When I decided to write my first novel, I was so excited to put my story to paper. I was very naïve as to what all was involved. I thought, you have an idea, you write it on paper or type into a computer and then try to find a publisher to accept it. Then you get a few copies of your book to sell.
I was so far off! You can be overcome with emotions as the story develops and you take on the development of each character. You also set yourself up to be vulnerable; especially if you are telling a story about true events. It can actually drain you mentally and physically. Sometimes you are required to go places you don’t want to go. A place deep down inside of you. After you write and re-write, you may decide to scratch it all and then later decide you need the part you scratched. After I got what I thought was a "good book" on paper, I was advised by a friend and fellow author, to seek out a good editor.
Finding an excellent editor was the easy part. I went with my friend‘s recommendation. I was disappointed when I found out how much work my "good" book needed. The editing process is brutal, but well worth it in the end. If you are fortunate like I was.. you also gain a new friend.
The next step is praying and trying to get your new baby published. I was fortunate, blessed and elated when TouchPoint Press accepted my manuscript. Such an excellent publishing company liked my work!! Now, I just need to sit back and wait for things to happen...fast! Nope. It’s a lengthy process.
I was (still am) extremely inexperienced in this procedure. After the manuscript is accepted, it is assigned to an editor. But guess what? You are not the only one that editor has to work with...so you are put in line and wait your turn. Your manuscript is returned to you to make the edited changes. At this time the author can add any additional changes. But...you are still not through. The manuscript is sent to the Senior Editor for approval. Again, you wait your turn in line. We are getting close and the excitement builds.
When the editing process is completed it's time to decide on a cover. With the publisher’s permission I rejected the first cover. No big problem, right? Again, I learn something new. The art department is somewhere else and works for other publishers as well. You guessed it.. time to be in line waiting our turn again.
Excitedly, the new cover arrives in my in-box. I love the design... I’m doing the happy dance!!! Very soon, I get the email, that my book will be released on a certain date. My publisher has it added to Amazon and Barnes and Nobel. I’m on my way. Thrilled... I post to all the social media sites. But wait, the announcement sent out says it is only available on Kindle and the paperback can be purchased only through the publisher. Having no idea that the very next day the paper back would also be available through Amazon and Barnes and Nobel; I ordered books through the publisher and some other people did too. None of our books have arrived.
I’m in a panic...but I order a few books I'm giving as Christmas gifts from Amazon. The season is slowing the process. Again...guess what??? The actual printing is done through someone else also, back in line. I haven't waited this much in line since my last trip to the amusement park.
Now the time has come to market my book. Another new experience. I sold Girl Scout cookies about 60 years ago, is that enough experience? Probably not. So while I’m waiting on my books to arrive, I start getting promotional material printed.
I’m hoping for a book signing, but everything is on hold until I can get some books. My second book order has been placed. Still no books. I’m sure this is normal, but very new to me. I'm realizing I'm not the only writer wanting their book out there. Go figure. So another lesson. Patience is very necessary when you want to have a book published. However, I want it done right...so I wait...in line.
From beginning to end, it is all a learning experience. My publishing company has been very patient with me and my frustrations. Next time I will be more aware of the process, allowing it to be a much more pleasant experience for everyone.
In the meantime, people have been buying my book and leaving really good reviews, contacting me directly, and sharing with others, which I am very appreciative and thankful.
Lives are being touched. This was my goal. So I feel good.
In the meantime, I continue to work on novel number two as I await the marketing to begin on my first novel Broken Pieces. I am excited!
