Category: News

Unexpected Perks of Being Published

Holy moly, nearly three months ago, I realized a dream come true: the publication of my light-hearted, mystery novel. So what did I expect after publication? Work. A lot of it. The ever present constants of marketing, promotion and writing, while working the day job and breathing and eating and sleeping now and then. What I didn’t expect were the marvelous byproducts.

A byproduct is something that happens as a result of something else. As a result of my publication, I started a Facebook account and reconnected with wonderful friends from long ago and galaxies far away. And I discovered new ones. There are so many lovely people I never would have had the pleasure of encountering but for the book. I’ve met other writers, bloggers, bookstore owners, bookstore visitors, readers, local postal employees, librarians, friends of friends, everyone at my local bank, a hostess at a popular restaurant and a multitude of others – an absolutely wonderful mix! All because they’d read or heard of my novel. It’s such a surprising treat to be regarded as someone who’s accomplished something of small note.

I’d heard tales from other writers of unkind remarks by friends and strangers alike, but thankfully, I’ve not yet been subjected. Or maybe I have, but haven’t noticed because I’m walking on billowy cloud feet.

And the most important perk: I’ve learned firsthand, the not so secret ingredient behind success, the magic that makes it happen: persistence. I gave up several times during my drafting days. Especially the early draft days. I swore off writing forever. Two weeks would go by, and then something would draw me back. A quiet but necessary something. A need.

There’s a ton of blood, sweat and tears that goes into that first book. But it was worth every last drop.

Post Office Tips for Writers

Writers spend a lot of time at the post office. At least I do as a newly minted author. I send print copies of my book out to reviewers, to contest winners, journalists, libraries and persons of interest. Of interest to me, that is.

At my local post office, waiting in line is a little like playing Russian roulette. I’ll either be assisted by:

– one of two kindly, sympathetic, and highly efficient workers behind the counter; or

– the cantankerous manifestation of a female who appears to have lost both her sanity and smile eons ago;

The window belonging to the latter is littered with large Post-its detailing warnings: “No mailing letters or envelopes containing weapons.” “Baton Rouge is not in France.” “Have proper change ready.” On this last one, I’m afraid I once approached her with one dollar when my stamps cost ninety-two cents. I did not receive my change.

Authors sending out books know that even with media mail, it’s not cheap. When I asked the customer assistance challenged worker which envelope would be best for sending a book, she grabbed one off a shelf and pressed it against my chest. And I was told that should I dare include a letter or anything resembling a letter requiring its own separate envelope, I would be charged more. I paid nearly two dollars per envelope and used them for my next few mailings, paying north of ten dollars each for packets to the east coast.

On my next trip, I stood in prayer in the long line, hoping for assistance from one of the two kindly workers. My prayer was not only granted, but several large FREE, padded envelopes with flat rates were gently handed to me. Henceforth, my mail-outs never cost over $6.10.

What is the moral to this tale? Hold out for the right type of help and do your own research first. It doesn’t always pay to rely on experts.

The Two Minute Interview: Author Sandra Dailey

I’m very pleased to welcome Sandra Dailey to tell us about her latest novel, CLOSE ENEMY.

I really like your title, Sandra. What’s your book about?

Sandra: It’s a romantic/suspense about stalking, kidnapping, murder, past tragedies and a baby.

That’s heavy stuff! I’m a big fan of romantic suspense. When is the moment that matters most/turning point in your book?

Sandra: When the villain realizes he also has a stalker intent on destroying him.

Interesting – a villain with a stalker. Where is the setting?

Sandra: Up town Tampa and down town Ybor City, Florida.

Florida sounds like the perfect place for villains, heroes, heroines and romance. How did you come to write this book?

Sandra: My hero was a secondary character in Common Enemy. At one point he had to give an alibi. That’s where my heroine was born.

It’s fun finding the opportunity to flesh out secondary characters. Which character is your fave?

Sandra: I most love creating my villains. Weird, I know.

I agree! Villains are fascinating to create. Why should I (or any reader) read your lovely creation?

Sandra: It’s exciting and sinister with heartbreak, romance and a little humor mixed in.

I love books with a little humor mixed in. Sounds like an exciting read! Thanks so much for joining me today, Sandra!

Bio: Sandra Dailey lives with her husband and mother in a small town in North Florida, far from the maddening crowds. Her children and grandchildren all live close and keep her ridiculously busy and active. Her passions are reading, writing, and crafts. Her addictions are coffee, chocolate, and football. Her aversions are cooking, housework and negative people. She loves to hear from fellow readers and writers, so get in touch.

Buy links:

The Wild Rose Press

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo:

To contact Sandra:

Contact her online:
Website/Blog: http://www.sandradailey.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sandradailey.author
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sdaileyauthor
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/sandradailey
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6551048.Sandra_Dailey
Or send an email to: sandradailey.author@gmail.com