Launch Time
In about a week THE PAWNS launches, and the funny thing is, I’m excited but not nervous because I feel I’ve done everything I can do. Here’s a last minute peek at what’s in motion.
An advance (not final) ebook has been up on NetGalley for a few months, and it’s been listed as Reader Recommended, which exceeds the expectations I had diving into that competitive, crowded pool of upcoming releases. And I discovered the joy of scrolling through the incredible covers that ebb and flow and update daily. They’re a testament to the creativity of entire book community: authors, editors, designers, marketers.
I ordered advance copies from Ingram, and had time to squeeze out one last edit. I caught three typos, and streamlined some prose and dialog according to feedback gleaned from some reviews. The advance review process really helped me get the manuscript to the best place I am able, and I’m proud of what’s going to launch Friday, May 13th. The final is actually a few hundred words longer than earlier versions; the pace of the novel is fast enough that I amplified a few spots to slow things down.
Some special surprises that I’m thrilled about: Valerie of Cats Luv Coffee Book Reviews chose THE PAWNS as one of seven anticipated May 2022 Horror Releases. And Emma Washer of Emma’s Book Nook gave THE PAWNS a thorough 4- Star feature on her book review blog.
A Goodreads Giveaway has more than 500 requests for a Kindle edition of the Pawns, and 20 will go out on launch day. I hope winners like it want to review it. Goodreads reviewers are tough cookies.
I have email promotions starting Friday with the Fussy Librarian, Book Sends, Bargain Booksy, and Written Word Media’s Reader Reach. THE PAWNS special pre-order price of $2.99 will remain in effect on the Kindle edition through Sunday, May 15.
Lastly, I’m working with a publicist, BookTrib, to help me reach readers though social media posts and their newsletter.
In a week I’ll be in Denver for StokerCon, and I’m excited to finally meet and rub shoulders with other authors after two years of zoom-only interactions. THE PAWNS launches while I’m there, so at least I’ll have a talking point in the hotel bar. 😂 Looking forward to workshops, readings, and fun with members of The Horror Writers Association at their annual conference.
