IWSG October 2022

Time for another posting of the Insecure Writer's Support Group! Hosted as ever by Alex J. Cavanaugh, the aim of the group is to offer a safe space where writers can share doubts and insecurities without fear of being judged. Today's co-hosts are Tonja Drecker, Victoria Marie Lees, Mary Aalgaard, and Sandra Cox! 

The question for the October post is: What do you consider the best characteristics of your favorite genre?

This is a great question! If by "favourite genre", the question means my preferred genre to write, every writer should have an excellent answer because there will be certain elements that draw them to that genre and keep them coming back for more. In my case, I'm attracted to speculative fiction because it gives me the scope to think about things that are unseen and give full rein to my imagination. In my case I like to think about what may be ahead of us so there's a strong sci-fi element. Sometimes these concepts can be alarming but it's all viewed through the eyes of sympathetic, relatable characters. So, perhaps it's a warning, but it's a friendly one. And the good thing about spec fic is you can take a big, bold concept and really get your teeth into it.

Can't wait to read others' answers to this question. To find them, head here!

In other news, I recently wrapped up a first draft of my next book, which I'm excited about. This deals with another big concept as mentioned above. I'm really looking forward to sharing more details about this one.

Thanks to all those who participated in the blog tour for Reckoning and commented on and shared the posts. I had a lot of fun!

Finally, as things continue to ramp up for the release of my trad pub debut, The Becalmer, in August of next year, I'm still looking for three or four people to make up a street team. All you have to do is be willing to receive a few emails from my publisher and to help spread the word about my book in various channels. It'll be a great time! Team members also have access to exclusive treats and goodies. Here's a working blurb:

Gifted with the ability to defuse conflicts with her mind, Harica is headhunted to resolve a war via an arranged marriage, unaware that the reluctant would-be bride—the entitled Princess Jasmila—has similar powers. But the princess doesn't use them for good, and she fights back, sending Harica into a coma through which she finds a mysterious liminal space populated by others who share her gift, both living and dead. She learns to do things she never thought possible, but when things get out of control, she almost swears off her gift forever—until events dictate that she must come to terms with the dark side of her gift and take ownership of it.

If you're interested, comment below or shoot me an email at mcwilfo (at) gmail (dot) com. Thanks much!