Things I Learned from My First Book Signing

I had my first book signing, ya’ll! Now, I’ve been to more than a few signings for my favorite authors but it’s different when you’re on the other side of the table.

I didn’t know what to expect.  Would anyone show up?

I was nervous. What do I say if they show up?

I was excited. Oh my God, I can’t believe this is happening!!

And it turned out great. It was a big crowd and I sold more books than I thought I would. Here’s what I learned from the experience:

  1. Invest in a tablecloth. At the last minute I thought about the table covering and bought one from Dollar General. It got the job done but next time I want a more professional look.
  2. Pre-sign books.  It will save time.
  3. Take more pictures. I tried to do this myself and missed some good shots because I was talking with people. I might have to recruit a family member as my photographer.
  4. Pass out cards and bookmarks to everyone that walks by. They may not be a book reader but I bet they know one.
  5. Do a better job getting the notice out. Don’t rely solely on social media.
  6. Invest in bags. It’s another good way to advertise.
  7. Have fun!

The last one is the most important. I definitely had fun and meet some wonderful people.

 

June 19th – World Sickle Cell Day

 

No copyright infringement is intended

Today is World Sickle Cell Day.  This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 in order to increase awareness about sickle-cell disease.

In my book, Moment of Truth, a character has the disease. I did extensive research and interviewed someone with the disease. I hope I did it justice.

Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited, genetic and potentially fatal disease.  About 80% of people with the disease are African-Americans.  The only known cure is a blood marrow or stem cell transplant.

A person with sickle-cell anemia suffers from anemia due to the abnormal shaped red blood cells.  These “sickle” shaped cells get stuck in the small blood vessels and cause blockage.  Blood vessels and body organs cannot get oxygen which leads to health problems like severe pain, organ damage or failure, severe infections, stroke, headache, liver problems, heart problems and more.

To learn more, you can start here: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/index.html

Do you know anyone that suffers from this disease?

Bestselling List

Guess who made their very first bestselling list. Take a guess. Yeah, that’s right. Me.

Number 9, ya’ll.  I’m beyond excited and motivated to get the next book out there.  Thanks to everyone that purchased a copy.

#NationalBestseller #AALBC #NKPP #mdrayfordwrites

Book Photoshoot

Check out the beautiful pictures taken by Jason Frost of @rootbeerphoto

 

 

Smashwords Promotion

Beginning today through April 16th, Moment of Truth is available via Smashwords for 75% off the ebook price.  That’s a savings of over $2.00.  To take advantage of this special pricing, go to Smashwords.com and enter coupon code: ML78V

Thanks in advance.  And as always, please leave a review.

Virtual Book Tour Links – Revised Cover

Revised Cover – Same Great Story
Original Cover

 

 

 

 

I revised the cover after the virtual book tour was announced.  Want to hear me talk about it?  Visit any of these links below:

 

 

Nothing But Books http://pauletteharper.blogspot.com/

Reviews by Crystal           http://reviewsbycacb.blogspot.com

Arlena’s Book Reviews    http://arlenasbookreviews.blogspot.com

Perfect Chaos    http://sdwperfectchaos.blogspot.com

Rainy Day Reviews           https://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/

Keep Calm and Write On              www.kristyfgillespie.com

Lynn’s Romance Enthusiasm        http://lynnromanceenthusiast.blogspot.com

Mello & June, It’s a Book Thang! https://mellojune.com

Maureen’s Musings         http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com

Adrienne Thompson Writes         http://authoradriennethompson.blogspot.com/

Room with Books             https://roomwithbooks.com

Books for Book Lovers    www.kimpayne.wordpress.com

Harper’s Court   https://harperscourt77.blogspot.com/

Hope. Dreams. Life… Love           http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.com

The bookworm lodge      www.thebookwormlodge.com

Write Stuff          www.thewritestuffradio.wordpress.com

Loves Great Reads           https://lovesgreatreadsblog.wordpress.com

LBAS Book Blog http://www.lovebitesandsilk.co.uk

Sheena Binkley https://sheenabinkley.com/

J.L. Campbell      www.joylcampbell.com

Beach Bound Books        https://www.beachboundbooks.com/blogging-about-books

The Pen and the Needle https://thepenandtheneedle.blogspot.com

All Write RVA     https://allwriterva.org

Hope, Dreams, Life, Love http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.com

I’m looking forward to connecting with you in these virtual streets!

Virtual Book Tour

Moment of Truth’s Virtual Book Tour starts today – March 22, 2018!

Hosted by WNL Virtual Book Tours

http://wnlbooktours.com/fiction-authors-book-blast/

Paperbacks are Here!

Isn’t it Lovely?!

 

I’ve had a few readers ask about paperback copies. I’m happy to announce that they are now available from your retailer of choice.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my dream. There is more to come.

First Radio Interview

Photo by Matt Botsford on Unsplash

I had my first author interview with Kimberly Kaye at WFKX 96 KIK FM radio in Jacksonville, Tennessee.  I am the “Author of the Week.”

Me? Me.

It was all a dream and I am thankful for being able to live it today.  Kimberly is an excellent interviewer and puts you at ease immediately.  We’re best friends now!

I’m grateful for the opportunity.  Have a listen to the interview below:

Now it’s back to working on this next book.  I have a series to create.

Sidenote:  Did I mention the ebook for “Moment of Truth” is available for FREE on Amazon right now?

Publishing Day – 11/28/2017

Today is the day. Pub day. It’s surreal to say it out loud. I’m going to walk around with a case of the nerves all day but I took the first leap. Might as well keep on walking.

For everyone that pre-ordered a copy of my debut novel, Moment of Truth, a big “Thank You”. You are appreciated. Your copies should download today.

If you were waiting to get your copy, here is the link again. Moment of Truth

Available November 28, 2017

First chapter below:

MOMENT OF TRUTH - Sample Chapter

 

I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the story. Please feel free to leave a review. Thanks.