Today we’d like to introduce you to Mo Flames.
Hi Mo, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve been writing since I could hold a pencil. Before my dad purchased a Brothers electronic typewriter, I used to carry around bright yellow, legal notepads to scribble my thoughts. Once I sat down in front of that typewriter, I felt like Stephen J. Cannell. I might be telling my age from that last statement, but I knew one day I would become a published author.
When I was a teenager, I loved to make up stories, especially rewriting the endings to some of the sweet romance novels I’d read. I didn’t always appreciate the happily-ever-after when the story ended. Although they were fun to read, I didn’t believe in the fairytale that all relationships were that perfect. I thought to myself I could write entertaining, yet scandalous and believable stories that people would wonder, ‘did this really happen?’ So I did.
In 2006, I wrote my first manuscript and it was published in 2008 by a small press publisher. Then in 2016, I chose to take a leap of faith to become an indie author. I started my publishing company, Flames Entertainment and stepped into the world of indie publishing.
Oh and some have asked, how did I come up with my unique pen name. I felt it was needed in order to protect my identity. The stories I pen I’d rather not have my government name on the cover. So, I shortened my middle name – Monique to Mo. I chose Flames because of the desire to pen spicy contemporary romance. I will be known for leaving that fire between the sheets…literally.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all.
My first book was published under a small press publisher. Unfortunately, I went through an unpleasant experience. I learned being an author under someone else’s company, they had rights to my name as well as my stories. They controlled whether or not they would publish my works. For more than a decade, the publisher rejected my manuscripts and declined to move forward on my ideas for the writing projects.
After the release of my first book, none of my other works were published.
I honestly felt like I was a failure at writing. I didn’t think I was good enough. Imposter syndrome and doubt settled in. I found myself in a dark space, unable to shake the feeling I wasn’t cut out for being an author after all. Ultimately, I put my pen down…but thankfully it was only for a little while. Once I found a supportive writing community, I connected with an amazing mentor and coach, who has assisted me throughout this journey.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I write fiction stories in the romance sub-genre, contemporary romance. Unlike other writers in the romance genre who might stick to one sub-genre, in addition to erotica, I’ve added suspense and thriller to my recent series. I enjoyed pushing myself to create well-crafted, relatable characters and weaving unforgettable, complex storylines.
I’m also proud that I never gave up on my dream after being rejected multiple times. I’d submitted complete manuscripts to my publisher, only to be told they’re not good enough. There wasn’t any direction or further guidance, just no. Someone else in my shoes, may have taken that and given up without fighting. For me, it was a sign to choose a different path. Although it was delayed, I didn’t stop striving toward the goal of being published.
In 2016, I took back control by applying for my business license and Flames Entertainment, LLC was formed. Often, indie authors are focused solely on one area – writing, and they miss the other important aspects of the business. I spent the next couple of years learning about the indie publishing process. I also joined several writing and business groups that were instrumental in helping me to hone in on my craft, as well as learn how to be a successful small business. I’m excited to share that in 2022 my first series, One Ain’t Enough will be released under my publishing company, Flames Entertainment.
Contact Info:
- Email: moflames@gmail.com
- Website: www.moflames.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/moflames_author
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/mo.flames
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/moflames
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgQ1_X-JA8NUCXYQ8jYTsXQ
Image Credits
Positive Images Photography Roy Cox Photography
