I Need a Break!

I Need a Break!

Someone might tell me, now that I’ve uploaded my book and it’s nearly ready for publication, that the hard work is over. But really, it’s not. As I look at everything I’ve done since finishing the writing of Midnight Splash and handing it over to the best editor I could possibly find, Joann Collins, I feel like the real work has begun.

When it comes to self-publishing, you need to do it all, or find the people who can help you do it all. There’s no publishing house with hundreds of employees that help you every step of the way. It’s you, your computer, and anyone who’s willing to help you along the way. Unfortunately, I couldn’t afford all the experts I would have liked to have had in my corner. But I found the tools and information I needed to step into their shoes and create something that they probably could create in ten minutes.

Up next: marketing, and doing everything I can to get my book in front of those who will want to read it – like you, the person reading this blog post.

But first: a very much well-earned break. The night I uploaded my manuscript to the printer, I went to bed and passed out. The frustrations, hope, and adrenaline all culminated at that moment, followed by a giant sigh of relief and some happy, excited, tired, and no-longer-frustrated tears.

So now I lean on some other tools that I have that make social media interactions easier, so I can take that well-earned break.

After I take that break, let’s keep talking on Facebook!

Current Research: Everything About Publishing

Current Research: Everything About Publishing

Quite literally, my latest research topic has been everything publishing. Writing and publishing this book has put new meaning to the phrase “you don’t know what you don’t know.” I know how to write a fun, interesting story – trust me, you’ll see when Midnight Splash makes its debut on July 14, 2026! I know how to edit. Midnight Splash went through several rounds of self-edits, as well as a professional edit and proofread. Every “i” should be dotted and every “t” crossed. Between myself and my amazing editor, Joann Collins, this book is more than I ever dreamed of.

What I don’t know:

The entire world of publishing. Everything that goes into the front and back of a book before and after the story. That stuff doesn’t just come into being. Like my story, I had to create it myself and make sure it went into the right area.

The front cover, back cover, and even the spine all have to be created by me. The blurb on the back that hooks you into opening the book and reading it? I had to write it. It didn’t magically appear. When you open it, you’ll see chapter title blocks and scene break bars – I had to create those, too. I had to acquire the ISBN number and code on the back cover. And So. Much. More.

Up next? Marketing! This blog, social media posts, reaching out to media sources, libraries, and local bookstores to get my name and book in front of them are all things I need to do on my own.

You all can help me with that, too! If you’re interested in seeing my work on your local shelves, ask for it. Librarians and bookstore management know how to look for it and order it. Recommend it to your friends and family.

Want to see more of what goes into getting a book from your mind to the page to ready to sell? Check out this recent blog post. Let’s talk more on Facebook, too!

Preorder Your Signed Copy of Midnight Splash Today!

Preorder Your Signed Copy of Midnight Splash Today!

Preorder your signed first edition copy of Midnight Splash today!

Follow the link to order directly on the website for delivery to you starting release week of JULY 14, 2026

Order by midnight EST on SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2026

What does your preorder include?

  • A signed, first edition copy of Midnight Splash (personalization available)
  • An official Midnight Splash bookmark
  • A handwritten thank you note from the author