questions and the opportunity to delve into my inner self to respond to them.

QHP: You are welcome. Do you have any websites or social media pages you’d like to share?

Website: https://shelleymalicotestutchman.localservicebiz.com/home

Facebook: shelley.malicotestutchman

TikTok@shelley4007

Instagram: @malicotestutchman

About PEEK-A-BOOB: Uncovering Breast Cancer

In a world shattered by the words "you have breast cancer," Shelley found herself navigating a labyrinth of fear and uncertainty. "Peek-A-Boob" is her courageous tale of transformation from diagnosis to triumph, where she tackles tough obstacles, such as ghosting by friends, standing up for what she felt was best for her treatment, and moving forward from breast cancer back to an optimistic future. With heartwarming quotes and uplifting encouragement, the author helps readers find solace when grappling with doubts and despair. Venture into the unique chapter "Man to Man," penned by Shelley's husband, offering a rare male perspective on battling breast cancer alongside a loved one. For those seeking an ally on their journey toward healing, this book stands as a masterful original—seamlessly blending personal testimony with practical guidance. "Peek-A-Boob" is not just a book; it's a promise of unwavering companionship in the battle against breast cancer.