One Writer’s Publishing Journey

Hi Followers and new Discoverers,

If you’re an author, and any anything like me, you wonder how books come to life and whether they were created with careful planning or by discovery along the way. Besides that, once the story is complete, which path will the author take?Will the novel be completely self-published, hybrid published, or will the author choose to shop it around?

My first two books I hybrid published, often referred to as vanity. I was a brand new author and had no idea where to start with querying, and honestly, I just really, really wanted to see my book in print and have it be available to buy. What I didn’t know was how to market it or even where to begin what publicity, and I figured if the companies I chose to publish with were featured in Writer’s Digest, they must be a solid option, right?

When my third book, a psychological suspense tale, “Yellow Slicker” was done, I decided to query smaller, independent publishers. I did my research, wrote my rough query letter, back cover blurb, long synopsis, short synopsis, and outline. I made a list of fifteen solid possibilities, followed their submission guidelines, and sent off a batch of five. The first rejection had me doubting having the nerve to call myself a writer. No one was ever going to publish me, blah, blah, blah.

Just as I was gearing up to send out a second batch of five queries, I got an offer. Yippee! I was over the moon and ready to accept it automatically. While awaiting the contract, I received a second offer! What?! I ultimately went with the second offer and it was the best possible choice for my thriller. Thank you Green Avenue Books! They also, republished my second book, “The Needle’s Eye,” a YA fantasy.❤️ Green Avenue Books has been a fantastic decision!

So, after writing women’s fiction, YA fantasy, and a thriller, I wrote a cozy mystery with plans for a series. I’ve always loved mysteries and have been wanting to write one in a traditional style for a long time. The story brought together so many things I love: the California coast, a rustic inn, quaint village, resident ghost and deep friendship. And of course a mystery to solve. Since Green Avenue Books is focused on fantasy, romance, and thriller, I once again decided to query small publishers specifically focused on mystery. One of the first that caught my attention was Secret Staircase. The name is so perfectly cozy mystery and gave me all the Nancy Drew vibes of my childhood. Plus, the thought of joining the ranks of all the successful authors already with them was my greatest wish.

That wish came true! My novella, a prequel to the series is available now. The cover is PERFECT and Secret Staircase has an amazing and supportive team. I know much of publishing is timing and luck and I will forever be grateful that two incredible independent publishers chose my books.

Thanks for reading.

I’d love to hear about your publishing journey. And if you are just beginning the process, don’t give up. The reward is sooooo worth it.

Happy Writing,

Deanna

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