Thoughts on reviews and first one for 'Ashes' is in...

Since my first book came out in 2009, I've learned a lot about how to deal with reviews and reactions, and to take them as they come. I've been so lucky to have a wonderful group of readers and fans who have encouraged me and given me the inspiration to keep writing even when I felt like the well was all dried up. Knowing there are people out there who are entertained by the stories I tell is one of the coolest things on earth, and it's one of things that remind me to write from my heart and believe in my storytelling.

But, even with the good, I felt a strong tendency in the beginning to focus more on the negative than the postive. I could read ten great reviews and one meh one, and be so affected by the meh one, despite the others. Then, I found myself taking everything to heart (even though I knew better). I learned pretty quickly when I sat in front of a blank monitor with Charlie #2 and felt paralyzed, that I had to stop letting every outside influence and comment affect what I wrote and how I tell my stories. Granted, there have been wonderfully written criticisms that I have indeed learned from and been grateful for, but for the most part, I find that what one reader hates, another one loves. And I'm not going to mess with the love. ;-) So I make sure my energy is better spent writing what makes me want to sit down and write everyday. I must stay true to my creative vision or else all the fun and joy of writing goes right out the window. And, trust me, you guys would be able to tell the difference!

Anyway, first reviews . . . those are the ones that give me the most anxiety and hope. Seeing that first one pop up in my inbox always leaves me feeling hesitant to open. I want the first one to be good, you know? At least then, no matter what follows, I can tell myself that at least one person liked it. So, on that long-winded note, the first one for THE HOUR OF DUST & ASHES is in and YES! Happy and relieved and just . . . yay! And relieved. So relieved...

“…it seems to be the indomitable Charlie Madigan’s fate to prevent one disaster only to have a new one crop up in its place. For her third outing, Gay forces Charlie to make difficult choices that will have major ramifications personally and professionally. By continuing to define her world and add layers to her core group of characters, Gay ensures readers are in for one heart-pounding adventure!” 4 Stars ~ Romantic Times Magazine, Jill M. Smith