[vc_row 0=””][vc_column 0=””][vc_column_text 0=””]Hello there! Now that the calendar has flipped to September, I thought I might give some updates on my novel’s status, and talk about the process a bit.
Before I do this, however, I want to take a minute and talk about the tragedy of Houston, Texas. Like everyone else, I have watched utterly appalled at the scene of the city’s devastation from Hurricane Harvey. It hurts so much to see this happen and feel like I can’t do anything. Please, if you can spare any donation, Houston needs you. Here is a really good list of ways you can help. I’ve watched these rescues happening, and everyone pitching in however they can to get people and animals to safety. It sends a tremor through me: such bravery and selflessness, such loving-kindness–it’s all there and it’s beautiful and humbling. Houston, I wish you and surrounding areas a healthy recovery. You are loved.
It’s kind of hard to focus on my novel during times like these. But I do want to give you an update. Manuscript editing is complete. It feels strange to type this! The next step involves a different person proofreading the text. This is the final polish for the text itself, before I begin formatting it for publication. It will be a couple of weeks before I receive the proofread manuscript.
Meanwhile, I now have a graphics design team working on the cover. I’m so excited about every aspect of this, because it all came about through friends. My friends will design the font and layout of the cover, and a friend of theirs will make the cover art. I don’t want to reveal too many hints about that right now.
The cover design will take time as well, and so between that and the proofreading, I am pushed into late September before I can begin the nuts and bolts of publishing. At this point, I would not be surprised if the actual release date for the novel occurs in October or November. Hopefully it will be available before the holidays! That is the goal.
During this waiting period, I am seeking available book reviewers. I am also researching how to convert my manuscript to EPUB and MOBI, for ebook publication. Fear not: I will also have print-on-demand versions and some hard copies available.
Now, in every step of this process, from logo design to website design, to beta readers, to working with artists and editors, a picture grows clearer to me. This self-publication process requires cooperation on several levels, and patience and understanding as well. It’s an honor for me to work with anyone interested in my project. I hope doors open for everyone involved at every step.
It might sound cliche, but it really does take a village! And I thank everyone involved.