Writing a novel is an act of love. Which is why authors tend to think of their books as their children. And also why they love their first one as much as their tenth, or twentieth, or ninetieth equally. Or so they say.
Truly, there are some books which were conceived in total bliss and love, and which turn out to be not what was imagined at conception. The bizarre thing is that the author's opinion is seldom that of all readers. This is why authors are constantly shocked when a favorite gets bad reviews and a novel they worry about because of flaws they see when it's too late to change a thing are praised to the skies. Most authors I know can't judge their own work.
And so whenever a new book comes out, the author is anxious as a parent when a beloved child sets out for school for the first time. Will that treasure baby meet bullies or good friends? How will it do? What will the world think of it? In the case of books, we find out fairly quickly. We are told. Not just by reviewers, but by buyers, and the invisible gods who buy for book chains. Even those who review anonymously on Amazon.com - who might be grade school enemies who have been looking for a way to get back at the author because of a long forgotten fourth-grade insult.
This often leads me to wonder why there aren't on-line review sites set up for anonymous criticism of say - dentists, or baby-sitters, or receptionists. Why are creative types like novelists, film makers, actors and dancers the only ones who not only get this sort of treatment, but tolerate it?
This is all in preparation for telling you that my new book BRIDE ENCHANTED, from AVON, will be out in a matter of weeks, and I'm anxious about it, as always and ever.
I think it's neat! Reviewers have too! (A Top Pick and a KISS Award over at RT, for starters.) I SO enjoyed writing it. It's a bit different. A little paranormal and a lot Historical Regency set romance, and the characters are compelling, and the love story sweet and hot, and I recommend it utterly, of course.
But again, as ever, I fret, wondering about how you will like it. Why do I do this? Why do I spend months writing a book, and then weeks waiting to be lauded, or crushed? I know I'm not too tightly wrapped, but am I a masochist?
Whatever I am, I can't help it. I'm a sucker for a pretty plot and a compelling story. It's what I do. I hope what you do is to buy the book and let me know what you think... gently, of course.