Despite the many fine reviews for all three books in my Tallenmere series, I've been largely unsuccessful in selling them to the reading public. I suppose we all take that chance when we publish something. You just never know what will appeal to readers at any given time. Save but a few wonderful fans (and I love you all), I've been unable to gather an audience that is interested in buying what I have out there.
Before you think I'm into writing for the money...no, I am not. Yet, after having spent a good year writing each book and working hard to promote them to the best of my ability and budget, I simply cannot afford tokeep spending my time and limited funds on the series for nothing in return. I have a family of five to feed and clothe. If I keep spending more than I bring in, it's not being responsible.
The sad reality of such low interest has threatened to bring me down into a serious depression. I can't let that happen, so I'm switching gears for a while. I'm not motivated to write anything more about Tallenmere just yet, though I certainly plan to when I sort myself out and get on a positive track. The novella I started and Book Four will be written, but I can't guarantee when they'll be finished. Until then, I'm focusing on other writing projects and paid writing-related work.
I hope those of you who are waiting for more from Tallenmere will understand as I go through this little period of mourning. I'll always be proud of what I accomplished and will forever love the characters and stories from Tallenmere. I appreciate everyone who's supported me over the years in any way. Hopefully, I'll have some positive news to share in the near future.
Until then, stay tuned here on Unwritten for contests, reviews, and all that jazz. ~Mysti
Pages
- The Dragon's Lair (aka Home Page)
- Publications and Where to Buy
- Excerpt from A Ranger's Tale
- Serenya's Song (Tallenmere #2) Prologue
- Hearts in Exile (Tallenmere #3): Chapter One
- **WARNING** For Mature Readers ONLY!! A Glimpse of "No Place Like Home", Book #4 in the Tallenmere Series
- Tallenmere Series Playlists
- UPDATED 11/17/15: Book Reviews by Mysti
- Find Me Online
- Why I Can't Write About My Dreams
You are a talented writer, Mysti.
ReplyDeleteI hope you will attain whatever you are expecting to attain. Writers' lives abound in rocky patches...
Good luck with all your new projects.
Thank you, Julia. The rocky patch has gone on too long, and though I love my series, I can't keep putting so much into it without getting anything back. I have to bring in more income and stop spending so much on this very expensive hobby. Our bank account has suffered long enough.
DeleteI am so sorry to hear this but can also say I feel your pain. I had no idea what it would be like when my first book was published. You're right. It's hard work and takes a lot of time, effort and even our own money. I agree with you that I don't write for the money but would like a little recognition, not much, just something to keep me going. Please know there is a big support group out there and we have to stick together.
ReplyDeleteRight, Nancy, just to break even or make a little profit to show all my work is not in vain. I know it sounds all noble to say, "I don't write for the money", but when you actually have books published and are encouraged by a publisher to market and sell those books, it's really discouraging when you can't despite working hard at it.
DeleteThere just comes a point when you have to know when to quit as far as trying to get folks to buy what you write.
As long as you keep writing, I'll follow you across whatever genre you explore next!
ReplyDeleteYour President,
Lindsey
Thanks Lindsey, I really appreciate your support over the past few years. I'd have gotten nowhere without it.
DeleteMysti, I'm very sorry to hear this, but I understand completely. I look forward to see what your next project will be, and will post a review for the Tallennmere books 2&3 when mom is done reading the copies I bought her :) If you ever need an ear--non-pointed--just send me an email :) Hugs
ReplyDeleteThanks Tara. You're so sweet and I'll always admire your spirit! I'm so happy to have met you. I need to catch up on my Tara reading too!
DeleteLash will be glad to hear it...he's been asking about you :)
DeleteDon't forget that ReadaroundSue is always happy to read your books and will always give you a great review. You have a lot of talent, Mysti. Always remember that.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Sue! I'm really glad we met :)
DeleteSending prayers for you Mysti...You have accomplished more than many and perhaps God has something else in store for you. Hang in. I know that whatever you decide to write will be, as always, awesome! We all deserve a short bout of "down time" but don't let it keep you there! ((hugs and prayers))
ReplyDeleteThanks Debbie! I'm feeling better about switching gears with each day that passes. It's feeling good to be picking up some paying work and taking the metaphor class is revving my mommy brain :)
Delete