6 months ago today, I published Sweet Addiction.
I never imagined I could do this. When I finished writing it one year ago, I didn’t think much of it. It sat on my computer for weeks, and I kept opening up the document and reading parts of it. I enjoyed the story, but I never thought anyone else would. Never. I didn’t even know you could self publish on Amazon and the other platforms. I had no idea about any of that, but I had this story that made me laugh, and I kept wondering if it would make someone else laugh.
I took a long shot, and emailed one of my favorite Indie Authors, R.J. Lewis, hoping to ask her some questions about the process. I didn’t think I would hear back from her. I figured she was busy writing something amazing. Actually, I was HOPING she was writing Remy’s story, because I’M DYING FOR IT. <3
She emailed me back, and I nearly fell over. That alone was unbelievable. The fact that she wrote me several paragraphs was even more unbelievable. I fangirled BIG TIME. I had mentioned to her in my email that I wrote a story, but I wasn’t sure about it. I said my humor was somewhat in-your-face, and I really didn’t think anyone else would be into that. I had asked her if she wanted to read it, expecting her to tell me she was really busy, which I would have understood. I NEVER expected her to want to read it, but she told me to send it over, and again, I fangirled.
R.J. mothereffin Lewis is going to read my stuff? Are you kidding me?!?!
I was insanely nervous. She was the first person to read Sweet Addiction, which was untitled at the time. I had never written a novel before. This was it, and if she told me it really needed work, or that she wasn’t able to connect with the characters, I would’ve probably agreed, because what the hell did I know? A couple days went by, and she emailed me, saying how much she was enjoying it. I think I re-read that email twenty times before I wrote back. She finished it in a little over a week, and her email after that changed everything.
8 people took a chance on me, and purchased Sweet Addiction the first three days it was live. I cried, big time. I was so grateful for those 8 people. I wanted to find them and hug them. A few blogs posted my purchase link, and even had an interest in reading it. I cried some more.
There was a lot of crying going on.
I cried when I read my first review, I cried when I was sent a message from a reader, saying how much she loved JoJo, I cried when Belle Aurora shared my book with her readers…WHATTT?!?!! Yeah, cried. I couldn’t believe people were actually enjoying my writing style, and my group of characters.
I batted around the idea of continuing Dylan & Reese’s story. I wanted more of them, so I wrote a few chapters, but then, something happened. Or someone happened, I should say.
Benjamin Kelly happened.
Where I Belong took over my head. I put Sweet Possession on hold, and dove straight into this story I couldn’t seem to shake. By the time I published Where I Belong, Sweet Addiction had reached more readers than I ever thought possible. I was still excited about that first 8. When anyone takes a chance on my writing, it floors me. Even if they don’t like the story, I’m still grateful for the time they gave my book. Every single reader matters to me.
I published Where I Belong, and something amazing happened. No, I don’t even think amazing covers it. I’m still in shock about this. I’ll probably always be in shock about this.
I hit the lists, and I cried.
I never thought any of this was possible. I was just a girl who sat in front of her laptop after her kids went to bed, and wrote about a bakery shop owner, a gay assistant, a kick-ass best friend, and a few hot accountants. I never expected anyone to like my writing, and I definitely never expected anyone to want to read anything else from me.
You didn’t have to take a chance on my book, but you did, and that means more to me than anything else.
You’ve changed my life.
You are my first 8.
xo,
J
elena k says
what an amazing post! dreams come true and you are an example of this!I hope you keep writing wonderfully like this! we sure love your books!
Barbara Murray says
I absolutely LOVE Sweet Addiction series and I can’t wait for Brooke’s story!!!
Britney Harris says
I love that you’re such a humble person. I follow you on facebook and have even messaged you telling you how much I loved Sweet Addiction. And I definitely fangirled when you actually took the time to write back. I’ve got Sweet Possession on my phone and kindle waiting on me to finish the book I’m on now. And am going to get Where I belong today as well. Thank you so much for your time and effort. Your books are amazing and Sweet Addiction had me laughing, crying and yelling “You go girl!” in my head lol. As long as you’re writing, I’ll be reading.
Much love!
Britney
Teresa says
I totally agree with you….she is so humble. She also took the time to comment on my post on Instagram and she is following me….super cool
Teresa says
I totally agree with you….she is so humble. She also took the time to comment on my post on Instagram and she is following me….super cool
ronda brimeyer says
You changed my life life too!! I for one am glad children sleep!!!!! For your writing and my reading. Can’t wait for more too come from you.
Barbara Murray says
I absolutely love Sweet Addiction series and can’t wait for Brooke’s story!!!
Selagi says
I Love your writing and enjoy soaking up each page. I connected with your characters from the beginning and fell in love instantly. You’re an Amazing Author and I cannot wait to see what else you have in store for us!
Teresa says
WOW!!!! That’s just an amazing story, it brought tears to my eyes.
Honestly, I haven’t read your books yet, but I bought them and they are waiting for me on my kindle library. I heard amazing things about your books and can’t wait to read them. I just need my class to be over soon so I can read and read and read.
I can say that one thing that caught my attention is your humble way to interact with your readers, I love that about you and not many author does that, and I understand that it’s not easy to keep in touch, but I feel honored and extremely happy when I see that you liked it one of my post on Instagram and you are following me too, just amazing
Cheryl says
I just loved all 3 of your books, and I wish there were more of Reese and Dylan to come. Or, anyone else you wish to write about. For sure, I’ll read it.
Jen says
I’ve read those three and CANT FREAKING WAIT for the next. Congratulations on the well deserved success. Congrats on taking a chance on yourself. I sincerely hope you celebrate with a cupcake and hot guy today.
F@ck yeah, J!
Karina says
Thank you for creating such awesome characters and stories that makes putting your books down nearly impossible. I’m glad I took a chance on Sweet Addiction because it is now one of my favorites. Where I Belong is not far behind. Now every romance novel I read is measured against yours. I find myself looking for bits of Reese (who can blame me) in the male leads; splashes of JoJo’s sass in the best friend and the strong yet slightly vulnerability of Dylan in all my female leads. Never doubt yourself again because honey you got it! And please. ..give me more!
Deb Davis says
I absolutely loved Dylan and Reese…and I fell in love very rapidly with Ben Kelly. You are at the top of my favorite authors list an I will continue to read EVERY book you write…thank you for sticking with it and for your talent…it is very appreciated by this empty nester and new grandma!!!!!
Nicole says
I have about 60 pages left to read of “Sweet Addiciont.” I’ve been taking my time with it, savouring it, enjoying every mouthwatering moment of Reese and Dylan’s story.
Thank you, for taking the chance to share it with us readers. Like so many of us, I dream of writing one day, and I can only imagine the courage it took on your part to hit send or publish, as it may be.
I love this story so very much, and I plan on reading more of your work in the near future.
Continued success to you!…xo
Michelle says
I love your writing style, it makes me laugh out loud most of the time. i’ll definitely read anything that you write in the future. And i really appreciate and love that you reply and comment on instagram.
Jennifer R says
🙂 just love all three of your books.can not wait for your next book and the book after that and what comes after that:) Is it crazy for me to say that I’m proud of you? Reading what u just wrote has made me cry, happy cry. xx
Lisa Davis says
I will continue to reread all your books that have been published and any new ones that come out. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve reread all your books from cover to cover, they are my favorite and I read a lot of books. I’ve got my sister hooked too and she keeps asking when a new book is coming out, like I”ve got an in with you or something. You make your characters as I imagine you to be, smart, funny, engaging and approachable. Thank you for your creativity and sharing it so graciously will all of us. Does this comment make me sound like a fangirl? I’m okay with it if it does:-)
Kelley says
You’re an amazing author with an incredible talent. I connect to all of your character, including all of the supporting, secondary ones, and THAT doesn’t happen often. And yes, when i read this letter to your fans… I cried! I’m definitely a fan for life and eagerly await everything you publish!!
debbie batt says
And what a damm good book , loved all 3 of them and can’t wait to read more from you , so glad they took a chance on you ,, your a good writer and hope you keep it up xxx
Geena King says
Thank you for taking the leap into sharing your stories with us! They are simply amazing and I love them to death!
Patty Grey says
I enjoyed your book from the first chapter. I remember when you ask me to read it for you, I agreed not knowing I was going to love it. Congratulations and I hope you succeed with more books. Love you, Mrspattygrey…
Hikitia Tutua says
I love your books you have taken time and care to get it just right amd have made it into something that i can read over amd over again and never get tired of it
Amber says
Your books are amazing! I have loved every one. You are a talented author and I can’t wait to read more of your creations!
Sara Wors says
I have fallen in love with you! I love your books! I love your humor and the hotness! I can’t wait until the next books in any of your series comes out. I’m patiently waiting! Thank you for my escape!
I wish I had the guts to write. I e thought about doing a book blog as I have seriously read over 600 books in a little over 2.5 years that’s just what I’ve read on my Nook. That doesn’t include my paperbacks and what I have on my Amazon Kindle app. So I’ve thought about it but have been to chicken to do it. Where do I start? What do I say? Will I get any hits? I’m lost!
Cheryl L. says
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it once again, your books changed me, centered me, and have become a safe haven where I go to when I have bad days. Your books captured me, made me laugh out loud and cry out loud. Your books made me believe that you can be kick-ass and sweet all at the same time. I am addicted to the sugar in your books. Please don’t stop writing. I will forever be a fan and will forever treasure your books! Thank you for such an amazing gift! 🙂
amy says
I love your style of writing so as much as you thank your fan which is really appreciated we as your readers should also be thanking you for writing such books that not only make us laugh but can relate so much with the characters. So Thank You!!!!!
Debbie R. says
As soon as I read Sweet Addiction, I knew I had to read more. Love your work and will continue to read and wait for more! Keep it coming J.
Eva N. Marchany says
Congratulations and I look forward to reading more of your books 🙂
Debbie says
I have to say you have become my new favourite author. I found Sweet Addiction add a freebie on Amazon and I jumped at the chance. Loved the sorry from the 1st line I think, your sense of humor (that I totally get by the way) made new laugh and I could see myself thinking the same thing.
With the ending I was greening ripped off no way could you end it like that I needed more of Reece and Dylan abs alas I discovered Sweet Possession aaahhh
Darla says
You are an awesome talented writer! I loved the Sweet Addiction series! Just started Where I Belong and so far I’m loving it! Keep up the great work! Already can’t wait for your next release!
Melanie Webre says
I love the Sweet Addiction series for more than one reason. But after reading your email….you totally rock!! Looking forward to more of your writing….from this mom who’s totally addicted to her kindle.
Cory Bez says
Where can I find the books in South Africa not in our library or bookstores. They hopeless txs a mill please help
Mandy says
It’s great to hear where people started and how readers and other authors make a difference.
I feel honoured every time I get to beta read a story and loved doing yours too. Keep up the great work and keep those stories coming!
Samantha says
You are a phenomenal writer. Your stories pull you in from the start. Can’t put them down. May you continue to have great success. CAN’T wait for next one. Good luck and God bless.
tracy says
I have your books But haven’t started yet. This is so Awesome and I’ve heard nothing But good things! Congratulations and much success to you!!!!
Diane Lee says
You are one truly amazing women. Your talented and really sincere. Thanks for sharing your talent in these awesome stories and thank you for sharing your experience as you reach new WOW.
Des says
I finished reading Sweetest Possession this weekend and I can’t say enough good things about this book. Dylan and Reese by far have become my favorite romance couple and I loved loved loved their chemistry.
But the selling point on this book for me was Dylan. Her attitude, her friends – were fantastic. Sure, she is mouthy and cursey – but she reminds me of me and that’s why I love her so much.
Great job with this one and I keep asking my husband for a hot pink stand mixer too!
Frankie says
I freaking love you, J Daniels! I love all your characters. If I’m having a bad day and need a laugh I always know I can open up sweet addiction, sweet possession or where I belong and pull up my bookmarked pages and my day instantly gets better. Thank you for that. You rock, can’t wait to read more!
Maggie Baily says
Wow – I’m so impressed. I read a ton of books and finding out this was your first one is amazing especially because it’s well written – and I don’t mean grammatically because lots of people know their grammar rules – but story and plot flowed greatly. I read Sweet Addiction this past summer and fell in love with the characters and the story. And sheepishly admit I’ve read it more than once, twice maybe more than three times – I say that because I’m most likely not even close to your reading demographics. I’ve also consumed Sweet Possession too (more than once). I am a writer myself and I’m truly inspired by your endeavors and now have the Alabama series on my to read list. I wish your more continued success and look forward to many enjoyable future reads.
Missy Simmons says
Ahhh….I <3 this post! Keep on keeping on chickadee…you have a life long fan in me and many others. I LOVE your wicked since of humor mixed with the hotness! My kinda books!
Anne Jay says
As an aspiring writer I can honestly say your work really is inspirational and that this post gave me so much hope! I plan to read everything you ever put out so please write to your heart’s content, at least this audience member can promise that there will always be that first 8, even if it means me buying it for everyone I know to read!
Angie says
I took a chance on Sweet Addiction and fell in love. I love your writing style and cannot wait for more writings from you! Please keep us up to date on the release of Brooke’s story if you are writing it 🙂
JLoves2Read says
J. I can tell you from the moment I read Sweet Addiction — I knew! You have a talent! I love your books!! Each one is great and each one grabs you as a reader and pulls you in..you are able to connect with the characters and feel what they are going through!
You deserve it all!!
P.S. Give us more Reese 🙂
Laura says
Wow. It is so cool to read the story of your journey to authorship. I just found “Sweet Addiction” via the GoodReads App and absolutely fell in love with it! I’ve actually never been a huge reader, but once I started your book, I seriously was obsessed and couldn’t put it down! Then went on and completed “Sweet Possession” immediately after. I never knew or would’ve ever thought this was your first novel! It was so amazingly brilliant! I absolutely love your wicked humor. And your characters are so well developed and written that they simply jump off the pages! I felt I was part of the gang. Dylan and Reese are adorable and sexy and I absolutely love Joey. And seriously Reese is the most perfect man ever! Makes all others look bad… “Goddamn it, Billy.” Indeed. 😉 LOL
But seriously, congrats on all your success, you so deserve it! And I am definitely a new fan and will be for life! Can’t wait to read more!! 🙂
angie says
wow! what a touching post! im a mother also…to three children….you made me realise that anything ‘REALLY IS’ possible!
.Its so amazing…ive heard about you….then i just happen to stumble across you through my instagram!
You seem so genuine and approachable….thats always a gift for readers x