Another Top 10 Predictions For 2018

After reading Lot’s Cave’s post on the Smashwords predictions for 2018, I knew I had to write my own. Last year, I decided to take a break from social media and a hectic writing schedule in favor of observing the market. After all, I’d done painstaking research in that area already. The natural progression turned into a different kind of market analysis. As an author, I’m not particularly fond of words like market analysis, profit margin, gross or net. You get the point. That’s why this post is desperately needed. This is market analysis for those that likewise aren’t too familiar with such terms. That’s okay, I’ll explain everything while discussing my own predictions for 2018.

To framework my thoughts and opinions, I’ve decided to read Smashwords original 2018 Book Industry Predictions post. Why am I doing it this way? Well, it’s actually a really important step in the process. Smashwords is a great site, and Mark Coker is generally really good at explaining things in the industry. But, when it came to this year’s predictions post, he really dropped the ball. There are too many aspects of this industry hidden behind ‘publisher speak’, this combined with his ‘business speak’, and well, you get my idea. All this really does make for a confusing predictions post, and so, here’s the first point for those looking for clarification.

My Top Ten Author Predictions For 2018

1. Indie Authors Did Not Assert Control & Won’t In 2018

For Mark Coker to say that indie authors took control of the publishing world is a gross misunderstanding of the industry. Hidden in Mark Coker’s statement is the idea that prior to indie authors the mainstream publishers were censoring content. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Mainstream publishers have always been competitive, and likewise, do gain an ever increasing platform of visibility. But, they certainly didn’t limit the industry’s content any more than we see it today. Authors could still publish, they could still seek out an audience, but it was much harder.

As a group, indie authors usually suffer a kind of limbo in today’s industry. Many authors don’t want to wait for the big name publishers to publish or accept their manuscripts, and so, they rush off to the nearest indie platform. The problem with this is what follows. An author publishes their somewhat lackluster book, and then, it doesn’t sell. The author gets discouraged and many times, never writes again. Why does this happen? Because the author got the instant gratification of seeing their unpolished book published. There was no trial by fire, and as a result, the author has no root to their craft. When hardships come, they tip over easily.

I’m not against indie authors, I identify largely with the label, but we need to admit our faults. Many mainstream publishers complain about crap flooding the market, and there is a reason for those complaints. Just because someone can publish doesn’t mean they should. For Mark Coker then, to say this sort of ‘all access pass’ to publishing is asserting control, is dishonest. If anything, indie authors have actually damaged the mainstream publishing half of the industry. There were not better deals for authors in mainstream publishing as a result of indie authors. Overall, the whole market needs an equilibrium it will probably never find. That is not, nor has it ever been, control asserted.

2. Kindle Unlimited Is A Lost Cause

Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited is a constant, and albeit reasonable, complaint of Mark Coker. No one is going to lie and say Kindle Unlimited is great for authors. However, we have to be honest about what it is. Kindle Unlimited, and its subsequent books are not a uniform group of ‘leeches to slowly drain other booksellers of their lifeblood.’ To say so, quite frankly, is a little dishonest. What Kindle Unlimited really is remains quite simple, Kindle Unlimited is the socialist system of eBooks. Yes, I mean that in the strongest possible way. Kindle Unlimited is the very definition of Socialism. Merriam-Webster defines Socialism as:

A stage of society in Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done.

In this particular version of Socialism, KENP (Page Reads) are the good to be sold. The unequal distribution lies in that wonderful KDP Select Global Fund. This is not even getting paid for the amount of work done, but rather, the work the ‘government’ thinks you perform by pages read. Yes, this really is a socialist system. For all of Mark Coker’s harsh comments on Kindle Unlimited and Amazon’s monopolistic practices, he’s never once gone so far as to call it like it is. But why hasn’t he? Well, I suspect it is because of the immense amount of pressure not to piss off Amazon, or its author base. Even Mark Coker must make a living competing with Amazon.

As with any socialist system though, it is important to realize Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited will grow worse for authors. Socialism leads to Communism, and yes, there is a difference between the two. The most simplistic definition of Communism is when the government distributes goods equitably, and by equitably, people usually mean by highest need first. Can you imagine this kind of system carried out within Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited? It doesn’t take much imagination. Amazon is already incentivizing certain markets and authors over others. Oh, and that pool of money, well it’s shrinking. What happens when that ‘easy’ money dries up? Kindle Unlimited is a lost cause for any indie author really wanting to support themselves by writing for a living.

3. Breaking Up Amazon Won’t Help — If It Even Happens

Perhaps my biggest complaint against Mark Coker lies in his solution to the problem. Breaking up Amazon won’t really solve the problem we see embodied in the indie author industry. Want proof? Look around at the other largely monopolistic company giants: Google, Facebook, Walmart, etc. There are too many big name big influence companies to list, and we all know their names whatever the niche market. It’s safe to say then, that the problem isn’t just the Romance market. The problem isn’t just Amazon. But where Mark Coker and I differ largely, I suspect, has to do with our politics. To say otherwise would be dishonest. We all have our particularly personal bias, and at least, I’m admitting mine in my blog post.

While Mark Coker advocates the dismantling of Amazon’s monopolistic status, he’s, at the same time, placing blame on Amazon. But, in an odd example, isn’t that kind of like blaming the car for driving over the speed limit? The car was, after all, made to drive 100MPH. Didn’t the car company put you in that position? This argument doesn’t make sense because it doesn’t account for personal responsibility. Amazon isn’t to blame for offering extremely low, often undercutting prices. The consumer is responsible for buying these products without care or concern. This is also true for those using Facebook, Google, and Walmart. There’s just something within the consumer that doesn’t think twice about that next good deal in the long term.

This is largely why breaking up Amazon won’t solve the indie market problem. Authors will still lower their prices to minuscule amounts in the interest of making that next sale. If it isn’t Amazon, it’ll be someone else. The personal responsibility of each and every author plays a huge role in this. That’s why I bother to write blog posts saying such harsh things. I find it a personal responsibility to warn people about undercutting other authors’ prices. Is it an unforgivable sin to utilize Amazon or even Kindle Unlimited? No, but it is a practice that needs to be embraced wisely. If authors charged more or likewise demanded compensation for their time, Amazon eventually have to listen. Mark Coker at least got one thing right on this topic, there’s always an author to take someone else’s place if they don’t play along.

4. This Will Be The Year Of Side Taking

If I’m right, and personal responsibility is important, then 2018 stands to be a year of side taking. What do I mean by that? Well, are you committing to Kindle Unlimited or not? For authors that choose not to, or are barred from, using Kindle Unlimited, the market stands to become a highly competitive marketplace. There will always be the temptation to be jealous of successful authors, but this could get much worse this year. For authors who refuse to play the Amazon game, for authors that turn away all that wonderful imaginary money, the mockery and pain will be an intense constant pain. This is something I’ve already learned and had to embrace in my own unique way.

You know what I love? Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead. Why is that relevant though? Well, it was my unique way of realizing the struggle of individuality. Writing Taboo Erotica can sometimes feel a bit too glamorous. Authors, myself included, like to think we’re on some sort of crusade for free speech. The problem is though, whether this is true or not, many authors criticize writing any content that doesn’t suit Amazon’s taste or content policy. The Fountainhead showed me why this is. Amazon authors, especially those looking to write for a living, have settled. They think we too should settle, and when we don’t, well it’s a personal conviction against them because they did.

The hatred is real, but many taboo writers don’t know this goes both ways. Amazon exclusive authors are jealous of us too, because we have the freedom of writing for the sake of writing. We have the audacity to charge ‘high’ prices, and our customers pay it. What neither of us, regardless of side, understand is this was all orchestrated to happen. When authors are busy undercutting each other and each other’s prices, well, mainstream publishers get to come up as the ‘hero problem solver’. Authors will flock to a symbol for their cause, and for authors wanting to make money, that symbol is Amazon. The side taking can only grow worse the more extreme tensions get. We need to stop taking sides and realize, we’re all indie authors looking to publish and make some money for our efforts. Why is that continually so complicated?

5. Authors Will Grow More Desperate… And Annoying

Why did I leave the Erotica Authors Reddit community seemingly overnight? Because authors are annoying, and will continue to get even more so. Okay, this isn’t true for every author, after all I’m an author. But, as a majority, the authors looking to eek out a profit at every opportunity are going to get worse. One of the things I did last year was subscribe to a couple author newsletters. Now, I read a wide variety of books and I did get to compare and contrast ‘erotica’ themes newsletters to other market’s newsletters. You know what? The difference is startling! My inbox was filled with erotica themed newsletters almost every single day. The other markets couldn’t compete even when combined. Does anyone see the problem here?

As the market grows more and more competitive, authors are going to get more and more desperate. What will happen to my inbox then? The problem isn’t just newsletters though, it’s a much broader problem. Authors are treating each other rather dishonestly, using them to find that ‘secret solution’ to their problems. Overall, this doesn’t help anyone feel like there is a much broader community of like-minded individuals. What’s worse though, is how it leads authors into settling and foregoing their personal responsibilities. Perhaps no one has thought this through to completion, because no one will be happy when everything is said and done. Readers won’t want newsletters, authors won’t talk to one another, and overall market prices will drop.

The important thing to note in all this is that authors have done this. I’m blaming authors, and I’m not being shy about it. All those people that settled, cut each others throats, and then lowered their prices when nothing else worked are a problem. Yes, scammers are a problem, but there are scammers in every industry. They are a small sliver of the overall representation readers see, or at least, should see. When the authors though start cutting corners, start charging lower and lower prices, and start abusing the trust of their reader base, well, who wouldn’t expect problems? These are all problems, and they’re annoying problems. Isn’t it time we just fixed it?

6. Authors Can’t Expand Into Other Markets

For authors looking to write for a living, pay attention to this one. You cannot expand into a different niche market. Anyone who says there is money to be made in cookbooks, science fiction, or historical fiction are lying to you. This sounds definite because it is. But how can I say it? Well, the logic behind this one is simple: romance is the trend setter. When publishers compare what is called the ‘market share’ of a particular niche, they’re discussing the amount of money a particular kink can earn you in comparison to others. Romance always captures the largest percentage of the market share. Simply put, Romance is the most profitable subject to write. Likewise, this incentivizes the most authors looking to write for a living. Simple enough.

What many authors fail to realize goes hand in hand with this is the fact that Romance is a trend setting niche. The trends that happen in the Romance world eventually trickle down throughout the rest of the market. This means the only reason Science Fiction or Historical Fiction remain lucrative is because the Romance trends haven’t ruined them yet. The minute Romance dries up, authors will move on to the next, which is probably Science Fiction by the way. Don’t buy into the idea that you can simply shift markets without any fallout. You’ll automatically make less money switching from Romance to Science Fiction, all else being equal. Not only that, but the longevity of your income source will dry up at the same time Romance dries up.

There are already whispers about the next market to jump into this year: audio books. What very few people are mentioning along with this is the fact Amazon may ruin the market before it even really began. Need proof? Check out Audible’s Romance Package. Does that scare anyone? It certainly should. Amazon through Audible and its new Romance Package subscription service stands to gain complete control over the Romance industry, and it doesn’t matter if it is hard copy, soft cover, or audio books now. What is clear however, is that audio books are not the next new trend everyone thinks they will be. In the long run, audio books will actually become yet another Kindle Unlimited, just another mechanism in the overall machine that is Amazon.

7. Single eBook Sales Are The Platform’s Fault

This may not seem like it impacts you as an author, but it does. When publishers talk about single copy eBook sales, they’re talking about a customer buying a lone book. Mark Coker correctly argues these type of sales will decrease, but for the wrong reason. He once again blames Kindle Unlimited, but is it ultimately Kindle Unlimited’s fault? I don’t think so. The blame once again belongs on authors, as authors have undercut prices and encouraged sites, like Smashwords, to run continuous sales. This is the sneaky little problem no one wants to talk about. Why does no one want to talk about it? Because it is a huge problem on platforms that exist outside Amazon.

How does a publisher compete with the giant that is Amazon? Well, many publishers have decided the solution is a site wide sale. This makes sense on the surface, as the sale seems to offset some of the bargains Amazon can afford to run continuously. Likewise, what customer doesn’t at least browse through the sale options? But, deep down, there is a cost to any sale ever put on by a website. Usually, websites put on sales when they want to incentivize the selling of a particular product. In other words, if a publisher ordered too many books, or perhaps wants to boost a book’s rankings, offer it at a discount. But, when sites don’t push a particular product, well, then they’re just begging for sales.

The begging that takes place during a sale always comes at a cost to the author. Don’t forget this. A sale requires a sale price, and that usually means a pay cut to an author. I’ve done this math multiple times. I know Smashwords doesn’t have the audience or customer base to pull the numbers to justify lowering a price. But to prove it, here’s an example. If I drop my $5.00 book price down to $2.50 for a Smashwords sale, Smashwords would need to sell roughly twice as many books to make it worth my while. You’re welcome to imagine this with new books (no incentive for customers to buy at sale price) or older books (your customer base probably already has the title and won’t buy enough to make up the sale difference), and see for yourself.

8. Platforms Will Become Less Significant

For authors, which platforms to publish to is an extremely important choice. Yes, this echoes the theme of taking side but it differs slightly in application. This year, I do see echoes of what others have said, the market is shrinking. Platforms are finding it harder and harder to compete against Amazon. Now, the positive side to this is that, for the most part, Taboo Erotica exists outside of Amazon. Readers obviously want the taboo content, their willing to pay good money for it, and they’re finding it on Lot’s Cave especially. But for sites like Smashwords and Excitica, there may come a time to decide if publishing taboo content along with their more mainstream content is the way to go. This is a delicate topic, and many authors don’t want to talk about it. But, if we’re honest, it’s extremely disconcerting. The platforms available to taboo content are shrinking rapidly.

But, in all fairness, it isn’t just taboo content. Sites like Apple, Scribd, and Kobo will all face a tough time against Amazon. Apple has one thing going with its iBooks, the prevalence of the .EPUB format. Many book lovers have found their favorite format, and it isn’t .MOBI (utilized by Amazon). For those not committed to one e-reader, the .EPUB format is a must (as it can be used across multiple platforms or devices). I know I’m not alone when I say I love using Apple products because of this very feature. But, I must also admit, I find it easier to install the Kindle App, and then just buy books right there and then. It’s tough to compete, even for Apple, with its embrace of authors and eBook lovers. Time will tell how well they weather the Amazon difficulties.

Sites like Kobo and Scribd though, I suspect, along with Mark Coker, that they will struggle, if not vanish completely. These sites have essentially killed off their customer base, or their ability to expand. Kobo in my mind has a name for not taking even borderline content. Scribd, if I even remember right, has a subscription service meant to still compete with that of Amazon. The business models are outdated, and one doesn’t have to be a genius to see that. How many authors have you heard selling well on Kobo? How about Scribd? Likewise, how many authors are having difficulties even uploading to platforms these days? Publishing platforms are going to find the decisions that didn’t matter before suddenly do, and by the time they realize it, my guess it will be too late.

9. Brand Recognition Will Start To Matter More

I know this sounds odd after all I’ve said, but I suspect this will become prevalent with time. As the market grows more competitive, big name recognition will become even more important. Readers are going to need a way to sort through the scams and crap books while still being able to get a good deal. How has this traditionally been handled in the past? Brand recognition. In some industries brand names have become synonymous with their product. Kleenex is the name of tissues, Coca-Cola is the name of soda, JELL-O is the name of gelatin. You get the point. These brands all became household names, whether we endorse how they did so or not. That is how the eBook industry will more than likely change this new year.

What’s important to realize is that brand recognition doesn’t have to come through a mainstream publisher. As an author, I utilize Lot’s Cave for this purpose. That’s why I now blog not on an author blog, but on the Lot’s Cave blog. I prefer to become recognizable through the Lot’s Cave brand. When people see the Lot’s Cave logo, they more than likely think ‘taboo incest erotica’. And, when that happens, I want them to think ‘Lily Weidner… father daughter incest’. This is what I have personally chosen to do, but I suspect more authors will eventually opt for a similar option. Romance authors for years flocked to the coveted title of ‘Harlequin Author’. Many Erotica authors used to covet the title of ‘Ellora’s Cave Author’, before the company went out of business.

Readers for their part used to buy books simply for the brand recognition. They took a chance on new authors because they trusted the brand. When an industry grows saturated, readers likewise look for those favored products. There’s a reason I smile when I see a Lot’s Cave book on the best seller list over at Smashwords, I know my title won’t be far behind. This is the secret success of taboo authors working together in large groups, everyone wins. Admittedly, it does take a bit of time to recognize this. I’ve been on both sides. There were times I grew jealous of others success, but I now look up to these authors. Authors that last for the long term understand this, and they embrace brands.

10. Writing What You Love Will Be Important

This is the note I wanted to wrap everything up with. I think writing what you love will be extremely important going into the new year. As industries become more and more competitive, having a motivation is extremely important. Personally, I can attest to this as an author. If you don’t follow my catalog, you may not know I predominately write short stories. This due to multiple factors, but one of them is that I simply enjoy writing shorter stories. Now, many people have told me not, as I won’t make enough money. But, those same people write three novels and then quit entirely. I don’t want to quit writing, so I might as well enjoy writing what I love. If you do want to make money, that’s fine, but maximize what you enjoy. That way, you’ll keep writing when it gets tough.

There are so many authors giving bad advice out to inexperienced authors. We all have to realize that everything is predicated on personal experience. The author giving advice, me included, have a personal experience that clouds judgement. A new author starting out probably doesn’t even know how to best articulate what they need advice on. Together, both have a responsibility to one another to bridge that gap. The best way I know how to do this though starts with determining what an author loves to write. So, I like writing raunchy more extreme father daughter incest titles, but it comes at a cost. I know my books probably will never appear on a best seller list in a mainstream paper. But, I’m also not looking for that kind of reward either.

No matter what the year brings, no matter how tough it gets, some authors simply feel the necessity of writing. I’m one of them, and I suspect many of the authors reading this do too. That’s what will keep the eBook industry thriving in some capacity. There are universally two main rules of writing, write a lot and read a lot. What many people fail to realize is that authors are also readers. How you, as an author, consume books, matters. How you, as a reader, write books, matters. Both of these concepts are two sides of the same coin. They are inseparable. Why though, do readers not have to be told to ‘read what you love’? Do you see the disconnect there yet? As an author, you need to write what you love. Do so, and this entire post, while relevant, won’t seem important to you later on down the road.

The Value of Amazon’s KDP Select for Taboo Authors

Lot’s Cave has always been dedicated to helping authors with various publishing strategies. Right now, the big question in the market seems to concern Amazon. Do you publish with Amazon? Is exclusivity worth it? Are there options for authors writing taboo content?  The questions can seem endless to an inexperienced or new author. Perhaps the main question though has always been is KDP Select/Kindle Unlimited worth it? Well, let’s take a constructive look at answering that question for you!

Writing A Great Description

Author: Samantha Zacharda
Marketing Director & Promotion
Published By: Lot’s Cave

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An Introduction To Descriptions 

At Lot’s Cave, we read eBook descriptions daily. When a writer submits their manuscripts, their description is often the first chance for an impression. While we’re the first to recognize it takes not only a great description, but a great title and cover to successfully sell an eBook, the description is often the first impression readers will have. On our blog, website, and social media promotions, what readers truly gravitate towards is the description. Knowing that readers’ choices are impacted by a good description, it’s important to write a great one. Writing a great description isn’t as easy as many authors would like however, and many writers struggle to make that first great impression. With that in mind, we’d like to share a few tips we’ve learned as a collective group of writers and publishers.

What Makes A Great Description?

Great descriptions entice the reader from the first word, and sell the book even before the last sentence. Think of a book’s description as a personal selling pitch for the book. A great description doesn’t just inform readers, it appeals to their curiosity and intrigues them. What truly sells a particular book is the description’s ability to push the reader into an action, ideally downloading a preview of the book or purchasing it outright. Composing a great description requires writers to take a step back, and look at their work critically. Summarizing an entire story into a short paragraph isn’t easy. WARNING: many authors unintentionally turn descriptions into a synopsis—and it’s tough to sell a book based on a synopsis. Book descriptions are critical; think of them as a never-ending self-promotion opportunity.

How Long Should An eBook Description Be?

Description lengths change depending on publishing company needs. Still, varying degrees of length are so minuscule one could almost dismiss the issue. Part of the problem stems from the fact that a great description is actually quite short. Authors grow accustomed to writing as often and as much as they wish, but readers don’t want a mini book description. Authors must realize the ideal description length runs about 400 characters including spaces—about 75 words. Since ideal descriptions only contain 75 words, authors must be extremely selective in what they say about their book. Personally, I find writing more, then editing down, most effectively accomplishes this goal. A great description remains short while enticing the reader into reading more… not less.

Which Approach Works Best For Erotica?

Writing descriptions for erotic eBooks is a little different than writing in other genres. A great erotic eBook description must be sexy, or at least sexually appealing. An author’s word choices convey varying degrees of sensuality. The key to selling books can be found in appealing to a reader’s sexual interest. In any genre there are always key phrases or words. Using these words in a way that highlights their appeal provides an easy transition for readers, making a great description. Most publishing companies like to see a stated category, subcategory, or search terms for a manuscript. Including these items in descriptions not only sell readers and communicate an author’s market awareness; they also help Internet search engines place your book at the top of search results. Yet, it goes unnoticed how romance readers judge desirability in Erotica not only by a captivating description, but also by the subcategories described.

What Should Great Descriptions Include?

Now knowing what goes into making a great description, it’s important to know the basic content. A great description establishes all a reader needs to know about the story’s plot. The main characters and the setting should usually be established no later than the second sentence. With that established, all else is based on the initial starting sentences. The description should contain a hook that grabs readers into the plot, while not giving away the story. Done correctly, revealing plot details results in initiating a feeling of momentum building up throughout the description. This momentum entices readers provided the content is presented successfully. Erotic descriptions should also feel sensual, or capture the story’s desired romantic appeal. Nothing decreases a reader’s interest more than good descriptions failing to capture the essence of their favorite genre.

How Do Descriptions Appeal To Readers?

For Erotica, the best way to capture a reader is through sexual appeal. Notice, Sirs, this is not the same thing as sexual content—or even sex in general. Even most male readers relate to the experience and emotions behind the initial sexual attraction. A great description captures what the author already knows, the reason behind the book’s story. If a reader can relate to the story before even reading a word of it, they’ll be more likely to buy it. Enticing a reader’s curiosity is always a good method as well. People are curious, especially when it comes to what drives sexual attraction, so why not use this advantage? A great description appeals to the reader in many forms, not just one—can you include a second hook?

Can We Dissect A Description?

Let’s look at a real book description so we can obtain a better understanding of how this process works. The Lot’s Cave novel titled ‘Forbidden Promise’ contains an interesting Uncle-Niece erotic incest story. While this example may not be an ideal description, it highlights all the desired information. Uncle-Niece incest is not a very popular genre for new authors to break into, yet this book sells well. One can only conclude this is because the description truly sells the book. Feel free to find this as an example to work from for your own template. In no way is this meant as the ‘end all-be all’ of solutions. The following description just happens to be the one most readily available for use:

“Rose has a problem. Since catching her father having sex, she can’t keep from wanting him. Dad is clueless about his daughter’s desire. His kinky love life has always been kept behind closed doors. When Dad’s brother comes to stay for the summer, her Uncle isn’t the only one who can satisfy her desire. A night of kinky sex with Uncle may just be enough for Dad to examine his thoughts on incest.”

Forbidden Promise – by Lily Weidner

First Sentence

“Rose has a problem.”

The main character is established in this very short first sentence. However it fails to capture the reader’s curiosity right from the start. It’s not erotic even though it establishes the main character’s name and highlights an echo of the story’s plot. All the reader knows is that the character has a problem. The first sentence drives the reader to keep reading in order to figure out the main character’s complicating issue.

Drawing In The Reader

“Since catching her father having sex, she can’t keep from wanting him. Dad is clueless about his daughter’s desire. His kinky love life has always been kept behind closed doors.”

These three sentences propel the reader’s interest forward. Expanding on the first sentence, we begin learning more of the main character’s predicament. With the introduction of another character, we also start to see the sexual appeal of the story. Words like kinky, desire, sex, wanting, and closed doors, all initiate feelings of sexual curiosity or interest for the reader. At the same time, the words used will appeal to many different interests within the same market.

Setting

“When Dad’s brother comes to stay for the summer, her Uncle isn’t the only one who can satisfy her desire.”

This story’s particular setting isn’t obviously stated. The reader only knows it’s summertime, and the story most likely takes place in the family home. Again, the reader is driven forward by using enticing words. The introduction of another character can attract more readers with a change in the story’s appeal. Here, the reader starts to truly grasp the nature of the story. Notice however, detailing the main plot and setting takes only one sentence.

Closing Sentence

“A night of kinky sex with Uncle may just be enough for Dad to examine his thoughts on incest.”

Another hook in the last sentence captures the reader’s interest. The second hook builds on the reader’s interest and this prompts an outright purchase of the book. With the last sentence, we notice the conclusion to an even broader marketing process. What the description really does is propel the reader into an outright purchase of the book in order to discover the details. As a whole, the description accomplishes its desired goal, all in the span of 73 words.

How Can You Begin Writing Your Description?

The best way to start writing a description begins with the first thought coming to mind. Too many writers hesitate, causing them to lose their initial ideas. Remember, descriptions aren’t final until they’re sent out, and can always be edited down later. If a writer’s block-like difficulty occurs, simply begin making a list. Consider who the main characters are and determine a few keywords to draw in readers. Take a look at your initial keywords, and build hooks around them. If a writer’s block still occurs, read plenty of book descriptions for ideas, or even see new ways to format sentences into enticing hooks. If you’re unsure of where to start, remember, it’s okay to be a little lost or confused just start trying.

Already Have A Manuscript To Submit?

Lot’s Cave is dedicated to publishing material that most publishers would find too controversial. If you have a finished manuscript, we’d love to receive your submission. We have an easy five step submissions process! For us to receive your manuscript submit your story directly at our website here. Not quite ready yet to publish your manuscript, but have a few questions? No problem. Authors can always find more information directly at our website, or on our Writers Wanted page. Having problems or need clarification regarding our online manuscript uploader? Please feel free to contact Lot’s Cave directly with your questions here.

The Challenge of Erotic Writing

“The stigma to writing Erotica may seem easy to avoid. Truthfully, some people can…but many cannot.”

There are challenges every writer will face, no matter what genre they write for. At times, these challenges can be rather obvious, other times, the challenges have to be experienced firsthand. Writing Erotica will always be one of those genres that have a few challenges. While these challenges will be different depending on the writer, we can all at least relate to a few. Before going into detail about the difficulties, it’s important to remember that difficulties are just challenges. If there weren’t these challenges, then many of us wouldn’t feel as accomplished as we do. These challenges should in no way hinder or turn away potential authors. The purpose of listing these difficulties is to make them more manageable, and hopefully spark a better experience in the long-term for Erotica authors.

One of the major challenges facing Erotica authors is the stigma attached. This single challenge is actually the cause of many other initial drawbacks. At first, the stigma to writing Erotica may seem easy to avoid. Truthfully, some people can avoid this negative stigma, but many cannot. Authors have a difficult time promoting their new book, discussing their writing with friends, and celebrating personal achievements. Nothing can be more difficult for an author, than facing the reality of being published yet able to tell no one. In general, if it wasn’t for this stigma, there’d be an innumerable amount of authors discussing their latest book. Most of these drawbacks are personal, but the social stigma can have a greater impact on an author than most would admit. At times, authors can feel as if their writing is somehow less valid as, “it only gets people off.”

Another major challenge authors face is a saturated market. Erotica is a very popular market suddenly, and while an abundance of books is good for readers, it may not be so good for authors. Keeping material fresh, relevant, and exciting, all while staying unique is a tough demand. Ensuring that a particular book is ‘good’ simply doesn’t make it in the market any longer. Books have to be well put together as a whole, which means a good story, description, excerpt, cover, and title. Readers look for a combination of all factors, rarely settling on one or two. Because of this, the authors that do become successful know the market they’re in, and what they’re writing. Readers get better material, and authors often find their skills increasing. This challenge really is reflected on the time it takes to be reassured of a book’s success.

Perhaps the single most important challenge is the lack of feedback. Erotica is not commonly shared or discussed among readers. Many people are hesitant to share their new favorite erotic book with friends, much less family. Because of this, authors can feel extremely disappointed. Many writers have friends that are also writers, often enough in different genres. This means that many Erotica writers see other authors gaining reviews and feedback from readers. As an author, we all like to hear this feedback, and we worry when we don’t get it. Wanting to improve our writing, to know our readers enjoy our stories, and what readers would like in the future, all requires reviews and feedback. To be a successful author, and still not receive reviews, is a tough concept to accept.

Writing Erotica has its difficulties, but authors enjoy these challenges. Many times, we can take a step back, and embrace the challenge as an inspirational piece of motivation. The common assumption is that writing Erotica isn’t for everyone, and there is some truth to that. However, I believe more authors, knowing these challenges, can be more likely to succeed. Some of the challenges, while not applying to everyone, are seen as part of the genre. These challenges make writers into successful authors. While Erotica has gained popularity, authors seen an increase, and books being in high demand, many writers are new to these challenges.

Lot’s Cave is proud of our authors for overcoming those challenges, and we’re always eager to see others doing the same. For our authors, writing about such sensitive and taboo topics, difficulties are not a strange occurrence. Despite the lack of reviews, feedback, reader recommendation, and censorship, our authors truly make a name for themselves. Overcoming these challenges, our authors have really excelled in their skills as a writer. As a whole, our authors have a better grasp of the difficulties, and are eager to help new and upcoming writers. Continuing to face these challenges, despite the unrelenting difficulties each new book faces, our authors really do make us proud. Here at Lot’s Cave, we couldn’t be happier!

The Dynamics of Father – Daughter Incest

The dynamics of any given relationship is by far one of the most difficult things to piece together. When incestuous relationships are involved however, that dynamic may seem even more difficult to place. Examining one of the most popular incestuous relationships, we can begin to see how these dynamics still work day to day. Father – Daughter incest is seen as one of the most controversial. The relationship is one that would cause most people to voice opinions they’d otherwise neglect voicing. At the core of the relationship, is the familiar echoes of parent – adult child dynamics which can complicate matters even further. As uncommon as it may seem, father – daughter incest is actually quite common, if not sought out especially. Taking that into account, it only seems necessary to explore the dynamics of such a taboo relationship.

Hotter Than Hell

Many people who look at the relationship between any man and woman, are quick to discover that they crave different things out of their relationship. At the core of the relationship is the dynamic of what each person most craves from the other. That one dynamic is critical, as without it, the entire relationship would fall apart. For men, the most essential item in any relationship is respect. This means that above all else a man wishes his opinions to be heard, his loving affection returned, and above all else, his solutions to situations applied. When it comes to a woman, these are not the same sought after items. For a woman, the thing she craves most out of a relationship is value. To a woman, nothing matters more than knowing her partner finds her irreplaceable, useful, and altogether needed.

A Twisted Web of Lust

Looking at the relationship between a man and woman in general, can help when looking at that of a father and daughter. At the core of the relationship, is still a man and woman, trying to navigate more than just a sexual relationship. What differs then, is actually the core dynamic that many fail to realize. What is it that makes what a daughter feels for her father and vice versa so different than that of an average relationship? The answer may be one so simple, that it is actually quite surprising. For many, a daughter is taught the one thing that a man, especially her father, craves above everything else. A daughter is taught right from the start to respect and listen to her father. Whether she likes the situation or not, whether she believes the advice or not, a daughter will often find for herself that her father knows far better.

 

Kidnapped by Daddy

In return, a daughter, at the same time, is naturally valued highly by her father, and he often says so outright. The relationship right from the beginning, is one in which both people have their needs met. Not only are their needs met, but it is met in the most desirable way. Whether there is a sexual attraction or not, out of that mutually respected and valued dynamic, can often come a far more intimate relationship. Given the odds of such relationships occurring, it stands to reason that a sexual relationship might develop given enough time. In fact, the time for such a sexual attraction to develop could be far shorter than some would like to believe. What happens between a father and daughter at the very core of the relationship is a deep understanding of each other’s basic needs.

Family Reunion

The dynamics in any relationship are tough to navigate, let alone understand. When it comes to incestuous relationships however, that dynamic can be even more complicated. Examining these dynamics is a critical part of understanding the cultural taboo associated with incest. Authors repeatedly examine these hard to place dynamics, often telling stories that readers not only enjoy, but find fascinating. Whether one examines incestuous relationships or not however, at times, the lessons learned are just as valuable elsewhere. Understanding what men and women both crave out of a relationship is critical, especially if we want to better understand incestuous relationships as well. In the end, we might find that incestuous relationships aren’t as taboo as we once suspected.

The Biblical Case for Incest

Examining the biblical cases of incest is not an easy task. For years, Christians have dealt with the conflicting standard of incest within their religious history. Today, incest is seen as a necessary evil, something that was done, only until it was no longer relevant. There seems to be a divide between Old Testament allowance of incest, and the new standard implied today within the New Testament. Still, when it comes to the importance of biblical stories, incest is always at the forefront. If one were to take away the inclusion of incestuous stories within the bible, the foundation of the faith would dissipate. In fact, the founder of the three Abrahamic Religions, was involved in an incestuous relationship, as were many surrounding family members. Interestingly enough, this means that the world’s three most influential religions all involved a standard of incestuous behavior at its foundation.

Abraham’s incestuous relationship with his sister, Sara, is actually an intricate part of the biblical story. For many faiths, Abraham is seen as the founder of the Jewish people. To put it bluntly, the people chosen by God above all others, has a blatant history of incestuous behavior. Abraham and Sara, Lot and his daughters, Nachor and Melcha, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Rachel are all incestuous relationships. Interestingly enough, when God is asked to identify himself to Moses, God identifies himself through such incestuous relationships. The Old Testament God would have been known as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, especially in the time of Moses. To cement matters further, Moses, the deliverer and precursor to the symbolism of Christ’s relationship to his people,  is also a product of incest himself.

Arguing against incest, especially from a religious vantage point, almost seems impossible. Many Christians like to discount the cases of Old Testament incest, arguing that it was a necessity. When it comes to the New Testament though, a standard for incest is actually quite lacking. The way the New Testament is written, there isn’t a similar standard of law like there is within the Old Testament. As such, the debate between different Christian groups in regards to many matters continues. While one could hope for a solid line in the sand to appear, it’s just not going to. When a moral standard depends on ones own personal interpretations, things get a little hazy to say the least. The one standard that people can all agree on for the New Testament however, is Jesus Christ himself.

If one takes any short amount of time to trace the biblical genealogy of Christ, one will find a history of incest. At the very least, one has to wonder why the savior of us all, is the product of incest. There isn’t just one incestuous occurrence in the family line, but many. Anyone would find the chances of arguing for incestuous relationships with the bible are actually quite good odds. Jesus is said to be the product of incest, God’s chosen people are the product of incest, and the founder of the faith was at the very least, involved in an incestuous relationship. Everything about the Christian faith focuses on this same standard, as the New Testament is consistently linked with the Old. There simply isn’t a way around the incestuous relationships, or the inclusion of such a high biblical standard for such permissible relationships.

When it comes to the biblical case for incest, there are many different avenues one can choose. Christians as a whole, have a difficult time with the biblical cases of incest within their holy book. As society as a whole chooses to examine the depths of our sexual morals, the religious standards can’t help but be brought up. Taking a step back, we can start to examine where our ethical values started. If they happened to start with a nomadic tribe that practiced incest, we may need to take that into our consideration. While we may not often like to think of Christ as the product of incest, we cannot argue the fact isn’t true. The implications of such a fact though, are often up to the individual.

Highlighting Taboo Erotica

Over the years, erotica has become a growing industry. Publishers can afford to publish only erotica eBooks, drawing an author base easier than before. With such a presence growing within the industry, many authors have found certain topics taboo. The boundaries within erotica have become increasingly shortened, leaving many wondering what happened. Taking a brief step back, consumers can see the gaps within the growing market. Missing in the erotica market are some surprising categories many readers would never be opposed to buying. Examining at quick glance these left out categories, we can better understand the need for such materials. Whether publishing companies decide to include such topics remains up to them, however, no publishing company should be censored to not include a topic they wish simply because it’s taboo. In fact, many of the categories would be quickly accepted, were it not for such extreme efforts of censorship.

Barely Legal is a category that given the society we live in, is surprisingly unrepresented in erotic eBooks. Taking an honest look, this really shouldn’t have to be a category. Authors are find it increasingly more difficult to involve younger adult characters, especially involving relationships to older partners. This is a relatively new distinction, one that was never expressly forbidden, but actually quite accepted within publisher guidelines. The reason for the censorship regarding this topic often leaves authors frustrated. Many authors are more than eager to stick strictly within company guidelines, especially within legal parameters, but yet this legally permissible topic has become an erotic eBook taboo. For those curious about this erotica topic, or just want to see what books of this nature include, check out the following books.

       

Incest erotica is a category that has recently taken off, and become increasingly popular. Unlike pseudo-incest stories, the incest category focuses on consented sexual acts committed by biological family members. The censorship regarding the topic of incest could never be greater, with almost every publishing company forbidding it outright. Manuscripts that so much as mention incest are instantly rejected. What’s so confusing, is the market for incest erotica could never be greater. Many cultures have even come to accept incest, leaving it outside the taboo category. For the United States however, incest continues to be taboo and extremely censored by publishing companies. If you’re looking for some incest erotica, try the following titles published by Lot’s Cave. .

        

BDSM is a massive category covering a wide range of subjects. Over the years, this topic has grown in popularity. What’s surprising is how different aspects of BDSM are getting censored. While the category could never be stronger, or more relevant, the scope is slowly being narrowed. Topics like mind control, reluctance, and sadism/masochism still carry a taboo stigma. While readers are consuming these eBooks at an ever increasing rate, the market is seeing a stand still. The stand still is not due to a lack of authors, but merely censorship of publishers. If you’d like to explore the many different scopes of BDSM check out the following titles.

         

Questioning the Ethics of Incest

When it comes to the topic of incest erotica, nothing could be more forefront than parent-child relationships. There’s no relationship more debated or controversial than that of parent-child. In the public perception of incest, parent-adult child relationships bring only negative connotations. Often, such relationships are perceived as abusive, and many picture younger children forced into sexual acts. In erotica however, only consented parent-adult child incest is allowed and published. So why then, is the relationship so controversial? Parent-adult child incest should be a topic that is debated freely, expressed freely, and certainly published without negative consequences. Something about such an incestuous relationship however, often leaves only consequences and a cautious approach.

The main objection to any parent-adult child relationship, biological or not, is an abuse of position. A parent is supposed to do what is best for the well-being of their child. In most situations, a sexual relationship is seen as contrary to that standard of well-being. Taking a closer look however, the situation isn’t always as clear as society would like. In most cultures and societies, the age of consent, particularly with this kind of age difference, is around eighteen. Conveniently, eighteen is also the age where a child becomes a legal adult. Many children leave for college, live on their own, and start pursuing a more serious avenue for their future. To what degree then, does the responsibility of the parent to their child change and should there be the same standards regarding sexual relationships?

Looking at the standards applied to a non-biological parent, while often not advised, a sexual relationship is allowed to take place upon the child turning eighteen. Society is often quick to shake their heads in disapproval of the relationship, but it is still legally permissible. The relationship of biological parent to their biological child is under the same standard of societal rules. If the only issue with parent-adult child incest is the sex itself, then one has to wonder, what is expressly so wrong? Just because a sexual act is a cultural taboo, does not mean it should be legally impermissible. When it comes to parent-adult child incest however, that’s exactly what we find. There is a different standard placed on incestuous relationships, simply because of the cultural sensitivity to incest.

Incest erotica tries to often examine this different standard, even in the smallest of ways. Erotic eBooks try to make the reader think, and challenge common perceptions or ideas. Out of all the incestuous relationships, parent-adult child incest sells far better. What part of readers wants to examine this cultural taboo? Perhaps there is the acknowledgement that something within society doesn’t quite make sense. A story that allows societal norms to be challenged can only make such a society better long-term. Erotica not only examines the parent-adult child incest, but it examines the relationship itself. Authors often try to capture what for some people, is a mental struggle of sexual desires and ethical behavior.

While parent-adult child incest may not be approved of, that isn’t the end of discussion. Examining the cultural taboos, whether in writing or in conversations, can only add value to the situation. The bonds between a parent and child are often absolute, yet extremely complicated. Once a child becomes an adult, feelings of intimacy and love don’t simply cease to exist. Examining the responsibility a parent has to their child’s well-being will always be a critical part of better understanding incestuous relationships. Until society starts to open up though, the most common place to gain a better understanding will be incest erotica. This is why authors need to have a place to publish their work, and publishers need more awareness of the many censorship issues for such business topics. in the end, we have to do a better job of starting such discussions.

Genetic Sexual Attraction: The New Oedipus Complex

Many times, there are words to describe the more commonly known taboo subjects. Psychology has long sought to label our most intimate of sexual attractions, no matter how controversial those labels may become. Take for example the Oedipus Complex, a term so defined that it has found its way into everyday speech. While many would shy from conversations which discuss the sexual attraction of a child for their parent, such attractions do happen and are necessary to discuss. If the forbidden act of incest was so far-fetched, so uncommon, it would more than likely never need discussing. The fact we keep coming back to this taboo topic, proves that there’s more to it than just sexual desire. Whatever that “more” factor may be, psychologists are starting to seek it out, if only to better understand.

Genetic Sexual Attraction (GSA)  has become the new Oedipus Complex, though many don’t even know such a concept exists. The key to GSA has become a separation point between biological relatives, who later, find each other. At its most basic level, GSA tries to label the sexual attraction biological relatives feel when they reunite. What’s startling, is given this separated situation, relatives have a 50 percent chance of feeling such strong attractions. When individuals have GSA like feelings, there’s the startling label of them being stronger than normal sexual attraction. Because of this growing understanding, people are finally starting to discuss at length, their personal situations.

What makes GSA so relevant is the growing break up of so many families today. No one, as of yet, has examined the degree of separation necessary for GSA to happen. Consider a situation where a child sees their parent once a month, for only a day’s time, would such sexual attractions build up? Increase or decrease the time spans at will, because no psychologist has examined it. In today’s society, there are numerous children in various degrees of separation from their parents. One would be blind not to come to the same conclusions. Worse yet, examine the number of children that only meet their parent, later in life, after establishing themselves as their own unique individual. This is the growing reality within the society we live in, and it’s only becoming a more pressing matter.

Examining the statistics of this phenomenon, let’s use a few examples. If we take a sample of the population, say an average 100 couples, we can get a clear understanding of the odds involved. With divorce rates now above 50 percent, we can assume at least 50 of our couples will divorce. If each couple averages two children per family, then the likelihood of an incestuous attraction existing in that family exceeds 100 percent with 50+ children experiencing Genetic Sexual Attraction. Thus in any given family, the rate of GSA caused attraction exceeds 50 percent. Out of any given 100 couples, at least 50 children will be inclined to commit an incestuous act. It may seem like an extreme number, but if our calculation is correct, the odds of the incest taboo being broken become so high then shouldn’t incest be considered normal?

With such high odds, it makes the need for taboo erotica ever more necessary. If individuals can find a place to explore the dynamics of such relationships, can see the potential reactions and better understand themselves, why would anyone forbid that? Taboo desires are expressly that, forbidden, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a curiosity, a thought, or even a need to feel just a bit sexy for having those desires. Erotica does that for its readers, and it allows the sharing of ideas. Taboo based books allow a bridge to build discussion in families, and promote a better more open communication and relationship.

The Need for Controversial Erotica

Writing has always been a means of addressing the most sensitive of society’s controversies. The ability of authors to challenge their readers, to voice their personal experience, is an invaluable part of forwarding ideas. Publishing today is not ruled by the same restrictions it once was. Author’s can self promote, eBooks have become a stable product, and the consumption of material is now international. With the expansion of the eBook market, came the growing need for erotic stories. Now, publishing erotica became a good business decision, and companies could afford to narrow what they published. Authors seemed to respond to this growing need as well, writing all kinds of stories for the growing market.

With the growing market though, came a greater exploration of subject matter. While many publishers accepted erotica, they also shied away from taboo subjects. At times, censorship happens subtly, but in either case, the censorship still happens. When publishers decided not to touch the sensitive taboo material authors readily threw in their faces with eager enthusiasm, many authors walked away feeling confused and disheartened. Authors that had taken time to produce great stories, were suddenly left with nowhere to sell them. At times, these authors were well aware of the sensitivity involved, and wrote the story just for that reason. Whatever their reasons were though, publishing companies simply wouldn’t taboo eBooks.

Taboo subjects have always been in the backs of people’s minds. That’s what makes this intentional or unintentional censorship even worse. Many erotica writers have differing opinions when it comes to taboo subjects. The divide is apparent on any author forum, or even publishing website. How is it that an author can feel so strongly regarding a topic that they wish for censorship? These strong inner pulls of emotional reaction is exactly why there’s a need for taboo erotica. In fact, publishers that produce such controversial material find only an increase in their sales. So if the consumer wants taboo eBooks, authors want to write taboo stories, why is there then such a sensitivity?

The sensitivity to taboo material is simple, publishers fear that there will be serious business ramifications for publishing such material. That fact alone, should be more than enough reason to publish such material. The market for it is there, and no one argues that. Author’s are becoming increasingly aware of the growing market, but publishing companies just aren’t there. That’s what makes the need for taboo oriented publishers so great. Those publishers that do publish such material stand out, and grow quite a presence. Any time someone can break through a censorship barrier, society is made better for it. This is true with the sensitive topic of taboo erotica as well.