The First Time

If you’re a parent, you’re familiar with the joy and pride of dozens of first experiences. From the first time you hear your baby cry and hold her in your arms to watching her take her first steps and say her first words.

Even if you don’t have kids, you have many of your own first experiences – the magic of your first kiss, the exciting feeling of driving home from DMV with your brand new driver’s license or the pride you felt on the first day of your very first job. It’s an amazing feeling.

For authors there are even more first experiences to look forward to… and worry about. The first rejection if you submit to a traditional publisher, your first publication, the first sale and the first review. It’s such an emotional roller coaster.

As you may know, I recently wrote Forbidden Kisses as part of the Story of a Kiss anthology.  A Military Romance in which Layla, who is an enlisted member of the Navy, meets the perfect guy while she’s on leave. After several fun-filled days and passionate nights, she discovers Ethan is also in the Navy – and he’s an officer! According to military regulations personal relationships between officers and enlisted members are prohibited. In order to avoid disciplinary action and protect both of their careers, they need to put an end to their relationship. Unfortunately, they share a fiery attraction and have already gotten in too deep.

Last week I had a wonderful first experience when the hard copy of  Story of a Kiss arrived in the mail. It’s great to read the electronic version of a story you’ve written, but for me, there is nothing like holding the tangible fruit of my labor.  It felt more real. I picked up a copy, squealed, spun around. And touched it… over and over. I flipped through the pages and looked at the words that I wrote.

I have a copy by my bed and a copy in my car. I still can’t get over it.

Today I experienced another first. My first not-so-wonderful review. (I know! I’m just as shocked as you are!) I’ve known from the beginning that not everyone would enjoy my writing, but still – ouch. Seeing that review made me doubt – just for a while, but it also increased my motivation to make my future work even better.

Next month I’m scheduled to attend a book signing.

I know! Me! I’m extremely nervous, but hopefully it will be a step to move my writing career forward. If you’re in the area on March 12, 2016, come by Bahama Breeze and see how I do at another first.