Friday, August 20, 2010

Monday, August 16, 2010

"Real" writing

I'll never understand why so many people think that writing romance isn't "real" writing. Is it just that they are uncomfortable writing about feelings maybe? I mean, if you're going to love you have to feel something and what good is a book that doesn't describe what the main character feels?

Any writing (if it's good), regardless of genre requires effort. I respect anyone who puts the time and energy into writing that it deserves. It never ceases to irritate me when someone turns up their nose at my hard work just because it's romance. Or when the "nose turning" is immediately followed by a statement like, "Anyone can write romance."

No, they really can't. But apparently anyone can critique it.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

How to get encouraged

It's very difficult at times to remember that I write because I love it, not because it pays all my bills. Of course it would be wonderful if I could make a living doing what I love. And one day I plan to be able to do just that. In the meantime, it's hard. Sometimes I stare at a page and wonder why I bother. (Espeically when my books keep getting pirated and my royalty checks keep shrinking.) Then I get a note from a reader who likes my books and remember that someone out there is listening. So, I go back to my keyboard with my heart full of encouragement and start again.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Lilith Mercury is not paying my bills

For those of you who know the series, I'm sure you'll understand what this post is about by the title. I just wanted to say how much I appreciate the letters asking when the next book will be and letting me know how much you enjoy it. I love Lilith too. My heart has always been in this story, but unfortunately, it isn't paying the bills.

I don't plan to stop writing the series, but there will be a significant delay in the next book. I won't lie to you. I have to make some money. It's not about greed, it's about survival. If I plan to continue writing (and I'd like to) then I have to write what sells. As of now, that is not Lilith Mercury.

I feel like fans of the series deserve to know what's going on. Please understand that I'm not abandoning you. I just don't want to be homeless.