Oh absolutely!

Precisely! I won't wax lyrical about the pros and cons of social media but I really do think the like/heart buttons did something to our psyche. 🤣

OMG you too?? And you're right, it IS the sexiest editing. 🤣

[2/2] I think folks have become more passive in their engagement, generally. I've also noticed it's hard to get traction outside of other indies who're in the same boat, so we're all kinda just talking to each other without necessarily finding non-writer readers, no matter what bevy of tags we use.

[1/2] I'm relatively new here and my book isn't out yet, BUT: I started a few platforms at the same time, including Bluesky, and I've noticed across the board it's been difficult to get engagement compared to say ten years ago, even on platforms where you already have an audience.

While the whole thing isn't out until March, you can read the Prologue and Chapter 1 in the meantime for the humble price of signing up for my newsletter at www.tamarasharker.com! ❤️

I agree, I think it's something to do with being (temporarily) free of expectations! It's like no one is constantly looking over your shoulder, or you no longer feel guilty about how you're using your time/brainpower.

I love that so much!

Oh I love your library! Does that right-hand shelf curve or am I seeing things?

Yes! I feel like every time I get settled into a new community where I believe them to be, the winds shift! It feels difficult to build a presence in such fickle places. <3

Bonus question: Aside from the obvious "I need a sequel!", the events were mostly inspired by a need to explore "the other side" -- my antagonists -- and, not to get spoiler-y for Book 1, the origins of a certain creation myth.

Any excuse to do more fantasy worldbuilding. ;)