It has come to my attention (and this is not a new thing) that books which follow a formula or a trope are the ones which will sell. This is the case for all genres, from crime to fantasy to romance. I have also come to the conclusion that I'm fine with that.

I know I have been ranting on, both on this blog and on facebook and wherever, but really it doesn't bother me that certain books and certain authors in every genre will always get the limelight. That's the nature of the business, after all.

When I first started writing really seriously a few years ago, I was ambitious beyond words. I wanted my books on every shelf in every bookstore. I wanted signings every weekend and publishing deals that would make me blush at the sight of all those zeros. I wanted people (readers) to love my work.

But I no longer desire any of that. I want to write, first and foremost. I want to produce good quality literature in my chosen genre and I want to be able to proudly proclaim, as I send it off to my publisher, that I honestly did the best I could. I know I have loyal fans out there who buy my books on a regular basis, and that's fantastic. I don't want to disappoint them...or myself. I want the word of mouth to spread that my books are worth buying.

I other words, there is no instant magic pill for success when you're a writer. Hard work, persistence and being true to ones self are what will get those sales in the end. Trust me, I know. I am still considered a new writer, and getting word out is the hardest thing about writing, especially when there are so many authors and so many books.

So, to put my money where my mouth is, comment on this post for your chance to win a copy of Shadows of the Mind, the first book in the Pembroke Eve Chronicles, one that has been reviewed and received very well indeed.