Shashauna P. Thomas's Blog
August 14, 2014
What Road Led Me To Be An Erotic Author
As far as back as I can remember I have always enjoyed writing. First it was through poetry. When I was younger I use to write poems. The same short four, six, or eight line rhyming poems children write for their parents on mother's day or father's day or Christmas. My family never did have much money so a nice homemade card with a cute original poem inside was often my gift of choice for family members. Especially on birthdays. I would take the time to sit and think about the person and what they mean to me. Then I put all those thoughts and feelings down into a poem about them and give it to them as a gift. As the years passed I never lost my love for poetry. I continued writing poems, but mostly for my own enjoyment. Sometimes I found it easier to express my thoughts and emotions in poem format instead of just remembering to write down everything in my diary.
The next thing I found myself drawn to is writing articles. I was the nerd in the class who preferred big writing assignments over tests. A teacher of mine noticed how well written my papers were and asked if I would like to participate in the school newspaper. It was a small newspaper that was focused on issues that affected the minority community on our college campus. I loved working on the paper because it gave me an outlet for my writing, both poetry and articles, and I was able to read and interact with other creative people. It was a very rewarding and inspiring job.
After graduation a sorority sister of mine knew how much I enjoyed being creative with the written word. She and I are both huge fans of Zane and all her books. At the time I wasn't signed up to her email list, but my sister was. And she read about some open call submissions that Zane was having for a few of her upcoming anthologies. Once she forwarded the email to me and I read the descriptions for what she was looking for; immediately I became inspired. So I decided to go for it and submit my work for consideration. I ended up writing four short stories for four different anthologies. In the end one was chosen. Zane chose The Mile High Club for her lesbian anthology Missionary No More: Purple Panties II.
The moment I received the letter telling me that one of my stories was chosen for publication was such a pivotal moment in my life for so many reasons. First off having one of your idols tell you that they like your work enough that they are going to publish it is an unimaginable feeling. Then the thought that something you created is being published and is now out there for the whole world to enjoy. There just isn't any words to adequately describe how that feels.
I'd never written erotica before this. I read plenty of it along with horror and suspense so I knew the gist of what good erotic romance and erotica consisted of. My vivid imagination is where my erotic tales are created and I use my love of writing to pen these tales down on paper for the world to enjoy. After those first four short stories I knew I was hooked on writing erotica. And despite the different hurdles and challenges I have faced over the years I have continued to work on my writing. And I have been blessed with a number of works published.
Unfortunately my mother passed away before I started my writing career. I wish she could've been around to experience all the success I have had with me. As a writer herself I know she would've been proud and happy for me. She enjoyed writing horror, suspense, cliff-hangers. They were awesome short stories but she never had them published. She feared they weren't good enough so she never submitted them to any publisher. Though she never submitted her work she continued to write them for her own enjoyment. I think if she was around today she would be so proud that I'm following my dreams. And even though she isn't here physically she is a major influence in my life, in everything that I do, and especially in my path to become a successful erotic author.
The next thing I found myself drawn to is writing articles. I was the nerd in the class who preferred big writing assignments over tests. A teacher of mine noticed how well written my papers were and asked if I would like to participate in the school newspaper. It was a small newspaper that was focused on issues that affected the minority community on our college campus. I loved working on the paper because it gave me an outlet for my writing, both poetry and articles, and I was able to read and interact with other creative people. It was a very rewarding and inspiring job.
After graduation a sorority sister of mine knew how much I enjoyed being creative with the written word. She and I are both huge fans of Zane and all her books. At the time I wasn't signed up to her email list, but my sister was. And she read about some open call submissions that Zane was having for a few of her upcoming anthologies. Once she forwarded the email to me and I read the descriptions for what she was looking for; immediately I became inspired. So I decided to go for it and submit my work for consideration. I ended up writing four short stories for four different anthologies. In the end one was chosen. Zane chose The Mile High Club for her lesbian anthology Missionary No More: Purple Panties II.
The moment I received the letter telling me that one of my stories was chosen for publication was such a pivotal moment in my life for so many reasons. First off having one of your idols tell you that they like your work enough that they are going to publish it is an unimaginable feeling. Then the thought that something you created is being published and is now out there for the whole world to enjoy. There just isn't any words to adequately describe how that feels.
I'd never written erotica before this. I read plenty of it along with horror and suspense so I knew the gist of what good erotic romance and erotica consisted of. My vivid imagination is where my erotic tales are created and I use my love of writing to pen these tales down on paper for the world to enjoy. After those first four short stories I knew I was hooked on writing erotica. And despite the different hurdles and challenges I have faced over the years I have continued to work on my writing. And I have been blessed with a number of works published.
Unfortunately my mother passed away before I started my writing career. I wish she could've been around to experience all the success I have had with me. As a writer herself I know she would've been proud and happy for me. She enjoyed writing horror, suspense, cliff-hangers. They were awesome short stories but she never had them published. She feared they weren't good enough so she never submitted them to any publisher. Though she never submitted her work she continued to write them for her own enjoyment. I think if she was around today she would be so proud that I'm following my dreams. And even though she isn't here physically she is a major influence in my life, in everything that I do, and especially in my path to become a successful erotic author.
November 30, 2011
Multitasking Verses Stretching One's Self Too Thin
When I first started writing I always finished one story project before moving onto the next one. Even if the next story idea came to me before or during the process of writing a different story I still waited 'til I at least finished the first rough draft of the previous project before moving on to a different one. I did this because I wanted to make sure my writing of one story didn't influence the other. Each author has their own writing style which means they have their own writing voice. If a reader reads enough of their work they begin to recognize the authors voice easily. Which can be a good thing and a bad thing. Good when the readers love the way you write so much they buy your books as soon as they see you're the author, and bad when the reader begins to feel as if your stories are all the same.
I've read books like that. Sure the characters names, and other things like that may vary from book to book, but the general theme is exactly the same. And if you've read enough from this author then you also know how this new book will most likely end. They start to get predictable. I didn't want my books to ever be that. I see clear differences when I see the stories in my head, and I want my readers to see the clear difference as well. True all of my stories usually have a happy ending so far, but I avoid predictability as much as possible. And finishing one project before moving onto another was much easier to accomplish when I first started writing and was working on only short stories. Now that certainly isn't the case.
My ultimate goal has always been to write novel length erotica stories of my own as well as my short stories. And as expected writing a novel takes a lot more time to create than a 4,000 or 5,000 word short story. Which wouldn't be a problem if I had all the time in the world to finish one novel then a short story than another novel. However, most of my short stories I create are inspired by open call submissions and as most of you other authors know those always have a deadline. Which means I have to stop whatever I was doing in one project to start and finish a whole new project in order to get my stories in on time. Then get back into my original mindset so I can resume the previous project I've been working on. As each story is different, my mindset as I create them will be different. One I am a narrator and another I am in the mindset of the main character and another I am in the mindset of multiple main characters. Just as situations are different so are personalities. One character is outgoing and domineering so the way they act and talk could be totally different from the quiet reserved main character in the other story I'm working on.
I quickly learned that though my preference maybe to work on one project at a time that isn't how I'm going to succeed. I need to not only be able to juggle writing, editing, and promotion, but I also need to juggle multiple stories in the works. Making especially sure to meet deadlines and conform with the many different submission guidelines. I know in order to be successful I need to know how to multitask and have great time management skills. The only thing is how does one know when they're just multitasking and when they're spreading themselves too thin? I mean sure I can pump out a 4,000 word count story in two days or less, but am I giving that story all the attention it deserves while my mind tries to jump back to the previous work in progress. I wonder am I concentrating enough to make each scene the best that they can be as I find myself trying to brain storm on more ways to promote my previous book or trying to decided what topic my next blog article should be on.
If someone is spreading themselves too thin then what do they cut out when everything is important? Is it best to put off the blog appearances for a while so you can concentrate fully on your story? Is it better to let an open call submission pass you by because you haven't finished that novel you've been working on? When everything is important how do you know when you just need to step up your game and improve your time management skills or you're being over ambitious and am trying to manage too many pots in the kitchen? As any good cook will tell you having your hands on too many pots at the same time isn't good. Something is bound to get undercooked, overcooked, or burned. How I see that analogy applying to writing is when working on too many stories at once, one or more are bound to suffer. No one wants to create a rush story that ends up getting bad reviews, ruining the reputation they worked so hard to build, and causing them to loose readers. But then if you take too much time trying to make sure each story is perfect, even before you submit it for publishing, you'll end up missing deadlines, you'll never get anything published, you'll miss out on other golden opportunities, and they'll be nothing out there for your readers to read. As a new author myself I am still trying to figure out the difference between multitasking and spreading myself too thin, but one thing I do know is that the difference between the two is very slim.
I've read books like that. Sure the characters names, and other things like that may vary from book to book, but the general theme is exactly the same. And if you've read enough from this author then you also know how this new book will most likely end. They start to get predictable. I didn't want my books to ever be that. I see clear differences when I see the stories in my head, and I want my readers to see the clear difference as well. True all of my stories usually have a happy ending so far, but I avoid predictability as much as possible. And finishing one project before moving onto another was much easier to accomplish when I first started writing and was working on only short stories. Now that certainly isn't the case.
My ultimate goal has always been to write novel length erotica stories of my own as well as my short stories. And as expected writing a novel takes a lot more time to create than a 4,000 or 5,000 word short story. Which wouldn't be a problem if I had all the time in the world to finish one novel then a short story than another novel. However, most of my short stories I create are inspired by open call submissions and as most of you other authors know those always have a deadline. Which means I have to stop whatever I was doing in one project to start and finish a whole new project in order to get my stories in on time. Then get back into my original mindset so I can resume the previous project I've been working on. As each story is different, my mindset as I create them will be different. One I am a narrator and another I am in the mindset of the main character and another I am in the mindset of multiple main characters. Just as situations are different so are personalities. One character is outgoing and domineering so the way they act and talk could be totally different from the quiet reserved main character in the other story I'm working on.
I quickly learned that though my preference maybe to work on one project at a time that isn't how I'm going to succeed. I need to not only be able to juggle writing, editing, and promotion, but I also need to juggle multiple stories in the works. Making especially sure to meet deadlines and conform with the many different submission guidelines. I know in order to be successful I need to know how to multitask and have great time management skills. The only thing is how does one know when they're just multitasking and when they're spreading themselves too thin? I mean sure I can pump out a 4,000 word count story in two days or less, but am I giving that story all the attention it deserves while my mind tries to jump back to the previous work in progress. I wonder am I concentrating enough to make each scene the best that they can be as I find myself trying to brain storm on more ways to promote my previous book or trying to decided what topic my next blog article should be on.
If someone is spreading themselves too thin then what do they cut out when everything is important? Is it best to put off the blog appearances for a while so you can concentrate fully on your story? Is it better to let an open call submission pass you by because you haven't finished that novel you've been working on? When everything is important how do you know when you just need to step up your game and improve your time management skills or you're being over ambitious and am trying to manage too many pots in the kitchen? As any good cook will tell you having your hands on too many pots at the same time isn't good. Something is bound to get undercooked, overcooked, or burned. How I see that analogy applying to writing is when working on too many stories at once, one or more are bound to suffer. No one wants to create a rush story that ends up getting bad reviews, ruining the reputation they worked so hard to build, and causing them to loose readers. But then if you take too much time trying to make sure each story is perfect, even before you submit it for publishing, you'll end up missing deadlines, you'll never get anything published, you'll miss out on other golden opportunities, and they'll be nothing out there for your readers to read. As a new author myself I am still trying to figure out the difference between multitasking and spreading myself too thin, but one thing I do know is that the difference between the two is very slim.
October 21, 2011
Learning Something New Everyday
I knew when I started my writing career seriously that I had a lot to learn. Both about the whole publishing and professional editing process. I was sure the more writing I did the better my writing would become. Meeting some of the authors I've been huge fans of for years, and other erotic authors out there doing the same exact thing I was, trying to make a name for themselves in this industry during a recession, is something I looked forward to. And three years in I still look forward to them.
I still look forward to meeting other authors like me and hold on going conversations about writing, story plots, publishing companies, and publicity strategies. Each time one of my stories get chosen for publishing and I get to work with different editors it helps me to further perfect my craft. Something I know I have to constantly do if I want my writing career to continue to grow further. Always important if I plan to write for the rest of my life, which I do. ;-)
I can still honestly say all the hard work required is still worth it. Of course I am sure other authors out there will say, 'Three years, hah. That is just the tip of the iceberg.' I agree and I look forward to all the future hurdles I'll have to face. As long as I am doing what I love and am sharing my erotic tales with the world for everyone else to enjoy then I am willing to do whatever it takes to be successful.
One of the most important things I've learned is there are a ton of talented authors out there who have been at it for a lot longer than I have and they're still trying to get that perfect contract. The beautiful deal with a publisher who wants to not only sign you but lock you in to publish future manuscripts. So many authors have aspired for these type of contracts for most of their lives and never attain one. It's almost as if it is the famous fabled golden fleece and we're all Jason and the Argonauts.
A very wise author once said that if you are in the industry of writing for the fame and money than you were in the wrong industry. And I understood what she meant, but even knowing what to expect still didn't fully spell out how rough the publishing world is for us authors. It almost borders on unbelievable under appreciation for the hours of work, time, and effort put into each manuscript developed. Not only for the authors, but for the editors, publishers, cover artists, and all the other staff members involved. If we didn't love what we did we sure wouldn't continue to slave away day in and day out.
I for one can not wait to see what new lessons tomorrow holds for me to learn.;-)
I still look forward to meeting other authors like me and hold on going conversations about writing, story plots, publishing companies, and publicity strategies. Each time one of my stories get chosen for publishing and I get to work with different editors it helps me to further perfect my craft. Something I know I have to constantly do if I want my writing career to continue to grow further. Always important if I plan to write for the rest of my life, which I do. ;-)
I can still honestly say all the hard work required is still worth it. Of course I am sure other authors out there will say, 'Three years, hah. That is just the tip of the iceberg.' I agree and I look forward to all the future hurdles I'll have to face. As long as I am doing what I love and am sharing my erotic tales with the world for everyone else to enjoy then I am willing to do whatever it takes to be successful.
One of the most important things I've learned is there are a ton of talented authors out there who have been at it for a lot longer than I have and they're still trying to get that perfect contract. The beautiful deal with a publisher who wants to not only sign you but lock you in to publish future manuscripts. So many authors have aspired for these type of contracts for most of their lives and never attain one. It's almost as if it is the famous fabled golden fleece and we're all Jason and the Argonauts.
A very wise author once said that if you are in the industry of writing for the fame and money than you were in the wrong industry. And I understood what she meant, but even knowing what to expect still didn't fully spell out how rough the publishing world is for us authors. It almost borders on unbelievable under appreciation for the hours of work, time, and effort put into each manuscript developed. Not only for the authors, but for the editors, publishers, cover artists, and all the other staff members involved. If we didn't love what we did we sure wouldn't continue to slave away day in and day out.
I for one can not wait to see what new lessons tomorrow holds for me to learn.;-)
October 2, 2011
Stress Kills Creativity
When I decided that becoming an erotica author was what I wanted in life I knew there would be certain hurdles I'd have to over come to make my dream come true. I knew the plight of a starting artist would most likely be my future, and I was prepared for that. What I wasn't prepared for was the unexpected stresses. And what might surprise you as it did me was that the economic hardships of the current economic depression aren't the hardest part.
I guess because I expected to constantly be broke as I knew writing wouldn't make me a millionaire over night that it wasn't an unexpected stresser. I enjoy writing because I enjoy bringing the characters in my head to life on paper for others to enjoy. I'm not in it for the money. It is something I enjoy doing and thus is what I want to make my primary career choice.
The problem comes in when it seems like everything else in the world is working against you. Like there never seems to be enough time in a day to get accomplished enough writing. Or no matter how many guest blog appearances you make or no matter how many interviews you do it never seems like you've done enough promotion. There is always something you didn't get a chance to accomplish.
Or if you are someone like me and there are a ton of personal issues that seem to love coming at you all at once. Making ends meet, finding a permanent place to live, meeting deadlines, while still giving your own manuscript ideas the attention they deserve. Can sometimes seem overwhelming. So I can only imagine what it must be like for those who have all this to deal with while trying to maintain a normal 9-5 job in addition to giving your writing the time it needs to be successful. It's unfathomable.
So for someone like me in order for me to give my writing the attention it needs I do not have a regular 9-5 job which of course increases the financial constraints. Needing to finance a roof over my head, and food on the table to support me and my family becomes difficult. Not to mention paying for ink, printing paper, and internet access. I was lucky enough to find out about websites you can create free websites on. But there of course are certain types that cost. Promotion opportunities that would enable me to reach more readers but they cost and thus I can not afford to do them.
Outside stressers can kill your creativity. The more stressed I became the more mentally and emotionally drained I felt. Which left nothing left to continue to create the erotic romances that I wish to pen. Even though all my stories are reflections of characters I see in my head almost as clearly as I see regular people I have learned that there is still a creative aspect to my writing. I still need to be creative when describing the settings, actions, and emotions each character faces during the course of my story. At least now knowing how stress effects my creative ability allows me to keep in it in mind in the future when I need to work on future manuscripts.
I guess because I expected to constantly be broke as I knew writing wouldn't make me a millionaire over night that it wasn't an unexpected stresser. I enjoy writing because I enjoy bringing the characters in my head to life on paper for others to enjoy. I'm not in it for the money. It is something I enjoy doing and thus is what I want to make my primary career choice.
The problem comes in when it seems like everything else in the world is working against you. Like there never seems to be enough time in a day to get accomplished enough writing. Or no matter how many guest blog appearances you make or no matter how many interviews you do it never seems like you've done enough promotion. There is always something you didn't get a chance to accomplish.
Or if you are someone like me and there are a ton of personal issues that seem to love coming at you all at once. Making ends meet, finding a permanent place to live, meeting deadlines, while still giving your own manuscript ideas the attention they deserve. Can sometimes seem overwhelming. So I can only imagine what it must be like for those who have all this to deal with while trying to maintain a normal 9-5 job in addition to giving your writing the time it needs to be successful. It's unfathomable.
So for someone like me in order for me to give my writing the attention it needs I do not have a regular 9-5 job which of course increases the financial constraints. Needing to finance a roof over my head, and food on the table to support me and my family becomes difficult. Not to mention paying for ink, printing paper, and internet access. I was lucky enough to find out about websites you can create free websites on. But there of course are certain types that cost. Promotion opportunities that would enable me to reach more readers but they cost and thus I can not afford to do them.
Outside stressers can kill your creativity. The more stressed I became the more mentally and emotionally drained I felt. Which left nothing left to continue to create the erotic romances that I wish to pen. Even though all my stories are reflections of characters I see in my head almost as clearly as I see regular people I have learned that there is still a creative aspect to my writing. I still need to be creative when describing the settings, actions, and emotions each character faces during the course of my story. At least now knowing how stress effects my creative ability allows me to keep in it in mind in the future when I need to work on future manuscripts.
July 24, 2011
Writing, Like Everything Else In Life, Is All A Balancing Act
This month has been a very busy one for me. Everyday I am glued to the computer trying to get six million things on my to do list done. Of course by four in the morning I look at this same list and see I only have about four items checked off. I know that I will once again find myself behind the computer the very next day where I'm destined to repeat the cycle over and over again. If I didn't love what I'm doing so much there is no way I'd be able to dedicate the hours that are needed to be successful. However, the major milestones that I have reached this month all tells me that I must be doing something right.
Earlier this month my first book was released; Deck The Halls. I also have another short story featured in an erotic anthology that I just found out was released this week. The anthology is called Bondage By The Bay - Tales of BDSM in San Francisco. Edited by M. Christian and published by Renaissance. Like all the other works I had published, I am once again ecstatic that another one of my stories is out there in the world for everyone to read.
Of course with tons to do there really isn't time to sit back and simply bask in my previous accomplishments. I have been extremely busy trying to focus on publicizing my first book. Of course as a new author I had no idea what to do, or how to do it. So after asking the advice of fellow authors I simply jumped head first and decided to learn what I needed to first hand. First I was allowed to promote my new book by posting the first chapter on D. Renee Bagby Presents First Chapters (http://dreneebagbypresentsfirstchapte...). An opportunity I am still very grateful for. It was my first time posting on another author's blog but as fate would have it it wouldn't be my last.
I have been blessed with the opportunity to be a guest blogger on well-known author, Lisabet Sarai's Beyond Romance Blog (http://lisabetsarai.blogspot.com). On August 20th I will be her Guest Blogger. Realizing that I needed to make my own internet presence much more substantial I finally was able to create my own webpage (sptpassions.weebly.com) as well as an e-mail address (shashaunapthomas@yahoo.com) for fans.
Almost as if it were kismet. While making my website I found out that another one of my short stories published in a steamy lesbian werewolf anthology is due to be released next month. Though it is available for pre-order now. The anthology is called Daughters of Artemis. Published by Storm Moon Press and edited by S.L. Armstrong. To say I am beaming with pride every time I look at my new website would be a gross understatement.
I know this is all just the tip of the iceberg. There is still tons more to do when it comes to self promotion, but every time I accomplish one more thing on that long list of mine I feel like I am reaching new milestones that previously seemed so far beyond my reach. Taking stock of where my career is today verses where I was when I started I know I have come a long way. Just as I know that I still have a long way to go.
I once heard a very wise friend say that authors today must wear many hats. They must be their own publicist, accountant, and editor. All on top of being a creative writer. As long as I can continue to balance the many hats an author must wear to be successful I will continue to grow as a writer and a person.
Earlier this month my first book was released; Deck The Halls. I also have another short story featured in an erotic anthology that I just found out was released this week. The anthology is called Bondage By The Bay - Tales of BDSM in San Francisco. Edited by M. Christian and published by Renaissance. Like all the other works I had published, I am once again ecstatic that another one of my stories is out there in the world for everyone to read.
Of course with tons to do there really isn't time to sit back and simply bask in my previous accomplishments. I have been extremely busy trying to focus on publicizing my first book. Of course as a new author I had no idea what to do, or how to do it. So after asking the advice of fellow authors I simply jumped head first and decided to learn what I needed to first hand. First I was allowed to promote my new book by posting the first chapter on D. Renee Bagby Presents First Chapters (http://dreneebagbypresentsfirstchapte...). An opportunity I am still very grateful for. It was my first time posting on another author's blog but as fate would have it it wouldn't be my last.
I have been blessed with the opportunity to be a guest blogger on well-known author, Lisabet Sarai's Beyond Romance Blog (http://lisabetsarai.blogspot.com). On August 20th I will be her Guest Blogger. Realizing that I needed to make my own internet presence much more substantial I finally was able to create my own webpage (sptpassions.weebly.com) as well as an e-mail address (shashaunapthomas@yahoo.com) for fans.
Almost as if it were kismet. While making my website I found out that another one of my short stories published in a steamy lesbian werewolf anthology is due to be released next month. Though it is available for pre-order now. The anthology is called Daughters of Artemis. Published by Storm Moon Press and edited by S.L. Armstrong. To say I am beaming with pride every time I look at my new website would be a gross understatement.
I know this is all just the tip of the iceberg. There is still tons more to do when it comes to self promotion, but every time I accomplish one more thing on that long list of mine I feel like I am reaching new milestones that previously seemed so far beyond my reach. Taking stock of where my career is today verses where I was when I started I know I have come a long way. Just as I know that I still have a long way to go.
I once heard a very wise friend say that authors today must wear many hats. They must be their own publicist, accountant, and editor. All on top of being a creative writer. As long as I can continue to balance the many hats an author must wear to be successful I will continue to grow as a writer and a person.
July 6, 2011
These Are The Moments That Make It All Worth Wild
When I began writing and trying to get my work published there was a lot I had no clue about. I knew nothing about open call submissions, cover letters, self publishing verses submitting manuscripts to publishers, self promotion, freebies, etc. Or how important time management is or being able to handle multiple projects at the same time in hopes of being successful. I definitely have learned a lot more than I did when I first started seriously writing in 2006.
Whenever, I get down. Whether it is from rejection letters, or other life hurdles that love to get in the way. I remind myself of how much I enjoy writing the stories I see in my head down on paper. I remind myself of all the short stories I've had published. I remind myself of how exhilarated I feel once I hold in my hand my published work. And how the thought that my stories are out there being enjoyed by other erotica readers now...and hopefully for years to come. These are the moments that make the entire process well worth it.
And as such I'd like to share with you all one of these wonderful moments. I am beyond ecstatic to announce the July 2011 publication release of my most recent book, Deck The Halls. I love all of my stories that get published, but this is the first story of mine to be published on it's own. I love writing for anthologies, but I love the feeling of seeing my name on the cover. It just motivates me to see more of my manuscripts published in the near future.
http://pinkpetalbooks.com/Deck-The-Ha...
Check it out.;-)
Whenever, I get down. Whether it is from rejection letters, or other life hurdles that love to get in the way. I remind myself of how much I enjoy writing the stories I see in my head down on paper. I remind myself of all the short stories I've had published. I remind myself of how exhilarated I feel once I hold in my hand my published work. And how the thought that my stories are out there being enjoyed by other erotica readers now...and hopefully for years to come. These are the moments that make the entire process well worth it.
And as such I'd like to share with you all one of these wonderful moments. I am beyond ecstatic to announce the July 2011 publication release of my most recent book, Deck The Halls. I love all of my stories that get published, but this is the first story of mine to be published on it's own. I love writing for anthologies, but I love the feeling of seeing my name on the cover. It just motivates me to see more of my manuscripts published in the near future.
http://pinkpetalbooks.com/Deck-The-Ha...
Check it out.;-)
April 27, 2011
An Author's Job is Never Done
Hello Again everyone. I know I haven't posted in a long time but it has been crazy. I knew when I first realized I wanted to become an erotic writer that in order to be successful it would take ALOT of hard work. I am getting my first taste of that now as I work on two more pieces that will be published soon. I don't want to give away too much information as I'm not sure what I am and am not allowed to give away at this stage of the game. But what I will say is that this is my first time working with professional editors on my works.
Now this is not to say anything bad about my friends and family that worked as my editors on all my other previous work. They are wonderful people, who I am happy to say are not afraid to tell me is something isn't good, needs work, or needs to be scrapped all together. But to have a professional editor, one who works for a publishing company for a living, is different. I look at it as one more step closer to my ultimate goal; of becoming a successful published erotic author. They can catch mistakes in grammar, spelling, and flow that others may miss.
I'm sure other authors understand that working with a professional editor takes a lot of time and a lot of back and forth. Some authors get touchy when their work is critiqued. I don't. I am too ecstatic that I even have a professional editor to be upset that they are picking through my piece. When I began to get slightly frustrated I reminded myself that they are only trying to help me make my story the best that it can be.
I also have the experience now having to work with multiple people on multiple works simultaneously. Which is different for me as I like to try to work on one project at a time to ensure the story lines do not over lap. It once again reinforced my earlier belief that time management is key. Having multiple manuscripts in, working on new ones, and still taking care of all the rest of everyday life. I am constantly asking myself why can't there be more hours in a day.
Even though I have learned a lot and have come far in my writing, I also am well aware that I have a long way to go. There is still tons to learn about the legal aspect as well as best ways to promote yourself as an author as well as your works. All while continuing to finish working on my works. Need to have the manuscripts down on paper in a cohesive manner. Getting known as an author and hopefully creating a fan base is only half the job. Need to get the manuscripts done and ready for submission. Can't promise a feast for the senses and only have appetizers ready. Now can we?
Now this is not to say anything bad about my friends and family that worked as my editors on all my other previous work. They are wonderful people, who I am happy to say are not afraid to tell me is something isn't good, needs work, or needs to be scrapped all together. But to have a professional editor, one who works for a publishing company for a living, is different. I look at it as one more step closer to my ultimate goal; of becoming a successful published erotic author. They can catch mistakes in grammar, spelling, and flow that others may miss.
I'm sure other authors understand that working with a professional editor takes a lot of time and a lot of back and forth. Some authors get touchy when their work is critiqued. I don't. I am too ecstatic that I even have a professional editor to be upset that they are picking through my piece. When I began to get slightly frustrated I reminded myself that they are only trying to help me make my story the best that it can be.
I also have the experience now having to work with multiple people on multiple works simultaneously. Which is different for me as I like to try to work on one project at a time to ensure the story lines do not over lap. It once again reinforced my earlier belief that time management is key. Having multiple manuscripts in, working on new ones, and still taking care of all the rest of everyday life. I am constantly asking myself why can't there be more hours in a day.
Even though I have learned a lot and have come far in my writing, I also am well aware that I have a long way to go. There is still tons to learn about the legal aspect as well as best ways to promote yourself as an author as well as your works. All while continuing to finish working on my works. Need to have the manuscripts down on paper in a cohesive manner. Getting known as an author and hopefully creating a fan base is only half the job. Need to get the manuscripts done and ready for submission. Can't promise a feast for the senses and only have appetizers ready. Now can we?
December 30, 2010
So Much Writing So Little Time
As I continue on my journey to becoming a well-known published author I learn things along the way. One of the first things I learned was hard work and diligence. Nothing gets accomplished over night. So in order to succeed you have to work hard at it. Now I can't say what that means for other authors who are trying to make it or already have, but for me it means writing every day; for hours on end. Sure I see the story in images in my mind vividly and clearly. Conveying everything that I see accurately into words to make sure I create the exact same image in the reader's mind is definitely easier said than done.
The next thing I learned is that in order to succeed it takes a lot of time management. Multitasking a number of stories along with your other responsibilities and all the while keeping everything straight and separate is a lot of hard work. It can even feel overwhelming at times when you have a lot on your plate. You'll feel like everything is coming at you all at once and from multiple directions.
I tell you I've loved reading and writing all my life, but I never knew exactly how much hard work and effort goes into making the end product; a published book. No matter if it is printed or an e-book. Now I truly understand why a number of authors say that if you don't love it you won't be doing for long.
And I think that is one of the most important lessons I've learned so far. That I truly love writing and want to see my creations out there in the world with every fiber of my being. Which is why staring at my computer for hours on end, writing every story idea that comes to mind, then tweaking and re-tweaking it until I have it just the way i want. Editing and then re-editing, doing my best to make sure all the spelling and grammar mistakes are taken care of before submission, pulling all-nighters one after the other, making sure to meet submission deadlines. It's all worth it to me the moment I receive that letter or e-mail saying "congratulations. You're story has been selected for publishing." It's those moments that I know whether in print or e-book my story will be out there in the world forever. That's just one of the thoughts that always make me smile and keep me motivated as well as focused on my goal.
The next thing I learned is that in order to succeed it takes a lot of time management. Multitasking a number of stories along with your other responsibilities and all the while keeping everything straight and separate is a lot of hard work. It can even feel overwhelming at times when you have a lot on your plate. You'll feel like everything is coming at you all at once and from multiple directions.
I tell you I've loved reading and writing all my life, but I never knew exactly how much hard work and effort goes into making the end product; a published book. No matter if it is printed or an e-book. Now I truly understand why a number of authors say that if you don't love it you won't be doing for long.
And I think that is one of the most important lessons I've learned so far. That I truly love writing and want to see my creations out there in the world with every fiber of my being. Which is why staring at my computer for hours on end, writing every story idea that comes to mind, then tweaking and re-tweaking it until I have it just the way i want. Editing and then re-editing, doing my best to make sure all the spelling and grammar mistakes are taken care of before submission, pulling all-nighters one after the other, making sure to meet submission deadlines. It's all worth it to me the moment I receive that letter or e-mail saying "congratulations. You're story has been selected for publishing." It's those moments that I know whether in print or e-book my story will be out there in the world forever. That's just one of the thoughts that always make me smile and keep me motivated as well as focused on my goal.
November 9, 2010
One Step Closer to My Dream
Hey everyone. I have some great news that I have been sitting on until the time is right. Recently I received word that one of the stories I submitted was chosen to be published in another anthology. It is an anthology edited by Rachel K. Bussel. The up coming anthology is called Gotta Have It: 69 Stories of Sudden Sex. I just recently signed the contract and couldn't wait to share the news with you all. Please check out the book. It looks like it is going to be one hot and enthralling anthology. The book is already available for pre-order on Amazon. I can not wait for it to come out to read the other stories myself.
This is the fourth short story of mine to be published and yet the happiness I feel is the same as if it were the first. All those long hours working hard to describe accurately what I see in my head, overcoming the temporary writing blocks and making sure the stories continue to flow, and making sure to meet numerous deadlines one after the other all become worth it when I receive those acceptance letters and get to hold those books in my hand; seeing my name and my creative work in print. I love the thought that others are out there enjoying the imaginative erotic stories floating around in my head. I only hope they enjoy them half as much as I do.
This is the fourth short story of mine to be published and yet the happiness I feel is the same as if it were the first. All those long hours working hard to describe accurately what I see in my head, overcoming the temporary writing blocks and making sure the stories continue to flow, and making sure to meet numerous deadlines one after the other all become worth it when I receive those acceptance letters and get to hold those books in my hand; seeing my name and my creative work in print. I love the thought that others are out there enjoying the imaginative erotic stories floating around in my head. I only hope they enjoy them half as much as I do.
October 23, 2010
My budding writing career.
I am determined to become a successful full time erotic romance author. Not because of money as any author will readily tell you 'you most likely will not get rich off of getting your work published'. I want to be an author because I love to write and watch others read and enjoy my work. I am completely committed to getting the rest of the stories floating around in my head published. Whether it is in ebook or in print. I can always hope for both.
I also have a couple of short stories published in my myspace page blog where I started. The URL for my myspace page is www.myspace.com/Lovshas. Feel free to check it out and add me as a friend to leave comments or messages. I promise to get back as soon as possible. I haven't updated those short stories mainly because I have been submitting works to every open call submission I can find while working on my own novel ideas. I am glad there are so many and I have been very busy with my writing.
Those manuscripts I've been working on are still currently in progress. I hope to finish one by the end of this year. Once I am finished then I will start contacting publishing companies with interest letters to see who is even accepting submissions at this time. Well that is it for now. Would gladly be open to comments and advice from other authors who have been in my shoes and know how it is when you're just starting out in this industry.
I also have a couple of short stories published in my myspace page blog where I started. The URL for my myspace page is www.myspace.com/Lovshas. Feel free to check it out and add me as a friend to leave comments or messages. I promise to get back as soon as possible. I haven't updated those short stories mainly because I have been submitting works to every open call submission I can find while working on my own novel ideas. I am glad there are so many and I have been very busy with my writing.
Those manuscripts I've been working on are still currently in progress. I hope to finish one by the end of this year. Once I am finished then I will start contacting publishing companies with interest letters to see who is even accepting submissions at this time. Well that is it for now. Would gladly be open to comments and advice from other authors who have been in my shoes and know how it is when you're just starting out in this industry.
