My Book Is Out!

This post is off topic. I'm not writing about how to get published. Nope, this time I'm writing about the fact that I just did. I'm now published.

Yes, I did it. I self-published. I hit the PUBLISH button on Amazon approximately twenty minutes ago. THE CONSEQUENTIAL ELEMENT is now for sale (or will be by 9:00 am tomorrow morning).

And now I sit here dabbing at the perspiration that has broken out on my upper lip and back of neck. I thought I would be overjoyed... and I am. I thought I would feel elated at the thought of actually completing something that I've spent so much time on... and I am. I thought my heart would soar at the thought of such an amazing accomplishment... and it is. But I honestly never expected to feel so vulnerable.

Why do I feel vulnerable? Because I just opened my soul for the world to see. The book is fiction, true, but it is also a part of who I am. It is my thoughts, visions, feelings, actions, and senses that made the characters who they are. It is my past, present, and future who have made Danielle who she is. There are resemblances, no matter how hard I tried to deny it while writing it... there are resemblances. And anyone who knows me will pick up on them, and anyone who doesn't will try to relate them to me. So, I'm vulnerable. But you know what? I think I'm okay with it.

I invite you in to share a piece of my world. Read THE CONSEQUENTIAL ELEMENT and let me know what you think. There is a hidden message for my readers and down the road (not too far) I'm going to have a drawing for the person who can tell me what that message is. There will be a 100.00 gift card for that lucky person.

If you like it, leave a review. If you don't, drop me an email and let me know what you didn't like. I'd like to know... really.

Get ready, because I'm about to become one of those authors who toots her book wherever and whenever possible. Gotta get the word out, you know? In fact, if any of you would like to help in that area, I'd be forever in your debt.

I leave you with this piece of insight: Don't to give up on your dreams. If your dream is to write, do it. But if you’re going to do it, do it to the best of your ability. Learn the craft and become a professional. Don’t put anything out there in the world with your brand on it unless it reflects on you in the best possible light. If you choose to indie publish, treat it like you would through a traditional process. Have your work copy edited, proofread, and fine-tuned to the best it can be. Be an author, not just a writer. Only then will your dream come true.

Love to all and wish you the best in success and happiness.

Dee Ann

Marketing Your Novel - What do you know about it?

First, sorry about dropping off the face of the earth. I’ve been so wrapped up in my books that I haven’t had time for anything else. I have one (The Consequential Element) out with an agent, another that I am tweaking up before sending to beta readers, and a third that I have started gathering information to begin writing.  I’ve also been working non-stop on marketing ideas and strategies. And in between all that, I’ve been smacked around by life. She’s a real witch sometimes, don’t you think? I mean, talk about kicking someone when they’re down. It seemed the more crap that happened the more she threw at me. But I showed her. I’m still standing. I’m still living.

I’ve received several emails from readers regarding my subtle disappearance and again, I’m sorry. I had no idea I would be missed by so many. Really warms my heart. J Thank you.

How has everyone been? What are you up to? Has anyone been published while I was away? Anyone secure an agent? Come on – do tell! We’d all love to hear some great news, even if it’s not our own. And what an opportunity to plug your work for free advertising!

Marketing Your Novel - what do you know about it?

As I said, I’ve been working on a marketing plan. I’ve learned a few things that appear to be working for me, some of which may be helpful to you.

First and foremost, figure out your target audience. You should put your greatest effort into this. Without knowing who will buy your books, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Unless you have a ton of money that you can throw around – and waste – you’d be best served in figuring out this all-important point first. I find that many new authors waste a tremendous amount of time barking up the wrong tree. Why would you spend time talking up your romance novel to a known true-blue sci-fi reader? Yet, so many writers do just that. Know who is interested in your book and spend your time and money there.

Build your author platform. Get hooked up with Twitter, a blog, a GOOD website – if not great, Facebook, Goodreads, and any other social media you can think of. I’m not a huge fan of Facebook, but it has proven good enough for me to get a list of about 270 people who have requested and are eagerly awaiting the release of The Consequential Element. Also, for me I’ve found Goodreads to be a great source of readers interested in my writing.

Get out and network. Attend events and pass out business cards, leave a stack business cards in coffee shops, bookstores, etc., prepare a great giveaway (be different!), visit venues that your book is related to, become a guest speaker at a book festival or conference, and don’t forget to network with other authors. Approach local bookstores about carrying your books, setting up signings, and a holding a book launch. Get and give interviews with other authors.

Visit Author Marketing Experts, Inc. for some of the best advice you’ll find. I also read an interesting article on Why Email Marketing Benefits Your Book's Sales. Check it out. And for an abundance of great advice, you have to visit Rachell Gardner's site about marketing your book.

Okay, so I hope you find some great information to help you along the marketing path. Have a great marketing idea? Do you know something that's worked for yourself or someone you know that may be helpful to us here? SHARE!

Until next time, stay safe, happy, and successful.

All my best,

Dee Ann