Don't Tell Me What To Do

Spring is here! What a difference a year makes too! Last April, Pooh was in the hospital for two weeks. Even after his release, my baby's troubles were far from over. This year though, he's doing so well. His health has improved greatly and he's actually put on a little weight.

Also last year at this time, I was emotionally stuck and had trouble focusing enough to write. This year, I was doing final edits for Broken Memphis while beginning to write In the Wind. Yeah for productivity!!!

Last year was the first time I did my taxes with any real income as an author. It was a little overwhelming to be honest. I hoped 2014 would improve my brand. Even with the late start publishing last year, my income increased by 20,000. Yah!!! Then I was shocked by the reality of paying more in taxes this year than I made in all of 2012. Wowzer! Self-employment has many benefits, but taxes ain't one of them.

With the release of Broken Memphis, I have finished two romance series. The three book signings coming up later in the year could prove distracting, so I'm planning on writing only a short series and standalone books in 2015.

Today is the two-year anniversary of publishing Damaged and the Beast. With that one book, I went from fifteen sales a month to thousands. Twelve Bijou stories later, I am still learning and improving. Marketing is my bane and I suck at it. Fortunately, many great readers, bloggers, and authors have helped me get the word out about my books. Nothing like having best selling authors such as Aurora Rose Reynolds and Jen Frederick pimping your books. It really makes me feel like the geeky girl in the corner getting a nod from the cool kids.

Miranda gets much of the credit for my success. Her feedback makes me a better writer. Her covers help me stand out in a crowded market. Her support keeps me from turning bitch on stressful days. She's awesome enough to have already completed the cover for In the Wind. Candy Girl is on fire. ;)

April is a happy month so far. Getting into a groove, I'm even writing at Denny's again. In fact, I should get back to writing right now. I plan to publish In the Wind in June. That'll be one busy month, so I better get my ass in gear.