How to get your books out of the "EROTICA" category on Amazon

So, you've written a book. You polished it to perfection and published it through Amazon. After spending time carefully deciding what categories your book should be listed among you see that Amazon (without your knowledge) has tossed your awesome book into the black hole of EROTICA.

Why? Well, the more I research the subject, I've figured out quite a few reasons. Some of them are downright stupid, as you could imagine.

First, let me clear something up. There is a big difference in EROTICA and EROTIC ROMANCE. They are NOT the same thing. In an erotic story the plot itself revolves around the sex. If you remove the sex, there is no story. In an erotic romance, the story revolves around the romance as well as sub-plots, there just happens to be sex in it. If you remove the sex, you still have a story. Yes, that is oversimplified, but that is the way I define the difference. No matter how you look at it, EROTICA and EROTIC ROMANCE are not the same thing. Oh, and NEITHER OF THEM ARE PORN. That is quite another category. PORN is sex just for the sake of sex. There is no plot, just sex.

But, I digress. I was looking all this up because two of my books got thrown into the black hole of EROTICA and I could not, no matter how hard I tried get them into the proper categories. I tried everything.

First, I went into the book's details page on KDP and manually selected the categories over again and republished. That didn't work.

Next, I called and called until I finally got someone on the phone. He was unable to help me, but at least he was polite.

When I finally got an email in response to the actual issue, and not simply a form letter blowing me off, the person explained that my covers were considered "mature content," and that I needed to change them. Okay, so I changed the covers. They weren't by any means obscene to begin with, but whatever. I wrote them back, stating that I had made the changes requested and politely asked that my books now be placed into their proper categories, seeing as how NEITHER of them is erotica.

I was very rudely informed that my books had been labeled as having "mature content." That Amazon reserves the right to decide what is "mature content," and my books would never be allowed into their general search feature.

What assholes, right?

Well, after careful consideration, I found a way around this. Now, I'm not trying to publish filth and slip it under the radar. Certainly, some of my books are erotic romance, but none of them are straight erotica. If Amazon is going to use that category, they should at least teach their employees the proper definition.

And for the record, I am very offended if someone says I write "smut." I want to punch them in the face. But, I'm getting off subject. LOL

Oh, before I go on, there are apparently "trigger" words that, if found in your book description, can get them automatically thrown into the EROTICA category.

I'm sure some people are wondering why it's so bad to be in the EROTICA category. Because EROTICA is where books go to die. Amazon lumps everything in there that "offends" them and books get buried. It's a good way to have your book (that you undoubtedly worked very hard to complete) never see the light of day.

Back to trigger words. It is perfectly all right to include a warning with your book. I do this. However, never use phrases like "mature content," "18 and over," "adult," etc. These throw up a red flag. (It is okay to say that your book contains graphic violence, and sex. I like to include that no werewolves were harmed in the making of my books. LOL) Also, when publishing through Create Space, NEVER click the button that says your book contains adult/mature content. Even if it does, that is what a description is for. That button is what getting thrown into the black hole is for. ;)

As I searched the net for information, something else that bothered and surprised me were the number of people that thought this "feature" of Amazon's is somehow protecting children. That's ridiculous! If your kid is shopping all by themselves on Amazon, and using your credit/debit card, something is wrong, and it isn't with Amazon. Besides that, it isn't the job of a retailer OR the authors to worry about what someone else's kid sees. That's called parenting. Placing an honest description on your book is all you have a responsibility to do. Period.

So, here's what I did. So far, it has worked.

The only choice I felt like I had, on my books, was to unpublish them both. I didn't just click republish though, like I know others have tried. I uploaded them both as completely new titles, with new covers, and slightly changed their descriptions.

Unfortunately, this means that one title will loose the slight momentum of about 90 sales thus far. BUT, it will be visible in the proper categories, which should lead to even more sales.

Once again, I'm not trying to be dishonest. I'm simply trying to help readers find my books, in the logical categories where they belong. I always tell readers as straight-forward and honestly as possible what they are getting in the book's description. 

I hope this helps someone else who is dealing with the erotica black hole.

Holiday survival tips

I only have a few tips to share. First of all, AVOID everyone that you feel is a complete and utter asshat. If that is impossible, try some of the drink recipes below. LOL

The following drinks are from the menu at Original Sin, Dracula's nightclub in the Lilith Mercury series. All ingredients should be mixed to taste. Oh, and did I mention that I invented most of them? Yep. I tried them out on a friend of mine as well. I wanted to be sure that the names were catchy, and the flavors weren't nasty. ;)

Angel’s Halo: Raspberry Vodka & White Godiva Liqueur

The Devil’s Kiss: Vodka, White Godiva Liqueur & Cinnamon Schnapps

Bottled Sin: Raspberry Infused Vodka & Cranberry Juice

Original Sin: White rum, Apricot brandy, Lemon juice, Superfine sugar, Grenadine

If you're looking for something to go with all these great drinks, here's my favorite chili recipe.

Heaven & Hell Chili


2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 

2 pounds hamburger, 

1 large onion (optional) I replace this with 1 tbs crushed garlic,

chopped jalapenos, you can use fresh ones or out of the can. I use the veg oil to lightly 

brown my peppers.  

1 package chili seasoning mix, or you can experiment with your own seasonings, 

3 drops (or more) of hot sauce, 

1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes with juice, 

1 8 oz can tomato sauce, 

1 28 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained, 

1 28 oz can light red kidney beans, drained, 

1 1/2 tablespoons powdered chocolate (you can use the baking kind or Nesquick.  )

1 4.5 oz can chopped chilies, drained. Trust me, this chili is awesome. 



Happy Holidays! May you avoid the asshats and have a great time! 

Overjoyed

I always knew what that word meant, in a technical sense. However, until recently, I never truly "felt" overjoyed before. I've experienced happiness, but this goes so far beyond that.

Lately, I have been so excited as 4 of my books climb the charts over at Amazon. I'm not posting this to brag, but to share how I'm feeling right now. It seems that a lot of other writers get angry when they see someone posting about book ratings or good reviews. I think they are missing the point. Being happy for someone else when they succeed is the very best way to assure your own success.

Most people do not share their "wins" to be jerks. They are just thrilled that something good has happened to them. As I watch those numbers climb higher and higher, I don't want to rub it in anyone's face. Here's an example of what's going through my head.

"I can pay my bills now!"

"So, THIS is what it feels like to make real money doing what you love!."

"Oh, my GOD. People are actually reading my work and "getting" me."

"This is amazing!"

"I feel like a real author now."

There are not words to express how happy I am. That is what being overjoyed feels like. Not only are my book's rankings improving, so is my author ranking. Right now I'm in the top 100 in Horror and Paranormal Romance. That is freaking amazing! As far as I know those are two of the hardest categories to break into, simply because there is so much horror and paranormal romance out there. LOL

I'm positively giddy right now. I am watching my dreams come to life one day at a time. I wish I had the words to let you know how that feels.

It's been a while since I've blogged

I didn't realize until I looked at my calendar today, but it has been nearly a month since my last post. Since I really should be working on proof reading right now, here's a brief rundown of what's going on with me. Just so everyone knows I'm still alive.

These are in no particular order.

I've started doing yoga again to improve my flexibility.

I have 4 books on the top 100 lists (Dark Fantasy, Mythology & Folklore, Fairy Tales, Werewolves & Shifters, & Vampires) on Amazon and I am thrilled about it.

I've been working on proof reading Frankenstein: Unleashed (Jan. 2014) and am close to being finished.

I made myself take a week off for Thanksgiving and I feel pretty good about that.

I've discovered that my sister-in-law is an irredeemable twat. I feel less great about that. But, at least it makes my holiday plans much simpler. LOL

I've got some new ideas for Bound by Blood, once I finally get to work on it again.

My dog Roscoe continues to be a little jelly roll. LOL

I'm psyched for the new Hobbit movie.

I've ordered my husband and I matching wedding bands that look like the one ring. ;)

Okay, that's a glimpse into my exciting (Ha. Ha.) life. I've really got to get back to work. I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm still here.

How about some cognac shrimp?

As many of you may already know, I love to cook. Especially, when the weather changes. Something about cooler temperatures (which I wait for all year) really taps into my inner "Martha Stewart" or whatever you want to call it. LOL

So far, I am LOVING this wonderful fall weather, and I'm breaking out a few recipes that I haven't cooked in a while. Well, that and as I'm editing Frankenstein: Unleashed, I keep fighting the overwhelming urge to start watching Buffy The Vampire Slayer all over again. But, I'm rambling. Back to the recipes.

Here's a good one.

Cognac Shrimp.

This easy shrimp main dish is quick to prepare. Also, if you're lactose intolerant (like me), you can substitute the heavy cream for full fat lactose free milk. I like to serve this over pasta, but it goes well with most any grilled or sauteed veggie dish. 


Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

·         1 shallot, chopped

·         ½ cup dry white wine

·         2 tablespoons lemon juice

·         1 tablespoon heavy cream

·         12 tablespoons cold butter

·         1/16 teaspoon white pepper

·         5 tablespoons butter

·         ¾ lb medium shrimp, rinsed and deveined

·         1/2 teaspoon salt

·         2 tablespoons Cognac

Preparation:

To make:

Simmer the shallots, white wine, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over low-medium heat for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is reduced to about 2 tablespoons. Add the cream and bring to just under a simmer. When the first few bubbles rise, turn the heat down very slightly and add the 12 tablespoons of butter, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. Be sure to allow one pat of butter to melt completely before adding the next. Once the butter is fully incorporated, season the sauce with white pepper and set aside.

In a skillet over high heat, melt 5 tablespoons of butter, and then sauté shrimp, turning a few times until cooked through – about 3-4 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and season the shrimp with salt. Carefully add the Cognac (it may flame) and stir thoroughly. Spoon the warm sauce over the hot shrimp and serve.

Makes 2 servings.

New titles for 99 cents

I've been busy, again. LOL As it gets closer to the holiday season, I don't know about you, but money is always on my mind. Not just money in general, but how to save more of it and get more of what I want. I think that's what a lot of people have on their minds right now. So, what are you to do when you have a "reading habit" that needs to be indulged? Well, that's where my brainstorming comes in. I've put together 2 more collections and am offering them for only 99 cents on Amazon. :)

I wanted to give readers something to enjoy on those cold nights ahead, and I wanted to offer it at a great price. I am pleased to present the Bite Me Collection. Here are all the details.

Two hot vampire romance novels by Tracey H. Kitts, combined for the very first time into VOLUME ONE of the Bite Me, Vampire Romance Collection.

The Bite Me Vampire Romance Collection, Volume One includes:

1. Till the Break of Dawn
2. Frank and The Werewolf Tamer

Till the Break of Dawn

Thanks to a bet with her best friend, Dawn is about to get involved with the undead love of her life for the second time. So what if he's immortal. It could work, right?

Warning: This book contains graphic sex, graphic language, and one smoking hot vampire.
Frank and The Werewolf Tamer

Katherine has had a hard time finding work, mostly because she's a vampire. Turns out, people aren't clamoring to work with the undead. She goes to the massive theme park, Notte Oscura, as a last resort. What Katherine doesn't realize is, there's a lot more waiting for her than just a job.

Warning: This book contains graphic sex, graphic language, and violence.

Purchase your copy here.

Two hot vampire romance novels by Tracey H. Kitts, combined for the very first time into VOLUME TWO of the Bite Me, Vampire Romance Collection.

The Bite Me Vampire Romance Collection, VOLUME TWO includes:

1. Eden
2. Wicked City

Eden

Catrina's world is turned upside down the moment she agrees to Viktor's plan. Who even knew that Abraham Van Helsing had a younger brother? Not only that, but a brother who was turned by the King of Vampires and who held such obvious power. Now she must deal with the consequences of her actions and an attraction she can no longer deny.

Viktor wants her to spy on the alpha werewolf, Alexander. He suspects Alex is responsible for the murder of a fellow vampire. However, there is one major problem with this plan. The werewolf is just as hard to resist as Viktor and Catrina is caught right in the middle.

Warning: This book contains, graphic language, graphic sex, violence, and two smoking hot heroes. 

Wicked City

Lavinia accepted what she is a long time ago. She isn't squeamish when it comes to blood or her sexuality. After all, both blood and sex are necessary to sustain a succubus. She is a well-trained assassin. Working for her fellow vampire and occasional lover comes naturally for her. When she is sent out to kill someone, they die. It's that simple. But what if her target means more to her than he should?
Synn thought he knew what he was getting into when he encountered the succubus that first night, but he may still be in over his head. She was sent to kill him, and still he wants her. One man has never been enough for Lavinia, however, the wizard Synn thinks he's man enough for the job.

Warning: This book contains graphic violence, graphic language, and graphic sex, including multiple partners.

Purchase your copy here.

I'm still here, just busy. :)

 

When I realized how long it had been since I blogged I thought, "Wow. I should probably let people know I'm still alive. LOL

First of all, I love this time of year. From October-February, the weather here is fantastic. So, I've been taking longer walks with my dog, Roscoe and spending more time in the fresh, cool air.

Aside from that, I've been working really hard to finish some upcoming books. Some are new and others are re-releases.

I just finished writing Frankenstein: Unleashed. This is another erotic horror title with me writing as T.K. Hardin. It is scheduled to be released in January 2014.

Right now, I'm working on getting Three Days of Night ready for its re-release in December 2013. As it stands right now, I should be finished with the final edits this week.

Plus, Three Days of Night is the final book to be returned to me from my former publisher. This means that aside from my works published with Ellora's Cave, I'm all indie. I have to say, that is a great feeling.

Speaking of Ellora's Cave, I've got another book coming out with them, no release date yet. It's called Howl for me. This story was previously published as Once in a Blue Moon, but has gotten a re-vamp. No pun intended. LOL This one is about a werewolf.

In addition to all that, I've got cover art ready to go for the next 2 Lilith Mercury books, both are currently on my schedule for sometime next year. No definite release dates yet.

Oh, and during all this time, the Eternally Yours Vampire Menage Collection has remained on the Dark Fantasy Best Sellers list on Amazon. (in the top 10) I can't wipe smile from my face. :)