Most people imagine writing a novel ends the day you type "The End." Or maybe on release day, when the book finally arrives in bookstores.
The truth is, there's a long middle that almost no one sees. That's where I'm at now!
Those of you who know me personally or follow me on social media know I've been on "vacation" in South Dakota, but in reality, it's a working vacation.
Yes, I make time to sit outside and watch the deer. Drink coffee. Go on hikes. But the bulk of my day is spent preparing for the release of Who We Used To Be.
What does that mean? Well, a big part of preparing a book for release day is getting the word out that it's coming. Authors do this with the help of wonderful reviewers who pre-read the book and share their thoughts with their followers. So, during this "middle" time between finishing and releasing the book, I spend a significant amount of time requesting reviews from publications and independent reviewers.
I've also started contacting bookstores. Just the ones I'd like to visit or where I'd like to hold a signing or event. My book launch will probably be close to home in California, so I've been in touch with a couple of bookstores I like, and I should firm up the date soon.
Something else the writers do is update their website. I added Who We Used To Be to my website, and for someone who is not tech-savvy, this was a challenge. I can't afford to hire a web designer, or I'd definitely outsource this part. One day!
There's designing bookmarks, banners, and other promotional material.
And probably the least exciting is making sure the book is listed on GoodReads, Bookbub, and all the sites readers enjoy visiting.
Late at night, when all the work is finished or on hold, there is the silent wondering if anyone will read the novel and like it. There's always that question because writers are human and we question ourselves all the time. I love it, but will anyone else?
One of the themes in Who We Used to Be is that the most significant changes often happen gradually rather than all at once.
This is true even for authors and their book launches. A successful book launch isn't just the day the book is released, when the author is signing books and sipping champagne. It's built by dozens of small, unseen moments.
I remind myself when I'm working long hours that the meaningful parts of life often happen long before anyone else notices. And I keep working.
Every review, every event, every email is another small step toward release day. I'm grateful that, in a way, you are on the journey with me.
