Dear Friend,
And no, I won’t be discussing running, as in fitness routines. What I was reminded of was the experiments where rats run through mazes to reach a goal, usually a chunk of cheese. While I enjoy cheese immensely, I was thinking about the effort to reach a goal that feels like there are constant obstacles and barriers to completion. And no cheese at the end.
Have you ever felt that a goal you thought you could easily accomplish had become distant? With new roadblocks thrown up you never imagined could happen?
What I’m contending with is the effort to make my books, both past and current, available.
You may have noticed the 13-digit number that’s emblazoned on the back cover of a print book and the inside copyright page of both print and e-books. It’s required for all publishing so your books can be identified. Publishers don’t want the ISBN number that other publisher’s copies have. They want a unique ISBN that’s for them only. And they want a separate ISBN for the e-book, audio book, and any other version!
Thus, the metaphorical “running,” the long stint to develop the book for publishing so readers can read it. Becoming a master organizer and finding a pot of gold in the middle of the maze to pay for the multiple versions of ISBNs are the last pre-publishing hurdles.
And, guess what? The end of the maze leads to the maze of publicity. How to get the book to audiences who want to read my particular genre and type of book. There’s no rule book or authentic approach that guarantees success.
I hope to get through this frustrating process soon, so I can proudly announce The Greatest Thing’s availability. Then, people can read and discuss it. It’s been a labor of love, which is my core topic, after all.
If you like to hear about tropes, the concepts that tell you what the book’s core values are, I can share some: The Greatest Thing strongly incorporates themes of found family, overcoming traumas with the help of loving family and friends, and starting a business. And, of course, since it’s a romance, there are “Happily Ever Afters,” with lots of romance and hurdles along the way.
Although each of my books is a stand-alone, you might want to begin reading the other four books in the series to provide a more intense reading experience. New characters, new love matches, new challenges, and new rewards!
I recommend starting with the first book, Louisa’s Passion, to enjoy the thrill of getting to know the characters from the beginning. Louisa and Will, the main couple, are integral to everything that happens, so they’re still a strong part of every book in the series.
To help me find new school careers and new jobs my characters might consider, please answer the following questions:
What is your dream job? Are you in it now?
Send your answers to me directly at: Shelley@ShelleySommers.com or provide your answer in the Comments box below.
Thank you for participating! May your challenges be met! Enjoy life, including dreaming and reading!
Shelley