"Admittedly, I might make it easier to insert yourself into his headspace, but also I do think he had enough tragedy for several lifetimes. Victorians were incurably dramatic," Theodore pointed out. "Is that the worst review you've gotten? I've had a couple bad ones and I have to admit that it's difficult to not take them deeply personally." A little smile, but it was the truth to a degree. He knew they weren't meant to be - couldn't be - personal attacks, but they had focused on the portrayal of Elena's family - her two fathers, in particular. Debated if it was appropriate subject matter for children. It was hard to not take that personally.
He nodded as he had another taste of the brie. Yes, it was certainly very good. "The worst bit is certainly the publicity piece," Theodore told Hugh, without really having to think on it. "Especially in an...increasingly digital business, publishers really do find worth in having a personal touch, a face to go with a name, all of that." Though it was true, this release would bring the first electronic editions of his books. "I'm good in this situation - one-on-one, small groups - but get me in front of a crowd and honestly, I get a bit antsy." He shrugged a little. He'd always been more private. "But the best part is...well, going into a shop, and seeing your name on the shelf, you know? Having young people tell me how much they liked the book, little girls telling me they want to be just like Elena. It's...it's very uplifting." And it was the positivity he'd needed, after Jamie. A way to matter to someone, even though he knew that he would always have that with Elaine. To share his love for his family with the wider world.