From the beginning, my reason for this blog was two-fold, to give tips on writing and share my personal experience in surviving the publishing world from both sides - traditional and indie. When addressing the more unpleasant aspects of the business, some might consider this a form of negativity as I do tend to be bluntly honest, but I consider it reality. Of course, there was always the danger of people reading into my words a tone and attitude that isn't there. I believe in the old saying, being forewarned is being forearmed or as Scripture says, no king goes to war before he counts the cost.

Many writers go into publishing with stars in their eyes, eager for the best. This is natural, as expectations are high, and they need to retain some of this eagerness to face the reality of what being a published authors means - hard work!

Just like with a marriage, newlyweds joyously look forward to a life together, but don't understand the reality of what that means.  A new author has the same joy and euphoria when first published.  The achievement and attention is relished and exhilarating.  Yet, just like newlyweds, the bloom of the initial jubilation and bliss wears off once reality sets in on how to deal with readers, reviews, publishers, promotion and all manner of business being an author entails. Does this mean the author now faces drudgery for his/her efforts? Of course not.  However, sometimes aspects of the business are unsavory and unpleasant to deal with, but can't be ignored for their potential impact.

Same as in a marriage, the author needs to find support and ways to handle the new demands and navigate the chaos of the publishing world. The eagerness that first launched the author must turn into resolution tempered by knowledge to stay the course. One should never lose the enthusiasm for writing or pleasure of interacting with readers, rather approach the business side with shrewdness and caution when charting a course of action in marketing and promotion.

This is why I chose to deal forthrightly and not sugar-coat hard issues, because that is the world the author must face.  The Internet can help to connect, but it can also feel solitary and isolated when sitting at the computer and staring at a screen. My hope in discussing the problems common to authors, is for some to find comfort in knowing they aren't alone.

Yet, just to be clear - I love being an author!!! It has enabled me to meet wonderful people online and offline. I especially love, love, love events! If I could, I would bottle all the people and conversations to take home and open on days I'm struggling, so I can be uplifted by blissful remembrances. I wish to heaven there wasn't all this crap to deal with on social media and the fluidity of the market. In fact, I've constantly said to my husband I want to totally unplug from online and simply concentrate on writing and events!

With that said, at the end of April, I will be closing down All-On Writing. The demands of writing, events and conducting workshops require my undivided attention. Like all things, my 4 year journey of blogging will be come to an end.  I thank all of those who have followed me, and wish you all the best in your writing endeavors.

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