The Writing Process - Part 4

Publication and beyond

Once the completed manuscript is sent off, there are other issues to be resolved such as the final title and cover design. I am consulted about this, which is nice, although several others have input too.

Once these matters are resolved, ‘bound proofs’ are created (which look like the final book except they are not for sale and are still subject to change). These are distributed to early reviewers for endorsements. I am always very grateful to fellow writers who take the time to read and comment on my book, and try to do the same for others when I’m asked as I know how much it helps.

The book then goes up on ‘Net Galley,’ a site for early reviews and I start to get a sense of how well the book will go down.

The publicist sends copies out to magazines and radio stations, and it’s always exciting to see these reviews come in too.

Finally the book is published – and if there isn’t a pandemic, I try to hold a launch which is a great opportunity to celebrate with friends and family and also thank people who have helped along the way.

 Then I find myself in a frenzy of checking Amazon, Goodreads and Author Central to see how the book is doing. Usually the publisher organises a ‘book bub,’ a special promotion which can really help promote ratings. It’s exciting to see the book racing up the charts and, if I’m lucky, gaining an orange ‘best seller’ sticker.

From time to time my editor will update me with sales figures, but it can take a few years to get an accurate picture of how successful a book has been.

Then it’s time to start all over again with the next book.