Insecure Writer’s Support Group (May)

The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. On this day we post about our thoughts, our doubts, and the fears we have conquered. We discuss our struggles and triumphs, and offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling.

Every post opens with a question (a blogging prompt, if you will), and this month's is: What is the weirdest/coolest thing you ever had to research for your story?

Wow, where do I even begin? I have read a lot about the history of birth control pills, how the ingredients have changed, and what effect they have had on trans biology. I have researched the fascinating world of chemical and biological castration, and the historical cultures that utilized it for ceremonial or religious purposes. I have investigated the gender-fluid branches of ancient mythology, exploring hermaphroditic and gender-changing gods and goddesses. Oh, and most recently I have been doing a lot of reading about ancient mummies, their elaborate tombs, and where archaeological truth and literary fantasy do (surprisingly) overlap.

Otherwise, in terms of writing progress, the first instalment in my series of pulp erotica adventures is almost done, with about 1,000 to 1,500 words to go. I have had to hit the pause on that, however, as I am working on a shorter story as part of a really exciting anthology that will be coming out in the next few weeks, featuring a great group of authors who regular readers will instantly recognize.