In less than two weeks, I’ll be releasing my first novel, Pieces of Pink. As thrilled as I am to be putting my work out there, my friends and family have a lot of questions about my subject matter. So, I’d like to take some time to address those questions (along with a few lighthearted memes).
I hope this helps you all sleep better at night.
Q: Why are you self-publishing/indie publishing?
A: This answer is actually pretty simple. I tried the traditional route, and the personalized rejections I received said something to the effect of: “We love your writing style, but this story is a bit much for us right now. If you write anything less graphic, please send it our way!”
Q: Wait . . . how graphic are we talking?
A: If you can handle Game of Thrones, you’ll be fine.
Q: The main characters are prostitutes, right? So, is it like 50 Shades of Grey?
A: No. Pieces of Pink may be about prostitutes, but it’s NOT erotica. The sex scenes are not meant to be ‘hot.’ They’re meant to be a critical examination of the horrors that can be inflicted upon citizens by their own government.
Q: But there are sex scenes, right?
A: Yes. It would be difficult to write a story that takes place in a brothel without including any intercourse. But again, don’t get too excited. The book’s not about sex, it’s about society.
Q: You do know your parents are going to read this book, right?
A: Yes. But I try not to think about it too much.
Q: What about your grandparents? Won’t you be embarrassed?
A: Look, guys. I understand this book won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. If the sex and violence make you feel uncomfortable, you don’t have to read it. There are other ways to support budding authors . . . like occasional deliveries of cookies and coffee.
Q: Is it scary?
A: It’s not horror in the traditional sense, but it is horrifying. The novel takes place in a country where all citizens are born into their profession/caste. There’s very little free choice and no social mobility or fluidity. I’m sure that doesn’t scare some people, but it sure as hell scares me.
Q: Aren’t you worried that no one will hire you after publishing something like this?
A: Nope.
Q: Are you excited?
A: Is the “Ermagherd, books!” girl excited about Goosebumps?
Annelise Driscoll 