This is super-relatable, Lisa. Not sure I have any advice but as time goes on, I find more and more solace in focusing on the writing and not on the selling/pitching. It's a daily battle to avoid comparison-itis but I try to remember how happy I felt to have one book in the world and remain grateful for all that has happened since. I'm especially grateful for the incredible people I've met - this is perhaps more significant than sales numbers. Publishing is an odd business where quality of course matters, but luck and timing seem equally important. I've now realised that I probably wouldn't enjoy the pressure that comes with being a mega-bestseller, nor would I enjoy being away from family for extended tours and publicity. I also sense that even the most successful authors perhaps never quite feel they've 'made it' because there are always bigger and better goals ahead. How much is enough? All you can control is your writing. That's it. And that's where to invest the energy.
Cassie, this is such a wise and thoughtful response. I agree totally. The act of writing itself has to be the main drawcard and source of satisfaction.
A poignant reminder for us all, Lisa. I recall going into BigW at the end of September the year my debut came out (released in June) and the employee was literally scooping my books of the shelves to make space for the "Christmas" big names. I wanted to sit down on the floor and cry! How were people supposed to discover my books after 3 short months? I was told I was lucky to have even had books in BigW because so many authors don't get that, which is true.
As has already been said, so much of the tough times in this industry are completely out of our control. Luck, timing and publisher investment play a much bigger role than the quality of the book, sadly. So we remind ourselves why we write: to tell stories that resonate with readers. That's all we can do. Oh and hope. We can always hope!
Keep your chin up, Lisa. I didn't know whether to be pleased or disappointed that my traditionally published debut book (2021) didn't get vacuumed up by the hallucinating language machine. Maybe the greedy gobblers don't like nonfiction? I'm a bit off Meta also because I got stalked there.
This is super-relatable, Lisa. Not sure I have any advice but as time goes on, I find more and more solace in focusing on the writing and not on the selling/pitching. It's a daily battle to avoid comparison-itis but I try to remember how happy I felt to have one book in the world and remain grateful for all that has happened since. I'm especially grateful for the incredible people I've met - this is perhaps more significant than sales numbers. Publishing is an odd business where quality of course matters, but luck and timing seem equally important. I've now realised that I probably wouldn't enjoy the pressure that comes with being a mega-bestseller, nor would I enjoy being away from family for extended tours and publicity. I also sense that even the most successful authors perhaps never quite feel they've 'made it' because there are always bigger and better goals ahead. How much is enough? All you can control is your writing. That's it. And that's where to invest the energy.
Cassie, this is such a wise and thoughtful response. I agree totally. The act of writing itself has to be the main drawcard and source of satisfaction.
A poignant reminder for us all, Lisa. I recall going into BigW at the end of September the year my debut came out (released in June) and the employee was literally scooping my books of the shelves to make space for the "Christmas" big names. I wanted to sit down on the floor and cry! How were people supposed to discover my books after 3 short months? I was told I was lucky to have even had books in BigW because so many authors don't get that, which is true.
As has already been said, so much of the tough times in this industry are completely out of our control. Luck, timing and publisher investment play a much bigger role than the quality of the book, sadly. So we remind ourselves why we write: to tell stories that resonate with readers. That's all we can do. Oh and hope. We can always hope!
So true, Kylie. All we can do is focus on the craft and hope for the best! Xx
Hi Lisa thank you for such an insightful and interesting piece. I love your Substack posts they are so high quality and really great topics
Thank you, that’s such lovely feedback!
Also, (responding to emotional challenges for second book syndrome), remembering the trad way isn’t the only way. Takes the pressure off.
That’s very true
Keep your chin up, Lisa. I didn't know whether to be pleased or disappointed that my traditionally published debut book (2021) didn't get vacuumed up by the hallucinating language machine. Maybe the greedy gobblers don't like nonfiction? I'm a bit off Meta also because I got stalked there.
Gosh, stalking sounds awful, and thanks, I’m doing fine. I’d say it’s a good thing if your book somehow escaped Zuck’s clutches this time
I totally agree with all of this! Thanks Lisa x I love these strategies. Cutting down on insta on my wish list x
It’s hard to do but every time I manage it I feel so much better
Well said, and it sounds like you've come up with some very sensible strategies to deal with the dreaded second book syndrome so well done too!
Thanks, Kyra! It’s yet another unexpected challenge on this adventure.