Getting out more

Me, Su Bristow and Margaret James

I've sometimes heard authors describing the process of writing and publishing a book as being like having a baby. There's a long period of gestation, then the big day. After that, however much you read and listen to other's, nothing quite prepares you for what happens next.
Fortunately books don't cry in the night or need changing (let's hope not), but there is a great deal of energy required to give your book the best possible start. 
Every author has to promote their book. It doesn't matter if you're with a major publisher or your go down the indie route like I did. A lot of effort is put into social media, which means hours in front of the screen again, but there are also the events and trips out. I've been fortunate enough to be invited to several really enjoyable events. 
Devon Book Club is run by the indefatigable Ian Hobbs. It's aim is to bring together readers online, and he is also very keen to connect readers with authors. Lucky for us! Here I am talking about Secret of the Song at the fantastic picnic he organised at the National Trust's Killerton House. It wasn't a blue day, but it was warm, beautiful and the Eton Mess was very yummy indeed.

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