No, this post isn’t about authors who engage in…ahem…extracurricular activities. Today, I want to talk about authors who write across the genres.
Most serious authors seem to write either fiction or nonfiction. They strive to perfect their writing in one category before ever tipping their toe in another. Some never do cross over from nonfiction to fiction or vice versa. Yet, I’m noticing that more of us are. And in my circle or acquaintances and colleagues, it’s from nonfiction to fiction.
Those of you who follow my blog know that I have been writing nonfiction (how-to, informational) books and articles for a very long time. Now I’m writing fiction as well. I know several others who have followed a similar path. And it seems as though these are the authors who are experiencing the greatest success.
My success with the Klepto Cat Mystery series is beyond my wildest expectations. These cozies are selling like crazy. From what I observe about my colleagues who have shifted from long-term nonfiction-writing to fiction, they are also doing exceedingly well.
Why? Perhaps it’s because we’ve put in the time. We’ve honed our writing skills; we’ve established a style. We understand more about the publishing field than the newbie author. We know how to navigate the industry. We know the value of and the psychology of marketing. We understand the importance of exposure. Since we are already embedded in a writing-related career, we know how to manage our time, how much time and energy it takes to promote a new product, and we’re wired to do what it takes.
I’d like to shine a light on a few authors I know who are parlaying their writing/management talents and skills into other areas and experiencing success.
Susan C. Daffron just came out with her second novel. She’s engaged in a blog tour as we speak. Be sure to stop over and learn more about her new venture. http://www.susandaffron.com/blog-tour-chez-stinky-june-9-july-7 Susan is the author of two romantic comedies—Chez Stinky and Fuzzy Logic. I’ve read the first—just downloaded the second to my Kindle. Can’t wait!
C. Hope Clark is now also writing fiction. The third in her Carolina Slade Mystery, Palmetto Poison was released this year. Also check out Low Country Bribe and Tidewater Murder. I’ve read the first two and really enjoyed them. And it’s not just me, look at her collection of reviews. Impressive! Hope announced in her newsletter this month that her stories are being looked at by someone in the film industry. You go, Hope!!!
I’d love to hear from other nonfiction authors who are doing well in the world of fiction.