Recently, I took a huge step forward in my career. I’ve signed with a publicist: Mickey Mikkelson of Creative Edge Publicity.
Why? The business of being an author includes many tasks. Though it’s taken me a while, I think I have a handle on most of them:
- Write the book → Check!
- Hire editors and cover designers → Check!
- Organize beta readers → Check!
- Format the book → Check!
- Upload the book to retailers → Check!
- Track expenses and income → Check!
- Promote the book → Not so much 🙁
Promotion has always been a weak spot. I’ve yet to master finding quality promotional opportunities that are a good match. And I’d rather chew off an arm than make a cold call to a book reviewer, blogger, or podcaster.
I know it makes no sense, especially after all the work I’ve put into the books. I’m proud of The Gift Legacy and want the books to find new audiences. Emelynn Taylor flies—I want my books to fly, too!
While studying business at UBC, one of the core lessons was recognizing your weaknesses and putting a plan in place to address them. I’ve sidestepped my lack of promotion finesse for far too long.
But no longer – I’ve signed with a publicist
And Mickey has kept me hopping since January. He has organized more publicity in a month than I’ve managed in a decade. In fact, Mickey has kept me so busy I’ve not had time for much else this month. If I’m not prepping for a podcast, I’m writing guest blog posts or answering interview questions.
The following are just a sample of the gigs Creative Edge has already organized for me. PLEASE share the links on your own social media and “up vote”, “like”, or mark them as “helpful.” Every little bit helps.
Secret Sky reviewed by Anthony Avina
Author appearance on Minddog TV
Character interview with Emelynn Taylor hosted by J.M. Northrup
Author interview on Urban Lit Magazine
Secret Sky featured on Readers’ Entertainment Magazine
There are more. If you’re interested, you can find all the links on my website’s “featured on” page.
On the writing front
I’ve queried a few literary agents about the new book, Blood Mark, and had some interest, but so far haven’t had an offer. I’m not giving up yet, though. I’m also making progress with Crimson Frost, my short Christmas story. Hopefully, it won’t take me until then to finish it!
And if you still haven’t picked up Secret Sky, the eBook is just $2.99. Get your copy from Kindle with one click right here. And if kindle or eBooks aren’t your preference, click on the bookstore tab for other purchase options (or just click on the covers below).
Inese says
Great news!
There are times when there’s no free moment for anything at all.
It seems the publishing side really eats up abnormal hours and it’s difficult.
Good luck with everything else and, especially, with getting back to writing!
JPMcLean says
Thanks, Inese. The publicist is stretching me, which is as terrifying as it is exciting. I must get another post written to update everyone.
Book Club Mom says
That’s great – congratulations! Now you can use your time for writerly things. 🙂
JPMcLean says
Thanks, Barbara. I feel very fortunate indeed. Looking forward to getting back to my works in progress.
Jasna says
Congratulations, J.P! I think it’s a smart decision. Many authors are not good at promoting their books no matter how good the books are. Some things are better left to professionals.
JPMcLean says
Absolutely! And thanks. Cheers.
Sally Rae says
Wow congratulations JP!! Promoting a book is a huge under taking and I’m so happy to hear you are being guided (pushed?) by Mickey! You go girl!!
JPMcLean says
Thanks, Sally! Believe me, I need the guidance (push!).
Debra Purdy Kong says
That’s fantastic, JP. I haven’t given much thought to hiring a publicist yet, but it certainly is worth more consideration. Let me know how it goes. And I’ll give you likes, etc. as we go. I’m really interested in this new adventure for you.
JPMcLean says
Thanks, Debra. It feels very exciting. I’ll let you know how it goes.