![]() Howdy, Crazies! Since becoming an indie author and now a publisher, I’ve gotten a lot of flak about being multi genre. Frankly, it makes me laugh. There are those who say that multi genre can’t work and that, in their experience, readers don’t like it. I’ve had the opposite experience. I’m not sure if it’s that my brand is built around my crazy desire to try anything once or if my readers are as eclectic and gutsy as I am, but I know what works for me and what’s been working for Crazy Ink. One of our slogans is that it takes all kinds. I believe it. While we all have our favorite genres, I think those who limit themselves to one genre in fear they will upset their readers are missing out. I like to give my readers more credit than that. People are not one dimensional. Some days, we are in the mood for something dark. But other days, we are looking for different. Just like moods, reading tastes can change from time to time and, for me, I have found that most of my readers are willing to follow me on my crazy ride. I didn’t set out to be multi genre. I did set out to write books that touched people. When I write fiction or step outside my favorite genres, it’s because I’m either in the mood to try something different or want a challenge. One of my favorite things to do is to let readers pick what book I’m writing next and/or use them as sparks to shape a story. By getting readers involved, I’ve found they feel more vested in the work and are happy to help promote and share. But that’s me. And the rumor is that I’m crazy. I’ve tried all genres. There are some I’m just not good at. Others come naturally. I don’t let that stop me. Instead, I pick up a book in the genres that are more challenging and try to figure out what authors are doing to make that genre work. Overall, I believe this stretches my writing and helps me improve. At the same time, they say you should write what you know. I agree. Stories based on real-life clients are easiest for me. They practically write themselves and I’ve been told my passion for the work I do translates to the page. I don’t get that kind of feedback in genres I have to work harder at. However, in taking risks and playing with new genres, I’m also finding that I have new favorites. My readers are experiencing this too. I believe writing is art. It gets messy and it’s all subjective. One day, I might be attracted to something abstract and another day something more realistic. I don’t think there are really any wrong answers. Part of life is trying new things and going where the moment takes you. From a publishing point of view, by taking submissions in all genres, I’m creating a bigger pool of readers to draw from. One author’s readers will soon become another’s. Because of the support and networking our authors do, they tend to share readers. I’ve watched horror authors pick up paranormal readers and visa versa through readers being brave enough to try something new. I think this is a beautiful thing. So for those who think multi genre can’t work, well, I disagree and would encourage you to stretch your wings. Give readers and yourself more credit than that. No one I know lives their life in one mood all day every day. Don’t be afraid to play with the words on the page. Like paint on a canvas, you might be surprised what comes up if you just let your imagination run and throw THE CRITIC away… Happy writing guys. Stay crazy and try new things!
4 Comments
Kim
8/14/2018 20:17:15
I agree with this. I love trying something new and also finding new authors. That is how I found Erin. I saw a 5 pack of paperbacks in a special bundle. I went for it. All the books were different and I fell in love with each one. I enjoyed them so much that I started grabbing any book she put out. Then any book she recommended. Before I knew it, I had bookshelves full of amazing authors. Another thing I love about CI. Everyone is different with a different style. If one book doesn't work for you, there are so many others to try!
Reply
Erin W
8/14/2018 21:22:53
As a reader, I completely agree. What I read does all depend on the mood I'm in. I have a few favorite genres, but some days I'm in the mood for a light book, other days I want a horror that will upkeep me up at night. Writing different genres and having so many authors in your group is a fantastic way for me to get all I want in one place. Thank you!
Reply
8/15/2018 04:20:40
When I first said “Ok, I’m going to publish” I thought I would be a romance author. While I’m working on romance now, most of the publishing I’ve ended up doing and have planned with CI is nearly every dang genre. I love the ability to try my hand at different genres and styles through short stories and anthologies. Crazy Ink gives authors a unique opportunity to experiment with their writing and find their voice and hone their craft while still being an active and respected member of the book world community.
Reply
Kiarra
8/15/2018 10:28:33
Love, love, love this! Multi-genre is where it's at. Tastes vary and lucky for us, books are the spice of life!
Reply
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Join the madnessFollow my journey through the crazy world of indie publishing, writing and growing a business. Here, you'll find news on releases i am excited about, support for other authors through blog tours and blitzes because #Sharingiscaring and more! AuthorErin Lee, who also writes as EL George, is a USA Today Bestselling multi genre author unafraid to chase the madness. Author of more than 100 titles and creator of Crazy Ink Publishing, LLC, she'll try anything once and never turns down a dare. Archives
May 2022
Categories |