Move over Billionaire Bear shifters, it's time for the next trend.

As shocking as this might sound - being an author is not just all about the writing. In fact, it is a business. Not only do we write, but we edit, publish, market, blog, tweet, hold book signings, lead workshops, sit on panels and attend conventions.
And another role of the author is to be on the look-out for trends. Sometimes to get in early, ahead of the pack. Sometimes we are late to the party - but we have a fresh take so we hop on the bandwagon.
And sometimes it is just to ensure that we steer well clear of a new, emerging trend, that already seems over bloated, and flagging fast.

I know, surprising, right? We don't just hide away in a dark corner, hunched over a keyboard, pounding out chapter after chapter. Oh, and let's not forget all the planning, plotting and character development that occurs before the first key is ever struck.
Honestly, it's a wonder any of us ever find the time to actually write.

But I'm digressing. Trends. It used to be sparkly vampires. Wolf shifters took over big time. Then bears had a moment. And extended that moment when they became filthy rich billionaire bear shifters. And then they managed to extend their moment in the sun a little more by having super sperm - seriously, how many titles did I see at one stage "Having the Billionaire Bear's Baby" ???? Or something in a similar vein.

Arising from the ashes of late - are the Dragons. Warrior Dragons. Dragon shifters in kilts. Dragon shifters who work a day job as fireman. You always know a trend is beginning to flag when the mash ups begin appearing - Vampire Dragon shifters, anyone?

I couldn't take a guess at the next trend on the horizon. And it wouldn't matter if I did - I've said previously I can't write to a trend. The voice... muse in my head has an agenda of its own.
But still, I follow trends because I am in the business of writing. And not only that, I'm a reader. When a new trend hits, it can be exciting. Basically, a breath of fresh air before the niche becomes over-saturated with wannabe copycats.

Even better - are the authors who never write to a trend. Who zig and zag with their plot lines. Populating their stories with characters/creatures who are unique and creative. We are exposed to fresh worlds. New rules.
Yes, I like the familiar sometimes when I read. But I love being surprised. Swept away. Discovering new lands. A different Earth. New Heroines. Unique Heroes.

So move over Billionaire Bears (and your super sperm) - I think you've had your time in the sun.