I've done extensive market research

[seriousfic]

And determined that the difference between paranormal romance and urban fantasy is that paranormal romance has a picture of a shirtless man on the cover, while urban fantasy has a picture of a slinky brunette.

This is a roundabout way of saying I've written a romantic novella (Erotic Novella sounds like a Metal Gear Solid character, plus there isn't much sex) and am looking to publish it, in my quest to have the most hipster-y shameless secret ever. It would look a lot better on my cover letters than "I cannot tell you about my publishing history due to the rules of the witness relocation program, but my prior works were all well-received."

I've polished it within an inch of its life, and now I'd love if I could get a pair of fresh eyes on it, especially someone who's a fan of the genre and could tell me how it stacks up. ("Well, it was okay, but it was no The Greek Shipping Heir's Faithless Nanny.") It's only about thirty thousand words, so it shouldn't take too long, and how many times do you get to say, as part of the betaing process, "You're going to need more sex scenes. America wants more sex"?

ETA: At the very least, I'm sure I can come up with better cover art for an eBook than "CGI of shirtless men." I know people who know people that can draw, and they'd probably be very grateful for a commission that doesn't involve micropenis.

Comments

[oonaseckar.livejournal.com]

I expect you already have this covered, but if not will throw my name in the hat. I guess I owe you! My credentials:

i) no experience
ii) no tools of critical analysis – all opinions on a strictly idunnowhyi’mjustnotfeelingit basis.
iii) Minimal English language competence. Can spell however. May have trouble with other words.
iv) Liable to face-scratching/head-banging if disagreed with on any issue.

I’ve fulfilled job descriptions worse before and got the job done.

[seriousfic.livejournal.com]

You're hired!