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 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.