Writing romance stories through these tumultuous times take courage. It's easy to allow yourself to become distracted by the news or by Twitter or Facebook, or even retreat to the pretty pictures in Instagram. So much going on, and I can't think of another time in my adult lifetime when the world needed uplifting stories more. So I write, and I read, and lose myself in mindless television and music and nature. Acts of creation and enjoyment and wishing I had the magic thing that would make the insanity stop. Of course I don't. I'm only human. As are we all.
Once upon a time, several years ago, I was terrified of public speaking. I decided ENOUGH and contacted every writing group within two hours of me and booked myself as a speaker at their meetings. I traveled around, gave my talks, and by the time I'd finished six months of this, I was no longer scared to speak to groups. I tackled that fear head on. Unfortunately, I cannot do that with what's going on today.
I, like so many others, wrestle with dealing with reality these days, I feel powerless. Broken. Devastated by the state of our country today. Unable to help, unable to make much of a difference. But then, as I put my thoughts together for this blog today, I realized small things CAN help too. Many small things add up to one big thing. I can support authors of color - heck, I already do that, but I will do it more. I will write more reviews when I love a book, and I'll put the word out via social media, so that others can read the book too. A small gesture, but if enough of us do it, surely it will help bring some light to beat back the shadows.
And I can share my own good news. In the middle of Covid-19, I received a new 4 book contract from Harlequin Romantic Suspense. I get to work with my favorite editor Patience Bloom and write stories I love.
June is also a book birthday for me. My book Colton's Last Stand is out now. Check it out HERE
If you read it and like it, please consider leaving me a review. While it is book 12 in the series, it's also a stand-alone story.
Romance Gems Rafflecopter is on for the entire month. You can access the entry form HERE
I've been struggling with writing in the past few months also. I'm getting words down but they don't seem to be flowing as easily as they typically do! I pray every night for acceptance and love and unity in this world! Good luck with your new book and congrats on the new series! I've met Patience several times and she is a lovely person.
ReplyDeleteKaren, it’s difficult to write happy endings during days as dark as these. But we can and do help readers get through ... it’s why we write, so they can read and escape for a few hours. It’s important. Congratulations on the new contract! Very exciting!
ReplyDeleteWonderful post Karen. My mother always said, "Small things add up." I like your plan and may borrow a couple of your ideas. Thanks so much for sharing.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your sale, especially during such dark times. I have found I do my best writing in times that aren't good. It is a time to inspire others and get inspired. AS writers we uplift others. Keep doing what you do.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I am able to write more when I'm struggling personally. I don't know why that is. So much in our lives takes courage. So many things are scary or require a stiff backbone. I'm glad you got a new contract! I love the cover!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the book contract. And you were very determined and brave to meet your fears head on. Enjoy your writing time.
ReplyDeleteA very thoughtful post, Karen. Congratulations on book 12 and the new contract.
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