Breaking into the world of writing isn’t easy, but it’s even tougher when your work doesn’t fit into what’s traditionally seen as “mainstream.” For Caitlin Holloway, who authored Russo’s Doll under her pen name Abby Orr, getting her debut erotic novel into readers’ hands was no small feat.
It took four years of self-doubt, determination, and support from loved ones before she finally took the leap.
And the wait was worth it!
Why Writing Erotica Is Tougher Than It Looks
Writing erotica isn’t for the faint-hearted. The genre often comes with stereotypes, and writers can feel boxed in or dismissed before anyone even reads their work. Caitlin knew the looks she would get but refused to let it stop her. “Honestly, the hardest part wasn’t writing the story—it was finding the courage to actually publish it,” she shares.
Her book, Russo’s Doll, was not another steamy romance. It also had some emotional depth, tension, and hesitation that comes with getting involved in a steamy romance. She created a literary concoction with just the right amount of thrill to keep readers hooked.
What is Russo’s Doll About?
The novel comes with a trigger warning. It introduces us to Aurora, a young woman drowning in debt, and Liam, a man with power, control, and a dangerous charm. Their meeting may feel like fate, but it quickly turns into something much more intense. As Aurora is drawn deeper into Liam’s world, she’s forced to confront desires she never knew she had.
The plot builds on external conflicts, such as Liam’s criminal dealings and Aurora’s attempts to escape her past, alongside the internal conflicts of trust, fear, and desire that define their relationship.
Told through multiple perspectives, Russo’s Doll doesn’t just tell a story but takes readers on a journey filled with emotions, desires, betrayal, and much more. Caitlin’s storytelling style is immersive, and readers can actually be a part of this new world. She ensured that the characters were relatable for the readers so that they could feel every word. And Russo’s Doll is just the beginning of her series of stories.
How Did It All Begin?
Caitlin’s love for writing started when she was young. Growing up in a small town in Iowa, writing and reading were her way of escaping a rough childhood. As an adult, she found herself drawn to erotic romance and BDSM stories. Books like Fifty Shades of Grey and Buttons and Lace made her realize this was a genre she wanted to explore as a writer.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. “I sat on this book for over four years,” Caitlin admits. Her husband, her biggest cheerleader, finally gave her the push she needed. “He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself,” she recalls.
For Caitlin, the journey of publishing wasn’t just about writing—it was about overcoming fear and finding her voice. “This book is a part of me. And I hope it connects with people the way it’s connected with me,” she mentions.
One of the things that makes Russo’s Doll stand out is Caitlin’s knack for making her characters feel real. She writes from multiple points of view, allowing readers to see the world through both Aurora’s and Liam’s eyes. This layered storytelling helps readers understand the characters and connect with them.
And while it is undeniably a romance novel, there’s a suspenseful edge too. If you’re into steamy romances with a side of crime thriller vibes, this book is for you.
You can grab your copy now from Amazon.com.