Okay. I've clearly fallen off the blog wagon. But since my darling critique partner and fellow Newfoundlander Kate Robbins is back with the Romance Writers Weekly gang this week, I figured I'd follow my advice to her and get back to it as well.
If you've found your way here from my pal J.J. Devine, thanks for keeping up the hop. This week we're talking about how to feels to be an author, which is the most awesome job in the world, by the way. So without delay, here we go.
1. Describe that moment you first felt like a true author (not just an aspiring one).
That's a great question, and to be honest, I'm not sure. Perhaps it was at the Romance Writers' of America national conference in Atlanta in 2013. Against Her Rules had been out for about a month, and I had paper copies to give out in the goodie room. To see my book there in a room full of swag and samples and books from some of my favourite authors was pretty awesome.
2. Name three authors who you inspire you.
Just three? Well, here we go.
Bella Andre - I was in the dark about self-publishing until I read about Bella's success. So I credit her pioneering with giving me the confidence to do it myself.
Julia Quinn - My favourite romance writer (and that's saying a lot because I love so many writers.) But it was Julia's What Happens in London that really got me seriously thinking about writing romance. I love the wit and the humour in her stories. She does things with dialogue that I aspire to.
Christi Caldwell - Follow this author on Facebook and you'll see something amazing. She is a busy mom (twin toddlers and a child with special needs) and she's totally present in her kids lives. And still... STILL.... the number of books this woman produces is astonishing. I wish I had an inch of her energy and dedication.
3. Describe your favorite fan moment (either you as the fan or one of your readers approaching you as a fan).
I can't pick one. Every time I meet a fan (it still freaks me out a little that I have fans!) it's amazing. I love getting emails from people who have just discovered my books, or from people anxious for the next. There's nothing guaranteed to perk up my day than a great new email. But I love going to readings and signings and meeting people who are excited to read whatever it is I'm working on. Readers are the best! And there's no way I can have a favourite because they have all made me feel like an author. Thank you!
And now, dear friends, let's hop on over to Susan Scott Shelley to see her answers. Have a wonderful week, and I'll try my best to be back next week.