I've got some pretty big news, and I can't keep it under wraps any longer. I have a book contract for my debut YA novel, THE PACKING HOUSE. It's going to be a published book, maybe even this year, 2015. My publisher is Booktrope, a hybrid publisher.
Right now, I'm busy assembling my team of professionals to help me get my book from a manuscript to a final, polished, and published book. I've got an editor, who has already given me edits on chapter one, the same chapter that is posted as an excerpt via the tabs at the top of the page. I've got a proof reader, who will read through once I've done final edits on the book from my editor's notes. Once that step is done and I've made sure all grammatical edits are done, I'll turn in the book for interior layout and design, while the cover artist does amazing things with my cover.
I'll also be working with my book manager and marketing manager to help get The Packing House ready for book launch. This will include a cover reveal, a blog tour full of interviews, giveaways, and fun galore. Next, I've got some behind-the-scenes stuff in the works that will truly be unique to the launch of this book.
What's amazing to me is that through this whole process, I'll have a published book at the end of it all, and a second book to complete the series. I've even got a tentative title for it, but maybe I'll do a blog post on possibilities and let you help me name book 2.
Along the way, I'll post updates about some plans that will be happening with the publication of this book, for those of you who pick up a copy, so you'll know what happens when you buy one. I welcome your input regarding this process, and I will do my best to respond to your comments and questions.
I must tell you, though, I am working full time in my day job, have a wife and four boys who keep me plenty busy, and I'm a graduate school student working on my master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. So, while the news of my book being published is thrilling, I'm not so keen on how the timing of it all is working out. But, I'll figure it out. I'm not ever going to complain about working on my book. Because, not everyone gets to have a published book. I'm humbled and grateful and honored to have been trusted with the task of sharing these stories, and I truly hope they bless you as you read these stories that came from my heart.
I am also eagerly anticipating when I get to thank every person who helped me along the journey from the first draft to now, and beyond, when it's finally born and out there for all of you to read. I will remember this when I get bad reviews, and (hopefully) good reviews. I will marvel at the magic that happens when a book isn't the author's property anymore, it's the property of the readers. They make it come alive. And, if I can achieve that, I'll be profoundly grateful.
