C.M. Owens, for sure. She is one of my favorite authors. Her ability to make you laugh while also gaping in shock at the plot twist. Betty White, she lived a very long life and had a ton of experiences. My grandparents, I miss them very much. (I know that is 4.)
e-books have opened new genres for people. Some are embarrassed on other's opinions on their choice of reading material. Since an electronic copy is available, a lot of expense no longer exists. Paper copies are not sitting around in large quantities.
I do most of my writing on the weekends. I do have a regular full-time job. Depending on my schedule and regular responsibilities, I try to write a couple days, during the week, so I don't lose my storyline.
I know, for myself, the cover is the first that catches the eye. Just like food, your eyes pick first. On the title, I have seen both good and bad. For my own, at least on the MC series, I tried to incorporate both characters into the title, ex The Dragon's Barista. Jasper is the dragon, Avery the Barista.
I am not sure I would officially label it writer's block. I wasn't sure what path I wanted the story to take. I walked away for a few days, read some other books, watched some television. Somewhere along the line, it clicked.
I do read them. One, less that stellar review actually helped. Another one made me angry, as my book was put down, but they only read about ten pages. I know that it will not appeal to all readers. I am writing for myself. If other can get enjoyment from it, that is great, I will have accomplished my goal.
I had considered writing for a number of years. I never felt confident to take that step. I wanted a specific genre/trope and could not find it. My husband had some serious health issues and I realized that if I didn't take that step I would never do it. After discussing it with him, he told me to go for it. I have been writing for about a year. My first book was published November 2021.