The Wednesday Word

Author To Author’s Newsletter                                                    

August 13, 2014

Are you ever self-conscious about what you write? 

This question was asked of me a couple of weeks ago at a book fair. I write contemporary romance and BDSM erotic romance, so this particular person was specifically asking about the sex I write in my books.

She went on to ask me if I would feel comfortable with my family reading what I wrote. The answer to that question is simple. Yes, I'm comfortable with my family reading my books. My mother and sister-in-law have read most of the books I've written.

Over the last three years, I've been asked these questions, and similar ones, regarding the genre I write. For a reason I'm still trying to wrap my head around, romance has this stigma attached to it. Granted there is some pretty racy stuff out there, but there are also sweet romances that contain no sex at all, and everything in between.

Romance is a genre that encompasses a huge variety of sub-genres and writing styles. At its heart, however, it is about relationships. Since when did love become that dirty word that can't be talked about?

Then again, it's not the love part some people have a problem with. It's the sex. Again, this confuses me. Most adults I know, especially those in romantic relationships, are having sex. It's human nature. So why is it taboo in books about the development of an adult relationship?

I'm not sure this stigma of the romance novel will ever completely go away. There will probably always be those who will look down their nose at the genre thinking it is inferior. It's not. There are romance authors that spend hours writing, revising, and editing the same as writers of any other genre. Writing is an art, no matter the genre.

 

Written by A2A Author and Contributor, Sherri Hayes. Learn more about Sherri on her website, www.sherri-hayes.blogspot.com

Exciting News for Author to Author Group Members

Lindsey Gray's Giveaway

Author Lindsey Gray has a giveaway going on to celebrate 1500 Likes on her Facebook page and the 2nd Birthday of her novel, Revisited. Check out the post pinned at the top of her Facebook page to enter! https://facebook.com/LindseyGray11

You can also check out Lindsey's radio show, Gray Matters. Catch up on past shows and listen to new ones as well! https://archive.org/details/GrayMattersRadio

Win a Signed ARC from T.M. Franklin

Join A2A Author T.M. Franklin on Goodreads for a very special giveaway! Entries are open now through August 21st! https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/103669-twelve

 

Wednesday's Weird Word

Anfractuosity

 This refers to a channel, crevice or passage full of windings and turnings, not quite a maze, though some mazes certainly take on an anfractuous appearance, one that is sinuous or winding.

Thank you for reading this edition of Author to Author's The Wednesday Word! Visit us again in two weeks for more news, savings, and giveaways to refresh your bookish pleasures! As always, feel free to share and spread the word! Have a wonderful day!