By Gail Waterhouse.
It’s an exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) time.
I’ve officially sent off my manuscript to a publishing house that specialises in the self publishing. It’s a big step, and now… I wait.
Patience has never been one of my strengths. If I had my way, the book would be published tomorrow, complete with a launch party, audiobook, and matching merch! But I also know that these things take time. So, I’m doing my best to stay grounded and focused on what I can control.
Right now, I’m keeping busy by diving headfirst into Book Two of my series:
Blood Becoming: The Veil Between Blood and Beast.
The story is already pulling me in deeper. The stakes are higher, the mysteries more tangled, and the characters… well, let’s just say they’re not making life easy for me (or each other). Writing the second book while the first one is out of my hands is actually helping a lot, it reminds me why I started this journey in the first place. Because I love building worlds, solving dark puzzles, and exploring the line between human and something else.
Alongside writing, I’m also working on getting this website up and running – my little corner of the internet where I can share updates, behind-the-scenes thoughts, and all things book-related. Once that’s in a good place, I’ll be diving into the world of social media.
Yes, the plan is to hit BookTok, Instagram, and Facebook, not just to promote the book, but to connect with readers, writers, and anyone who’s into moody thrillers with a paranormal edge. It’s all new to me, but I’m ready to give it a proper go.
Recently, I also had a very productive online meeting with a Hybrid Publisher who talked me through how to self-publish my first novel and organise both eBooks and audiobooks. It was incredibly enlightening. For the first time, I started to really see the other path clearly, and I have actively explored both the traditional and self-publishing routes.
Each has its pros and cons, of course. Traditional publishing offers reach and credibility, but comes with a long timeline and a fair bit of waiting. Self-publishing is faster and gives me control, but it also means wearing a lot of hats. Although, I do like to be more in control, so becoming an indie author is probably the better option for me, for now. Still, I’m open to both, and determined to get this story out there in the best way possible.
Because honestly, I just want this book in readers’ hands.
Thanks for following along. The journey is just getting started, and I’m excited (and slightly impatient) to see where it goes next.
Best wishes,
Gail
