Even though some literary purists still look down on self-published authors, I'm happy that these authors' dreams aren't dependent on an agent believing in them, or an editor at some imprint taking a chance on them, or them having 200K Twitter followers, therefore making that chance more likely.
You just need a vision. Be it to self-publish and the book become so popular that some fancy NYC publisher is reaching out to buy your work...you know, since you're now worthy. Or, just to have an author website with a catalog of books that a small, but loyal following love. Or, just to leave a mark, an "I was here." Whatever it is, I'm happy the option is there to share the people and places you created.
I've been in the mood for romance lately, and while there's no lack of steamy love stories to add to my Amazon cart, what is lacking are stories featuring damsels and heroines who look like me. Who live and love like me.
Sure, the "my baby daddy just got out of jail, and he don't know I'm now with his brother" books appeal to folks. And I'm happy they have these books. But what about me?
The women who want to read about a secret club where all your fantasies can be fulfilled....but at what cost. Why can't I have the romance, mixed with a little danger, a little magic and thrills, thrown together with some sci-fi elements to create a fantastastical page turner?
Guess I can. I just have to write it. And publish it. And market it. And sell the hell out of it. And build a fan base. Sigh.
I'm still not published yet. Here's to getting one step closer.
