Emily March | Childbirth Pains... My New Book

March 22, 2011

Dear Readers,

I'm giving birth to a new baby today. Its name is HUMMINGBIRD LAKE it is the second book of my new Eternity Springs series. This baby was conceived around fire pit with some writer friends over two years ago, and I carried it for six long months. Now, with older sibling ANGEL'S REST a month old, it's time for the new offspring to join the family.

Right now I'm in the transition stage of labor. The hard stage. The one that makes a girl want to glare at her keyboard and declare "I'm never touching you again!"

That's because now it's time for me to talk about the book.

I'm supposed to engage readers' interest so they will go out and buy it. The problem is that I find this part of the job more painful than watching my beloved Texas Aggies lose in the first round of this year's March Madness. They tell us to come up with a one sentence sales pitch, a high concept, an elevator sales pitch. Yeah, right. I spent 400 manuscript pages telling this story, and I'm supposed to condense it down to a sentence? Aargh!

Sage watched a tall man dressed in jeans and a blue chambray shirt make his way forward. From her position in the front of the crowd, she noted his long, lean build, wide shoulders, and thick, wavy black hair. When he turned to face the crowd, she saw that he had blue eyes. Striking blue eyes, the color of Hummingbird Lake in summer. His face was a study of sculpted angles and masculine planes that the artist in her itched to sketch. In a tone just shy of miffed, she observed, "So, that's the great Colt Rafferty, hmm?"

Ali looked at her friend in surprise. "You have a problem with him?"

Sage shrugged. "I've never met the man."

Lori Reese sighed. "Dr. Rafferty is the reason I decided to go to college. I'm hoping all my professors look like him."

Sarah slung an arm around her daughter's shoulders and said, "If all your professors look like Colt Rafferty, I'm going to enroll in classes myself."

Leaning forward, Sarah added to Ali, "Sage has had a stick up her butt about Colt ever since one of his carvings beat one of her paintings for blue ribbon at the summer arts festival last month."

There. My little hint of things to come. Now, if I didn't have such an attitude about talking about my work, I could use this blog space to tell you more about Sage and Colt and Eternity Springs. But remember that I'm in labor to birth this baby and this stage is AGONY. It makes me cranky. It makes me feel inadequate. It doesn't matter that I think the story is really good and reviewers so far have liked it. (Publishers Weekly gave it a starred review!) I don't care that it has the most gorgeous cover art I've ever had on a book. So what if the winner of an advanced reading copy contest just posted this on my Facebook page:

"HUMMINGBIRD LAKE landed in my mailbox on Friday. I had to finish it this morning before my husband and I went skiing..... what a wonderful book!!!! Your hero's are so drool worthy. I haven't cried while reading a book in a long time. Thanks for writing such special characters. Another touching story!"

All of the above are wonderful things, and you'd think I'd find them reassuring, but no. I'm in the end stage of labor. I'm now in full-blown author paranoia!

AP, as it's known in my house is that psychotic behavior that precedes a book release and lasts anywhere from a week to a month. Will it sell, will readers like it, love it, hate it, talk about it? Will reader reviews make me fly or want to eat a whole pan of brownies? With nuts.

While in the clutches of AP, I'll google my name and the title. I'll check Amazon numbers and B&N numbers and Goodreads ratings way more often than is healthy for my blood pressure numbers. And, I'll suffer this malady while trying to keep my mind on the book I'm writing, the copy-edits for the book I have written, and the proposal for the book I'm going to write next.

It's all about time. Like everyone else these days, I feel like I don't have enough time to stop and sneeze-and in the middle of spring hay-fever season, that's a problem! Authors feel pressure-both internal and external-to self-promote. Now, some parts of the whole promotion thing are fun for me. I enjoy booksignings because I usually get to talk books and that's always a joy. I love interacting with readers on my Facebook Fan Page: facebook.com/emilymarchbooks But I find it so hard to talk about my stories-at least at this stage of the game.

It also makes me a little crazy to think about all the other blog opportunities I missed because I'd rather cut out my own kidney than talk about my book at this point in the process. I was a marketing major in college. Once upon a time I sold advertising for a living. I know about advertising campaigns and promotion plans. I know that it's important to get the word out about HUMMINGBIRD LAKE. So, why can't I sit here and write a wonderful blog that will make you rush to the bookstore today and buy my book?

Maybe because in my heart of hearts, I'm still a Southern girl who was taught from the cradle not to brag or talk about myself and I find doing so distasteful. Or, maybe I simply have too much on my plate and I can't find time to self-promote AND get my books written and delivered on time. Or, maybe I'm just lazy. Or stressed. Or lazily stressed.

Whatever the reason, this is my question to you as I bear down to bring HUMMINGBIRD LAKE into the world. Do you ever buy a book based on author self-promotion? If so, what sort of promotion was it? What works?

See, HEARTACHE FALLS comes out in another four weeks. Maybe by then . . .

Emily March

Comment to win the first book in the trilogy, ANGEL'S REST

ANGEL'S REST February

HUMMINGBIRD LAKE March 22

HEARTACHE FALLS April 27

Comments

51 comments posted.

Re: Emily March | Childbirth Pains... My New Book

Congrats on the new baby! I must tell you that your self-promotion on this blog tour has worked on me! The blurbs and excerpts have "sold" me on this series. :-)
(Cheryl Castings 11:36am March 22, 2011)

Well, I think you've done a great job with your 'teaser' selection!! I'm really looking forward to reading the book!!
(Cate Sparks 11:48am March 22, 2011)

The cover has to catch my eye then I always read the excerpt.
Looks like a great read!
Thanks
(Julie Parrish 11:58am March 22, 2011)

Congrats on your new book!!! I think your 2nd book will promote itself because of the first one in the series. I can't wait to read it.
(Connie Brand 11:59am March 22, 2011)

I've always felt that writing is one of the hardest jobs out there - you write and rewrite and still have doubts if its the best you can do! And that is from my years of experience of editing and writing (and rewriting) items for my church's bulletins and newsletters! How I envy and cheer all you writers who do such a good job at your jobs!
(Marguerite Guinn 12:01pm March 22, 2011)

I love the cover of your book. I know I will enjoy reading it.
(Kathleen Bianchi 12:07pm March 22, 2011)

Look forward to seeing your book and reading it.
(Pam Alderson 12:07pm March 22, 2011)

I go crazy waiting for the second book as soon as I put down the first one that
has kept me enthralled and reading 'til it was done. Just tell me the next in the
series is coming and I will hold my breath 'til I have it in my hands. When the
first is so good no promotion other than a firm release date is enough for me.
(Sandra Spilecki 12:08pm March 22, 2011)

If I'm on an email list for the author, I look at the book carefully and see if it "speaks" to me.
(Alyson Widen 12:19pm March 22, 2011)

Sorry for the weird formatting on this. I've asked them to fix all those question marks that should be apostrophes and quotes. Arrgh!
(Emily March 12:23pm March 22, 2011)

I am just now starting Angel's Rest and certainly looking forward to Hummingbird Lake.
Blessings,
Marjorie
(Marjorie Carmony 12:52pm March 22, 2011)

Yeah, I would lvoe to win he first book and then I can move onto the other 2 in the trilogy. I have never bought on self promotion, but I have just started with the blogs and reading from the artists words.
(Debra Simning-Chapman 1:04pm March 22, 2011)

I just tried to connect with your Facebook link and it showed as "expired". Help!
(Jeanne Miro 1:07pm March 22, 2011)

Emily - Sorry. I always click the wrong button. Just wanted to say that I really want to find out more about your books. They sound fascinating and I want to find out more about them. I love Facebook because it let's me find out more about authors I haven't known about before.

Your book sounds like something I'd really love to read. I agree that new books are like new babies - they must be pampered and loved with lots of attention to the "small" details! Good luck with fabulous sales.
(Jeanne Miro 1:10pm March 22, 2011)

Jeanne, I don't know why the link from Fresh Fiction won't work. It adds "target" to the url. If you'll type it in directly, it will work. The page is Emily March Books, all one word. Please, find me!!! I love interacting with rea
ders on FB, too.
(Emily March 1:16pm March 22, 2011)

Self promotion,is alright,I like checking out the autor's homepage. Mostly when I read a novel and I like that autor's style, I will continue with that autor or someone similar. Will also check out other fiction sites.
(Deb Pelletier 1:41pm March 22, 2011)

Love blogs like this one... I have found so many new authors and books to read by reading posts like this one promoting a new release or series. Wishing you success with this trilogy!
(Colleen Conklin 2:02pm March 22, 2011)

I really enjoyed your post and your excerpt.

In answer to your question, I'm ok with self-promotion and am willing to
pick up an author's book if he/she relies on this form of marketing. BUT, I
do have other criteria such as a book's premise, writing style, and cover.

If I am interested, I will sign up for the author's newsletter. I'm off to
subscribe to yours.
(Mona Garg 2:25pm March 22, 2011)

Now I'm wondering why I've never read one of your books. This one sounds like a winner.
(Anna Speed 2:42pm March 22, 2011)

I've never bought a book on author self-promotion because I am a recent participant to the blogging part of the site. I have to say, though, that if your book is half as beautiful as the cover is, I'm going to thoroughly enjoy it. Having to hawk your book has to be a hard thing to do, but I'm sure that you won't have a hard time with this story. Everyone loves an old-fashioned love story, and Spring is the perfect time to release it! Congratulations!!
(Peggy Roberson 2:59pm March 22, 2011)

Hummingbird Lake is already on my Kindle Wish List! This sounds like a really fun read! I don't read a lot of novels that are just roamnce...but i do love romance that has some suspense or that is heart warming. This book looks like it will be right up my alley!
(Sandy Fielder 3:08pm March 22, 2011)

I'm looking forward to reading your books Emily. Congratulations on a job well done!!
(Rosemary Simm 3:22pm March 22, 2011)

I am so excited about this new series. I work at the local library in our community and we have placed it on our purchase list. I'm sure we will be recommending this book to a lot of our patrons, especially the ones that enjoys reading series. Thanks for writing and I hope I win. Take care.
(Renee Howell 4:45pm March 22, 2011)

I have never bought a book based on an author's self promotion. I had my favorite authors and generally followed them. I recently retired and now have the time to research author websites, read their newsletters and blogs - learning so much. So, being more exposed to my favorite authors (and others), I may now buy a book based on an author's self promotion.

I'm thinking that, regardless of the reader's review, you should go for the pan of brownies. With nuts. They're good for all occasions, not just to lift the spirits!

Congratulations on Hummingbird Lake's birth; hope you have tons of success. Looking forward to reading this series. And, I think that your newsletter emails are effective!!
(Karen Cherubino 4:56pm March 22, 2011)

Reading blogs do bring new books to my notice. "Hearing" what the author says about the book & how it is said make a difference to me. Covers also can give a sense of the book. I like all these elements in your new book and would like to read it.
(r w 4:57pm March 22, 2011)

I love the cover of your new book...I can't wait to read it.
(Robin McKay 5:00pm March 22, 2011)

Congratulations on your new book---I think the cover is just beautiful---and I often let the cover be the final decider when I'm deciding to buy a book.
(Sue Farrell 5:05pm March 22, 2011)

A new book and a new baby, a great combination for you! Congrats!
(Brenda Rupp 5:21pm March 22, 2011)

The book sounds awesome and congrats!!

Lisa B
(Lisa Boggs 5:29pm March 22, 2011)

I have bought books reading because I read a blog post telling me about the book, the characters and providing me with a short excerpt.
(Maureen Emmons 6:05pm March 22, 2011)

Congratulations and all the best of success and happiness. Your books are memorable.
(Sharon Berger 6:11pm March 22, 2011)

Cute little guy you've got there!
No, I usually don't buy books by their cover.I read the blurb and the ending and that's how I do my buying.
(Diane Sadler 6:50pm March 22, 2011)

I absolutely love all your covers & of course the contents inside. I'm looking forward to reading HUMMINGBIRD LAKE.
(Mary Preston 6:55pm March 22, 2011)

Gotta love a fellow Aggie. I'm class of 80. I too mourn their lose. Can't wait to check out your series. Cheer for the women to win....
(Maude Allen 7:05pm March 22, 2011)

I think all of the covers are beautiful. And While I haven't heard of the series before, I'll be picking them up now.
(Rachel G 7:20pm March 22, 2011)

A delightful novel as usual , I am sure :) Keep the awesome writings coming.
(Melisa Clark 7:35pm March 22, 2011)

Congrats on your new baby !!!
I have bought a book based on an author's self promotion because I like author's style or the book's cover. I'm looking forward to read your books.
(Dinda Lestarini 8:01pm March 22, 2011)

I love your books. Thanks for all the hard work, for my entertainment
(Kathleen Todd 8:56pm March 22, 2011)

Sounds like an awesome new series - can't wait to read each & every one!!!
(QuenKne M 9:02pm March 22, 2011)

Hullabaloo Caneck Caneck. That's for you, Maude. :)

I agree with those of you who commented on the cover. I've never had such a beautiful one before. The first time I saw all these covers I gasped aloud. It was a good gasp--I've done the bad one before, too. :)

Thanks for the encouraging words!
(Emily March 9:12pm March 22, 2011)

I usually buy the book based on the cover, then the blurb, and flipping through the book to see if the story catches my attention. If the book is really good, I usually come back to any books by author.
(Kai Wong 9:14pm March 22, 2011)

Love your covers! Definitely attention grabbing! Emily, you
are a new author for me--one that I intend on following and
reading everything I can get my hands on!
(Laura Henderson 9:17pm March 22, 2011)

I love a series and always have to start at the beginning. Congrats on your achievement of getting the books written!
(Diane Sallans 9:17pm March 22, 2011)

Love the cover and Congratulations! Looking forward to reading this series.
(Teresa Ward 10:07pm March 22, 2011)

I admit that I have not read one of your books. But I love reading books in series,these sounds so interesting and I love the covers of the series. Thank you for giving me a chance to win it.
(Linda Hall 11:20pm March 22, 2011)

This promotion is working for me! I am going to run out and get all your books!
(Robin Daily 11:57pm March 22, 2011)

Congrats on the new baby!
BTW I wouldn't know how to condense 400 pages into two sentences either, hahaha! If all you mean to say can be said in two sentences than why write a book? Sooo ... people should just read the book and not get hooked up on a short blurb.
(Birgit Lehner 3:38am March 23, 2011)

This sounds like a very enjoyable book--and series. I wish you lots of success with them as well as all of your other endeavors.
(Sigrun Schulz 5:05am March 23, 2011)

Love your books! Congrats on the new baby!
(Sherie Lagarde 9:42am March 23, 2011)

Thank you for your post, Emily. The "Hummingbird Lake" cover art is beautiful! Who created it?

An author's self-promotion alone has caused me to buy a book twice. That's all, twice. I typically rely on my tastes and interests when selecting reading material. I'm also influenced by whatever mood I'm in.

Advertising and promotion can call my attention to a title. But it won't persuade me to buy it. I must do that job myself.

Good luck with your new release!
(Mary Anne Landers 4:54pm March 23, 2011)

Congratulations on the new book. This book sounds so good. Can't wait to read it.
(Diane Castiglione 2:21pm March 24, 2011)

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