Vicky Dreiling: The Glamorous Life of an Author

The day I sold my first book (June 19, 2009) I knew my life would change, but for that shining moment, all I cared about was celebrating with my writing friends. I didn’t think too much beyond savoring my accomplishment, but despite knowing many published authors, I still had visions that my life would somehow become … glamorous. My first indication that the writer’s life might not be all glam occurred with the dreaded Professional Author Photo. I distinctly recall asking the photographer if he could work miracles with Photoshop. Notably, my Professional Author Photo looks ….like me.

So much for glamming up.

My second indication that the writer’s life might not be nearly as glamorous as I’d hoped occurred when I got my first revision letter. It was almost as long as the book. OK, I am exaggerating, but I gulped multiple times as I read that letter.

My third indication that the writer’s life might not be nearly as glamorous as I’d envisioned occurred in the frantic middle of revising my first book. One late evening, I paused for air and realized I’d never gotten out of my pajamas.

My fourth indication that writing might not be glamorous occurred while brushing my teeth one morning. I looked in the mirror and thought, OMG, my hair made me look like … Medusa.

My fifth indication that writing might be just a little glamorous occurred when I finished the final round of revisions on my first book. I got a bit teary eyed as I realized that my editor’s brilliant insights had helped me transform that debut novel.

After sending off that final version of my first book, I knew the actual writing wasn’t even remotely glamorous, but the day I received my first Advance Reader Copies of HOW TO MARRY A DUKE, I was thrilled and took multiple photos.

Four years after selling my first book, I find there is no glamor involved in the creation part of a book, but there is something far more special. My thanks to all of the readers who email, tweet or send Facebook messages letting me know they enjoyed one of my books. I assure you, that part is just a tiny bit glamorous.

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Vicky Dreiling is a Triple RITA finalist, confirmed historical romance junkie, and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the UK allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle. That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her “Trouble.” Her upcoming release WHAT A WICKED EARL WANTS publishes May 28, 2013.
Visit her at: http://www.vickydreiling.com/
Blog: http://www.vickydreiling.com/blog/

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