Karin Rita Gastreich wrote:Jeanne M. Bannon wrote:Hi Karin,
I always go with my instincts. What feels right for you? One good thing is that you're not shy about writing sex scenes - that was always my problem and I'd refused a publisher or two when asked to add them. That said, sex sells. Consider that seriously. If you want more sales, then keep the heat level where it is. I haven't heard anything about the publisher. Can't help you there, but congratulations on the offer. I wish you all the success in the world!
Thank you, Jeanne!
I think my instincts are in an epic battle with my Catholic upbringing right now. 
That's a good point about sex selling. Of course, in an ideal world, I'd like the novel to sell on more than the merits of its sex scenes, but sometimes you've gotta say, "Whatever it takes."
I actually consider myself shy when it comes to crafting & sharing sex scenes; tNBW has given me a 'safe space' to explore that part of story telling. To be honest, I find sex scenes a pain to write, but I've also always considered sex a natural part of my character's lives, and so I try to make it a natural part of the story. And in The Hunting Grounds, sex is a very important part of Helen's journey. I would have never pegged tHG as "erotic," but I guess somewhere along the way I crossed the magic line. So, I don't know...Lots to think about.
I discovered this afternoon that there are actually two publishing operations that carry the name "Wild Rose:" Wild Rose Press and Wild Rose Publishing. (There is also "Black Rose Writing," which is another entity altogether.) According to Predators & Editors, Wild Rose Press is legit and gets overall good reports; while Wild Rose Publishing is not recommended. Wild Rose Press is the one that's expressed interest in tHG. It's a small press but looks to be a solid operation.
I'm sure whatever you decide will be right for you. Personally, I now prefer self-publishing over traditional publishing because I am in complete control. I've been there, done that with both trad and self pubbing. I don't like not being able to choose my own cover and I don't like relying on the publisher to send me a sales report. I much prefer having a peek at my sales whenever I like. I don't really trust traditional publishers. However, that said, if Harper Collins or Random House came a callin', I'd sure as hell sign on the dotted line 
Let us know what you decide.
