)O( Tea Witch's Musings )O(

I'm experiencing the difference between a writer and an author.  I used to just be a writer.  I struggled to find to write.  I never went anywhere without some sort of writing tool - a pen and paper, my pocket pc - something.  Now that the first book has been published, I struggle to find time to write and to promote and to do book signings.  I never go anywhere without a writing tool and a pen to sign books with.  And I never seem to go anywhere without a box of books stuck in the back of the car and some bills to make change with.  Real cash when I'd gotten used to relying on my check card.  After all, now I never know when someone will want to buy a book.   I sold four at writing group on Wednesday and three at beltane today.  Then there are good causes to donate to - like my writing group friends who read and reread the early drafts. Or the beltane raffle today.  The book was won by a young gay couple who would probably never have thought of buying it.  But they may enjoy it (and Patrick and Rafael, my openly gay characters), and they may tell friends about it.  And I may sell more books.  Because now that I'm an author, I really need to worry about this selling books part of the game.

Tea and Witchery has a 4 star review in the June Romantic Times.  A very good review.  The only problem is the Romantic Times website thinks I'm a romance writer named Cindy Dees instead of a new mystery writer - Marie Dees.  But here's a bit of the review:

TEA AND WITCHERY by Marie Dees
Four Stars ~ Reviewed by Donna M. Brown
"Uniting everyone to find the killer is a challenge, and the reader
is compelled to join the hunt in this intriguing page-turner."

I went to the big Beltane bash in St. Pete to sell books and talk about writing.  A great time but tiring.  Still there's nothing like a Pagan weekend to shed the trappings and stress of work.  Sold a few books, gave a little advice, bought some jewelry and wandered around in long flowing things.  And got some inspiration for the next mystery novel.

I was invited to share a cabin, which was good because I don't own a tent.  Now for those who've never been to a Pagan gathering, they are a little different than summer camp.  I went to bed about one and woke a little later to find one of my cabin mates taking off his shirt to climb into the next bunk.  A nicely built young man of twenty or so.  A pleasant surprise. 

Tomorrow I'm back to the stress of work.  Sigh.