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Debra's not alone in the use of a pseudonym for writing.
Writers choose to use a pseudonym for many reasons. For myself, I chose to use one to keep my 'real' life and my writing life separate. This worked well for a few years, but as time went on, the lines became blurrier. I'm still not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing. I guess it depends on the circumstance or the day.
Amanda Quick is the pseudonym for one of my favorite writers, Jayne Ann Krentz. Her books always go on my keeper shelf, and when I look at the expanse of her particular section on my shelves, she's one of my many inspirations for wanting to be a multi-published author. Due to publishing house contracts, etc. Jayne Ann Krentz has used many pseudonyms throughout her career for her contemporary novels.
Amanda Quick has always been her pseudonym for writing historical romantic suspense.
What I find really intriguing, is that she has a series, The Arcane Society, which is written across three of her pen names: Jayne Ann Krentz (contemporary setting), Amanda Quick (historical setting), and Jayne Castle (futuristic setting). To me, this is impressive. I have trouble keeping one genre and identify straight in my head. I can't imagine juggling three.
I don't think I've read anything written as Jayne Castle, but I've delved into many Jayne Ann Krentz books and a few Amanda Quick books. Again, what's interesting is that she really does have a different voice in each of her genres. If I didn't know, I'd never guess it was the same person writing.
I think a lot of choosing a different name for a different genre has a lot to do with branding and establishing consistency.
Until next time,
Happy Reading!
Debra
www.debrastjohnromance.com
Amanda Quick is one of my favourites too. I have books from all three of her writing names, and the odd one or two from her early pseudonym- think it was something like Stephanie James.
ReplyDeleteIf you write in a different sub-genre having a pseudonym ensures the reader will never be confused, or disappointed (and stop buying your books) because they know what type of stories they will get with that name.
I'm sure that after a few books it becomes easier to move into the 'voice' of whichever name it is.
I think it's definitely good for readers in keeping different genres separate for sure.
DeleteI am in awe (and envious) of anyone who can write in several genres, let along change their voice/style for each!
ReplyDeleteI know, right?!
DeleteIf I had to do it again, I'd probably use a pseudonym for my writing, at least one if not two. I'm in awe of people who can have such distinct voices across multiple genres.
ReplyDeleteThose uber talented people are really amazing.
DeleteI love reading all Jayne Ann Krentz's genres.
ReplyDeleteI have chosen a pseudonym for my western historicals. My real name is plastered all over my business website. I'm not sure if I'll pick a different name for my to-be-written contemporary series. People say it can be hard work to promote in multiple pseudonyms.
I agree about the work. Not only are you managing different names, but sometimes different web-sites and blogs for each persona. It boggles my mind.
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