Road to Publication: Never Never Never Give Up!

You know how I keep telling you to never give up? To keep working hard and pursuing your dreams?

I have more proof (and exciting news) that dreams can come true!

Earlier in the year, I announced my first book deal with Astraea Press for my young adult historical novel Yakimali’s Gift.

I recently signed another book contract with Beau Coup Publishing for my middle grade paranormal novel The Castle Blues Quake.

I had submitted the story to another publisher, received a contract to look over as well as an author questionnaire to fill out. I felt pretty confident that we were going to make a deal, and then, unfortunately, it fell through.

Then I learned about Beau Coup Publishing from a member of a LinkedIn writer’s group I belong to. I talked to a couple of authors who had signed with Beau Coup, and they gave glowing reports, so I decided to submit, as their submission guidelines request, the synopsis and full manuscript of The Castle Blues Quake.

I heard back fairly quickly from the publisher that she enjoyed the story (luckily, she loves ghost stories!) and that she wanted to talk. I was excited to say the least, and a little nervous about the phone call. But after the conversation, and her description of the company and how they support their authors, among other things, I knew I wanted to work with her and Beau Coup.

The contract was fairly straight-forward. (By now, I have a pretty good understanding of book contracts!) I asked to have a few things clarified, and then happily signed.

My manuscript is currently around 40,000 words. They asked me to add another 10,000 words, so that’s what I’m working on now.

I’ll be posting every Wednesday to discuss my progress with this and with Yakimali’s Gift, as I continue down my Road to Publication. I’d love to hear your thoughts, and I’ll try to answer any questions you have about the publication process.

And please tell me any stories you might have about the pursuit of your own dreams!