I teach a lot of workshops and do a lot of book events, which means I get to talk to a lot of people about my books.
Here are 5 Things I’ve Learned Talking to People About My Books
- No matter how many people read (and love) your book, they all get something different from it.
Some people at the external journey level for the adventure and the story, while others read on an emotional level for the character development and internal journey, and some people are deep readers who will see and experience multiple layers in a story, including some that you may not have consciously included or been aware of even during revision. But no matter how they read or experience the story, or which character they most fall in love with—like the reader who loved Kira’s horse Trad more than anything else in The Healer’s Legacy (I see you, Sam!)—they love to share that with you. And I am always happy to hear about it!
- Readers want (and deserve) to be seen.
Not only do readers feel seen when they relate to the characters in the book and the story, but—like most of us—when a writer whose work they love takes the time to talk to them, to listen to their dreams and aspirations for writing and/or other creative endeavors, to hear their love of story. Sometimes, it feels like a lot, especially for those of us who are introverts, but I always remind myself that readers are people who deserve kindness and courtesy, and all that takes is a little time and an open heart.
- All writers should be encouraged, especially when they are first starting out on their writing and publishing journeys.
As a pre-published writer, one of my early interactions with an established author was also one of my most encouraging and inspiring experiences. I met James Owen at a book signing he was doing for a new book. When it was my turn to have my book signed, he took the time to speak with me and encourage me to keep writing and doing what I loved. His kind encouragement not only helped me to keep pushing forward, but it stuck with me. This was many years ago, but has stuck with me, and I continue to try to always emulate James in my interactions with other writers. (Shout out to James: Thank you. Again!)
- Readers who love your books are a great resource for finding new books to read.
Readers who read what I write and love my books, also love a lot of other good books. And the books they love will typically be books you will enjoy, too. Every time I teach a writing class or do a book event, I come home with new recommendations for books I might never have found on my own.
- We are more alike than different.
It’s the human elements of story that resonate and bind us together. All the things that make a good story—the emotions, the desires, the need to see and be seen, and the knowledge that we too can face hard challenges and make difficult choices and, in the end, succeed—are universal. We all want to connect and belong, to be part of a community, to make good choices, and be joined by friends and allies on this amazing, sometimes perilous, journey called life. And stories are a wonderful way of doing that.
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If you’re interested in reading what I write, you can check out some of my books, like The Healer’s Legacy Trilogy, or my MG novel, Lostuns Found.
Or, if you like something a little darker, check out my collection of dark fantasy and light horror with a bit of humor. Blood From a Rose.
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Interested in what else I write? Check out my books!