Five years ago this month, my dream of becoming a published romance author was realized. At times, it feels like much longer; yet sometimes it feels like only yesterday. Isn’t time a funny concept? My hubby asks me about memories and occurrences, and I’m blown away by how much I don’t remember. Yet in the next instance, I’ll remember something so mundane or inconsequential, all hubby can do is shake his head. In a teasing manner, of course.
Years ago when I started writing, never would I have thought it’d take me until I was fifty to become published; considering the novel writing bug took hold in my mid-twenties. But then, I always seemed to be a late bloomer. I returned to college and became a dental hygienist in my early thirties while the majority of my classmates were at least a decade younger than me.
I think being older, mature, and having a variety of life experiences to draw from enhanced my writing as well as my approach to publishing. I don’t have an agent and I’m not with a major publishing house, but my work is out there for readers to enjoy. Thanks to Indie publishing as well as self-publishing through several platforms, practically anyone can write and publish these days. And standing out among the crowd can be a challenge. Do I aspire to become a best seller and known worldwide? Sure! What author wouldn’t want that? Doesn’t mean I’m any less-thrilled about my accomplishments so far, considering I’ve had twenty-six publications. And there’s no shortage of ideas for many more stories to come.
Last summer began my dive into self-publishing, with six titles. Only recently have I taken the step to get more of my work in print, and each time I hold one of my books in my hand, it’s an amazing and humbling feeling. One I’m sure will never get old. I know many readers want a book in hand, and I wanted to make that happen.
I gave my summer romance, Kiss Me at Sunset a makeover with a new cover, as well as a revised and lengthened content. This was such a fun and sexy story to write, starring mature characters. Readers who already have the ebook can update with the new version. It’s also one of my books available in print. Isn’t this cover gorgeous? I couldn’t be happier with it! In fact, I’m ecstatic about all my cover wraps which readers can view here. To celebrate my author anniversary, one lucky US reader will receive a signed paperback of Kiss Me at Sunset.
If you could accomplish any dream, what would it be? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll choose a winner.
My best!
Getting my dream house… maybe one day!
I hope that dream comes true, Colleen!
Winner chosen – Colleen, of course! 😉 Watch your email, Colleen, for details on your getting your copy of Kiss Me at Sunset.