This is the third post in a series focusing on a self-assessment of this phase of my writing journey, particularly as it pertains to Core Haven, my new release. The first post was an overview & included a series of questions (Reassessing the Long Game) while the second post addressed the notion of my end goal (Milestone).

This third one revolves around the question:

• What do I want to accomplish along the way?

I think this might be one of the most underrated considerations since it’s easy to overlook the step-by-step process when the overall project feels so daunting. I can only imagine what a painter must feel like when faced with an enormous canvas—especially something like the side of a building. It must be easy to forget about the importance of each sketch, each stroke when they’re so focused on the larger picture.

Speaking of which, I’ve been enjoying watching Devon Rodriguez, aka the subway artist, on YouTube since his attention to detail is so extraordinary and his impromptu work exemplary. (Not that I’m comparing myself to him in any way, shape, or form.)

But it does bring up some important issues as I keep promoting a novel that’s received so many positive responses (4.6 on both Amazon & Goodreads). However, even though it’s closing in on the coveted first goal of 20 reviews (12 at the time of this writing), there aren’t yet enough to climb another rung on A10’s Ladder of Recognition (the Amazon algorithm discussed in previous posts).

I can’t help but think of it as a digital version of the stereotypical record boards hung on the walls of thousands of high school & college gyms across the country. So many people want to see their names up there, while I just want to see a novel many people have deemed worthy of attention get a little more of the spotlight.

So then, back to the question: What do I really want to accomplish along the way toward that goal?

I think for me process is the centerpiece. I’ve always been comfortable with my writing technique, from prewriting to storyboarding to researching to you name it. Now that I’ve published two novels, I feel about the same with formatting, writing front & end matter, & whatnot.

And honestly, I’m even way more comfortable with the promotion side of things. After all, I’ve:

• maintained this website for three years, even expanding it to include a fledgling newsletter setup
• tried all sorts of promo platforms from BookBub to Amazon Ads to smaller outfits
• joined more social media platforms than I care to admit, but currently am fairly active on (especially when it comes to promo days):
  • Threads
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • BlueSky
  • SubStack
  • X
• learned the basics of Canva so I can produce my own graphics & even a trailer.

About the only thing left I haven’t considered is posting flyers or billboards across the country.

Anyway, in answer to this question—I’d give myself a ✅ or maybe a ➕ since I’ve overcome inhibitions about promoting my work, aligned viable platforms, & am moving along looking forward to finishing & launching my next novel in the not too distant future.

Speaking of which, I wonder if next year it’ll be possible to hire a pilot to haul a sky banner over a regional librarian conference to promote my next…

Keep you posted.

Drew

P.S. If by chance you’re interested in reading and thoughtfully reviewing either of my two companion novels, please see the Amazon links below. (And thanks so much in advance!)

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Latest BookFunnel Promo LINK

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I invite you to check out Lee Hall’s excellent video review, especially the first book he includes on his short list of memorable indie reads—uh-huh, that would be Pearl Fields and the Oregon Meltdown.

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