I just published a new book! Huzzah!
More on that in a minute…
Before we talk about Shelta’s Songbook, let me tell you how different it’s been publishing in 2020, compared to 2017, when I released Wild Horse Heart under the author name Katrina Ariel. Wild Horse Heart is a contemporary romantic suspense set in the film industry, and has received great reviews from readers. But wow did I ever stress myself out during the publishing process back then!
I’ve learned a lot from mistakes (and successes) in the past, and 2020 has prompted me to appreciate the perspective gained from 42 years in this beautiful, chaotic world.
Let me share a few gems self-publishing has taught me.
Lesson #1: Panic Attacks Suck
The last time I published, I put so much pressure on myself I triggered a panic attack bad enough that I crawled into my kids’ room way past midnight to hold their hands in an attempt to calm myself down. Yes, I tried other coping techniques before resorting to that, but I needed their snuggly, sleeping serenity.
I was so afraid of what people would think about my book, and that there were things I could’ve done better, and…
You know what I’ve realized? Most people don’t even care.
Lesson #2: Ease up, eh?
This time, I’m doing things differently. Partially thanks to 2020 and partially thanks to #momlife, I have considerably less fucks to give, which is actually quite helpful. I didn’t set my launch date until the book was ready, and if something hasn’t gone the way I wanted it to, I’ve rolled with it instead of fighting the flow.
For example, the paperback version of Shelta’s Songbook is GORGEOUSLY illustrated with artwork by Glazkova Irina (nutriaaa), from Russia. I had a blast doing the layout for the paperback. Here’s a screenshot of my design process using Affinity Publisher.
Even with a background in graphic design, I couldn’t manage to get the images to play nice across devices in the eBook version. Instead of pulling my hair out, I decided it was good enough to have a graceful template for the eBook.
So the eBook doesn’t have illustrations? It still has beautiful writing, and anyone who buys the paperback gets a major bonus!
Speaking of, never underestimate how long it might take to get paperback proofs. Shelta’s Songbook is currently available as a paperback on Amazon, and will soon be available via indie bookstores and all major retailers when I approve the Ingram Spark copy. Whenever it gets here…
In a sea of details, one thing at a time works wonders.
If I insist on perfectionism, I’ll never finish anything, so I’ll get it as good as I’m able, with what I know right now, and let go of the things I can’t control.
Lesson #3: Be proud of your accomplishments.
Rest is good. To avoid burn out, it’s imperative to do other things.
It’s also good to celebrate wins. I mean, look at this cover! It’s so gorgeous! Big shout out to cover designer Alexandra Purtan for her artistic expertise and professionalism. She was fantastic to work with on this.
Even though I’ve spent a lot of time publishing Shelta’s Songbook and getting the next book, Falling Through the Weaving, up for pre-order, I’ve gone to sleep early, slept in (yes, sleep is a theme here), spent quality time with my family, and gone for hikes in the forest.
Of course, I’ve also kept up with new episodes of The Mandalorian. That’s some stellar storytelling right there. We’ll call it writing research, yes?
This is the way.
Give me ALL the Mandalorian!
Maybe 42 is my magic year, where Life, the Universe, and Everything have come into perspective and I’ve learned to let my perfectionism slide a bit, and embrace the imperfect, organic nature of things. Whatever it is, I’m proud of myself for not sweating the small stuff.
And, without further ado… THE BOOK!
This collection of poetry and short stories set in a fantasy world comes complete with love notes from an immortal.
Shelta’s Songbook opens the universe of the World Tree Chronicles, paving the way for two series of novels: Roots and Stars and Dragons and Gods.
As Shelta tumbles through time, she leaves notebooks and sketches behind. The Keeper of Lost Souls and Stories slips Shelta’s creations through the World Tree into his secret collection.
Sometimes, he listens through the tapestry when she sings. Sometimes, he transcribes her words. He cannot help himself. Her music sets his immortal soul aflame.
Here’s a peek into the illustrated paperback version of Shelta’s Songbook. I hope you enjoy it! 💖
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
- Published a book in 2017. Freaked out.
- Learned things: Rest. Breathe. Watch Mandalorian.
- Published a book in 2020. Didn’t freak out.
- YAY!
- The book is awesome!
- Please buy the book!
- Thank you!
Animated cover by Morgan Wright.
