Every release is different. When you’re an indie author you have a lot of leg work to do. I love and hate it at times. There are days where my mantra is, “I need to get an agent.”

Imagine me doing that in my best, “I’m too old for this shit” Danny Glover voice.

But in the midst of gearing up for my May 23rd release, I have met a number of stellar reviews already. “The Golden Rule,” is a beautifully illustrated children’s picture book with a universal message that promotes acceptance and diversity. (This is kind of my thing-it’s been a working theme in many of my pieces)

If any reviewers are interested in receiving a free copy of my latest book baby in exchange for an honest review, let me know. And for anyone who is just starting out in the industry and needs some review help, there are numerous online sources that list reviewers by genre.

But it shouldn’t stop there. Contact podcasts, youtube book reviewers, local news sources, bookstores, and keep up with social media. I mean no writer wants to sound like a car salesman, but there is no harm in reaching out to others to spread the word. Some people will respond right away, others take longer, and about half or more won’t even do that.

This is a tough industry. The market is flooooooded. I’ve said it again and again. Make sure your work is polished and unique enough to stand out, but also get out there and let people know it exists.

We had a formatting snafu with “The Golden Rule” and I’ve been in crazy mode for a bit now, but that’s all part of the job. Everything has it’s downfall. If you really want it, you’ll do what you need to to keep going.

Professional book reviewers are also a huge help but some charge. The Midwest Book Review and Booklist online are a couple of good ones to note. Watch out for scams but don’t be stingy.

Set a budget and use it wisely.

I’m just about ready to pee myself since this book will be in hardcover. That’s HUGE! (At least for me and my cute little body of work). Getting to this point hasn’t been easy and I still have a lot of work to do, but when you believe in your work and the spirit of the writing, that’s all that matters.