At a Crossroads

[CrimsonMaiden]

I find myself at a crossroads and am uncertain as to which fork in the road to take. My ultimate goal is to write a mystery novel (and obviously, sell it.) However, I think actually being able to devote the time and effort needed for that type of novel is something that won't be feasible for me until at least this time next year (most of the kids will be in school then.)

What I can't make up my mind about is this:

Should I just continue on like I have for the past year and write for Lit and then begin work on the more complex mystery novel when things in my life settle down a bit?

Should I try to pursue getting some of my erotica published?

If I did manage to get published (and it would be under a pen name if I did), would it affect my chances of being published as a main stream mystery author?

That last question is what I'm most concerned about.

And of course, all of those questions hinge on whether or not I am even a good enough writer to get published.

Anyone here gone through a similar quandry? Anyone know the answer to that third question?

 

[doormouse]

Pen names don't mean much. Most published authors use one.

A publisher will ask the author what name they want to be published under.

I have kids too, and writing when I can, what I hope will be a psychological thriller. Don't wait until the kids go to school. You might lose inspiration. Go for it when you can. I know it's really hard when they're so young, but they have to sleep sometime LOL


Your question about writing for lit.. I've seen many published authors 'tease' by submitting a chapter or two of their upcoming books. It's a great way to attract readers and buyers.

What ever you choose hon, you ARE good enough. Never give up that notion!! If one publisher rejects your work, send it on to the next. Never give up.

Best of luck with what ever you decide

 

[pop_54]

It's going to be a long haul Crim darling... if I were you I'd relax and enjoy our Lit writing to keep your hand in... but I'd also begin the outline of your serious work as soon as possible... Practice makes perfect as they say... draft a few chapters and see where it seems to be going prior to beginning in earnest... If you wait and try to wack it all out in one go you might lose the plot with fatigue if nothing else... Old Boy Scout Motto... Be prepared.(Another is don't try to pick up the golden coin, it's glued down)

 

[doormouse]

I wonder if you know how true your words are Pop.

I won't even read my own stories unless I get in the right mind frame to read them as they're written.

I've submitted my edited stories twice... the first time, fuck knows what happened, but i've resubmitted them

Still pending

When I write, I load my favourite music, have it turned down low and type away.

When it's time with the kids, I won't answer a single message. Kids come first. When I'm writing, I'll reply and curse, but seeing my status is always 'writing' when I do, I hope my friends realize they come second.

 

[gauchecritic]

Should I just continue on like I have for the past year and write for Lit and then begin work on the more complex mystery novel when things in my life settle down a bit?

Should I try to pursue getting some of my erotica published?

If I did manage to get published (and it would be under a pen name if I did), would it affect my chances of being published as a main stream mystery author?

Yeah go with the practice with Lit. At some point in your novel you will become heartily sick of it. That's the time to write something else and Lit is as good a place as any. But I would keep the pot bubbling on the novel, even if it's only making notes.

The second question translates to: Should I stop trying to make money or becoming well known? You know the answer to that one surely?

Last question. You seem to be saying that you only have one pen name. Think up another for Cliff's sake. Who said you can only have one? Initially, the only people who are going to know you write 'porn' will be your agent and publisher if they ask to see 'other' work.

Gauche

 

[CrimsonMaiden]

Oh, no... I already have thought up 2 different pen names (one for erotica, one for mystery). What I was wondering was if the mystery publishers found out I was a published erotica author would it make a difference in whether or not they would publish a mystery book written by me.

The second question really depended alot on the answer to the third question.

Thanks to all who have replied so far.

 

[gauchecritic]

Oh, no... I already have thought up 2 different pen names (one for erotica, one for mystery). What I was wondering was if the mystery publishers found out I was a published erotica author would it make a difference in whether or not they would publish a mystery book written by me.

The second question really depended alot on the answer to the third question.

Thanks to all who have replied so far.

Only if they're not actually interested in their 15-30% cut.

Gauche

 

[Black Tulip]

My evil twin,

At least one of us should go for the fame and glory!

Serious though, I agree with the others. Keep writing for Lit and start or keep the bigger work bubbling at the back of your head.

Thinking on outline, characters, doing research is all possible I think to keep you going.

Good luck.