My Decadent Journey So Far

Today, I'm sharing a part of my writing journey experienced with Decadence Publishing. I write sweet, contemporary romance, usually set in my home country, South Africa.

When I received my contract with Decadence for the Ubuntu line, I was over the moon. I somehow sensed that their authors were quality authors and felt privileged to be a part of their group. That instinct has proven true since I've joined their group and seen their work and blogs! I loved the efficient way my submission and contract was handled. I wasn't left in the dark at all.

What a privilege to have my third book being chosen for their new line, the Ubuntu Line, which is centred on Africa. I love setting my books in my own continent. Africa has been my only home. I hope the world will discover some of its mysteries and beauties through my book. And I would love to write more books for the Ubuntu line.

How can I describe how wonderful the editing process has been so far? Zee Monodee has done something to my book and brought it to another level. Her editing skills are masterful. No error seems to pass her by. Every little detail is worked on and improved. All this is done without belittling or dragging down my writer self. Instead, she adds the personal touch, easing the stress of the editing process. My writing has improved with her advice. I have insight that's going to carry me further in my writing career. I still haven't entered into the next editing phase and look forward to the lessons I will learn there too.

What I appreciate about Decadence is being able to belong to their yahoo group of authors. It's the best way to keep abreast of what's happening amongst the authors and managers at Decadence. Makes one feel part of a huge, very efficient team. I have to admit that sometimes I feel overwhelmed with promo. This group is teaching this wide-eyed girl one step at a time how to take it to another level. I've loved entering into the other authors' worlds by reading their blogs. I haven't experienced such networking with a publishing company before and it makes this author who sometimes feels cut off on the other end of the world, feel a part of the group.

My book, Dragonfly Moments, which should be released some time in the middle of the year, was great fun to write. The book was one of the first romances I wrote several years ago. That version looks very different to what it looks like now. I picked up the book again about a year ago and rewrote it after all that I'd learned. I changed almost the whole book but the core trope was the same - an old flame coming back into the heroine's life when she's quite settled with things the way they are.

Two beta readers helped me with the book and then I heard about the Ubuntu Line through our Romance Writers of South Africa Group. Dragonfly Moments seemed perfect for it, so I sent it off. When I received a letter saying I could resend it with revisions, hope blossomed. The revisions seemed workable and I made them straight away.

To be honest, I didn't expect to receive the contract after that. It took me totally by surprise. When I did, I knew good things were going to happen.

Tessa looks stunning on the cover - just as arty and unique as I wanted her to. The colours are rich, mysterious and African. Don't you love the glittery design next to her eye? At first you don't notice but it's the perfect little touch to show Tessa's arty, funky side which she allowed life to suppress until Ryan brought it out again.

If you're keen on reading other Decadent Publishing authors' journeys, go to this link: Other Decadent Authors' Journeys