#ThrowBOOK Intro.

I'm not at all encouraging people to throw literature.
Do not be rough with the books.

I am creating a throwback feature to go back to the books I have published and discuss my writing process - my favourite artwork from the book - and where to buy it, etc.
I've chosen to post '#Throwbooks', as success is not something that is instant, it can happen years later, for example, I'd created books years ago, but they are coming onto people's radars now. I don't know why the sudden surge of popularity, but I'm definitely pleased it is happening. It's not a race.

The posts will be spread out to ensure I'm not overwhelming my blog readers with self promotion. This is merely an introduction to what I will be writing about in the near future - it'll also help readers find books I haven't managed to promote as much as I'd like to.

I'm looking forward to going through my old books and picking and choosing my favourite parts. It is also a chance to see my writing strengths and what I need to work on for the books I'll be writing in the future.

So, keep your eyes peeled on the blog for '#ThrowBOOK'!

Novel Research : What Are Other Indies Up To?

I've only mentioned 'research' when I first started my novel - which is still nowhere near finished, please don't question it - and when I discovered you can use it as an excuse to take lots of trips and your husband has to be supportive...

Whilst being more involved with the Twitter's writing community, I've noticed a few patterns and themes within people's queries or pitches. Young Adult and Sci-Fi seems to be what people are looking for / writing themselves.

And I have no idea how to write YA fiction, and I worry too much about plot holes in Sci-Fi stories to even attempt - so as you can see it's off to a good start.
The second most popular genre I've found is Fantasy. I can't write that either.
I cannot for the life of me get into fantasy, books nor television, my brain just doesn't accept it.

BUT - if all of these other indie authors are writing YA, Sci-Fi and Fantasy, then why would mine stand out? Why shouldn't I jump on the band wagon? Shouldn't I be working on something else entirely to distance myself from already popular genres?
YES, I should.
Right, I'm almost out of options. Lots of indies are strong with Sci-Fi or Fantasy. So, the best thing I can do is play to my strengths. I can write comedy, so that's the direction I'll send my novels in. It's always good to stand out - especially if you'll be out of your depth if you attempt something you're not knowledgeable about.

Do your research! It's good to know what's popular with other indies, so you can decide if you're diving in with them, or stepping back to rethink.
The writing community is very friendly so making a query will not go unheard!