A short time ago I told someone I have outgrown my indie author pot, and like a pot-bound plant, it’s time for me to expand beyond what I am capable of in the independantly-published world. It’s true that I have enjoyed writing the stories I have written. It’s also true that I’ve enjoyed the freedom of writing and publishing them under my own banner and giving voice to the characters I have created. But I’ve also felt an increasing need to test the genres I work in.
I recently indie-published two romance stories I marketed as “adventure romances”. After feedback for the third of these books, I realized I was really writing romantic suspense, a distinctly marketable genre in its own right. The feedback from the beta reader and editors on this manuscript, and their encouraging words, have meant I am now confident enough to go after representation and a publishing deal. It’s a massive step, but one I’m happy to take because after all these years, I feel I am ready.
While I know I can walk this path, it will nonetheless be daunting. I cherish the support I’ve experienced over the years I have been an active writer from readers, fans, and fellow authors. It’s exciting for me to see the enthusiasm with which the people around me are embracing my changing path. I hope to honour the value these people have placed in me. It is humbling to know that I will still have their readership and friendship even as I begin this next phase.