Don’t be afraid to experiment with your writing.
So what does that even mean?
For five years I targeted Harlequin Mills and Boon because that was the house I wanted to be published with. I did eventually progress from form rejections to personal ones and then onto revisions but something just wasn’t clicking. However, HM&B was where my heart lay and I was determined to succeed!
But eventually, disheartened, I decided to try writing single title. And then paranormal romance (which I had always loved). At the insistence of my CPs I finally pushed right out of my comfort zone and tackled erotic romance – something I had always insisted I would never do because it was far too difficult!
Suddenly, it was as if a great halogen lamp exploded overhead! My voice fit the dark, erotic tone as if this was where I had always meant to be. As another experiment to stretch my writing muscles further, I then wrote my very first erotic historical romance – and it was that book that landed me an agent and two book deal.
So this is my tip: Sometimes it really does pay to try another sub-genre you love – even one that you might not have considered attempting before. It could make all the difference between “thanks but no thanks” and “We love it! Please sign on the dotted line!”
Visit Christina Phillips Website
Purchase Christina’s upcoming release, FORBIDDEN ~ Berkley Heat, Sep 2010
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May 2nd, 2010 at 8:53 am · Link
I completely agree, Christina! Great tip! :)
May 2nd, 2010 at 11:39 am · Link
Very good advice
May 2nd, 2010 at 11:40 am · Link
It’s good to know you have such astute crit partners, because they always know best…. and I should know, as I am one
May 3rd, 2010 at 5:42 am · Link
Hi Cari and Maria – thanks!
Hey Sara – that is very true. I always listen to my fab CPs!!!
May 5th, 2010 at 6:31 am · Link
Fantastic tip, Christina! I love this. And what a wonderful author’s story you have. You know I agree with your tip! I’ve experienced similar things in publishing. I did stick with my fav sci-fi, but certainly added erotica elements! It worked for me! My scifirom, Forbidden Love will release on May 20!
Sorry I’m late to this party!