I am learning more about my reading tastes but I’m also learning which authors’ careers and styles I would like for my own author journey.
Why it’s good to know this
- Comp Titles – these are comparative titles, as in books that are similar in style or genre to your work, which you will need to know when querying to agents
- Agents / Representation – speaking of agents, knowing which authors you like or aspire towards lends well to creating a list of agents to query to (query to agents who represent the authors whose careers you want for yourself)
- Research and Practice of Styles – it’s useful to know what you like to see/read for yourself, so you can try to emulate (not copy!!) this for your work
- Feedback – if you feel like your work isn’t working for you, maybe it’s because you admire authors and their styles but you’re writing in a completely different way to them!
Career authors I aspire towards
Here is a list of authors whose careers I would like for myself.
- R. F. Kuang
- Taylor Jenkins-Reid
- Olivie Blake
- V. E. Schwab (aka Victoria Schwab)
Variety
The reason for this is because, firstly, they all have variety in their work. They aren’t afraid (or prohibited) to cross genres, age ranges, or style. All of them have written books in more than one genre. Some genre-blend, too, where the mix genres together in a unique way. I would love an agent/publishing support team that allows me to do this as well.
I have so many ideas and I’m pretty sure I’d love to write in many genres (variations of fantasy, contemporary, horror, and dystopian) and age ranges too.
Long backlist
They all have many books that you can go back and read, too, especially Victoria Schwab. I want to be someone who puts out a lot of work. Someone who feels free and able to explore all my interests and puts out work consistently. I don’t want the pressure to produce, of course, but the freedom to do so. I want to feel like I can; I want their minds where new ideas are always coming and have the time and energy to bring them into fruition.
Loyal readers
They also each seem to have a loyal reader following where readers will buy or try their work no matter the genre. I would love to have this! To be an instant-buy author for a loyal group of readers who like my work, no matter the genre or format.
Styles I admire
These are authors whose style of writing appeals to me and influences my work.
- Sally Rooney
- Taylor Jenkins-Reid
- Kylie Lee Baker
- Mona Awad
- Juno Dawson
- Andy Weir
Sally’s fearless approach to formatting and character-driven stories. Taylor’s impressive character and emotional explorations in various places and time periods. Kylie’s poignant handling of relevant social issues within horror. Mona’s quirky, strange, not-afraid-to-confuse-and-shock you style to dark academia, social issues and feminine rage. Juno’s hilarious approach to storytelling while also balancing real emotions and profound takes on social issues. And lastly, Andy’s humour, mystery, and relationships in his stories; that setting them in space doesn’t remove the humanity and emotions of it all.
I am sending out this clear vision into the universe, so the universe knows what I want and can support me in this pursuit!
Sincerely,
S. xx
S. R. Crawford 