Being able to live off of my writing, on some level. But also being someone's favorite author. Changing the culture, pushing the narrative, improving with every work, and making connections. I'm not there yet, I know that. But I am closer with every release.
Oh boy. Lots going on in publishing period, but since I self publish I think the practice of stuffing books in kindle unlimited unfairly takes opportunities from authors who are honest.
I once heard that my writing reminded someone of Terry McMillan and I was absolutely giddy. To be compared to anyone is really a compliment, to be honest.
Well, I hope I have become a better, more skilled writer. I have certainly learned a lot about plotting, putting a story together, keeping interest through the middle and bringing the story to a close. I believe that reading good writing helps every author, so I have taken strengths from other authors and put them to work for myself. My writing style has matured and, I believe, improved greatly over the past five years. Although i still read my debut and wouldn't change a thing.
I read reviews, but for a specific purpose and only select reviews. I fully believe that reviews are for readers, to share the experience with others who want to buy the book. I like for review spaces to be clear of that 'hovering' feeling, like the author is watching. Readers should feel free to be themselves in those spaces.
Well, I saw some great advice the other day that I subscribe to-- use your emotion. Journal your hard days, your tough moments and use that. It deepens your writing and makes your scenes more realistic. But also find a way to step out, step away, get some distance and clarity to give you perspective. At times, a scene that seemed perfect yesterday is entirely too dramatic today.
