Book Publishing Secrets with MaryAnn Kempher #books #bookpublishing

For many years, MaryAnn Kempher lived in Reno Nevada where most of her stories are set. Her books are an entertaining mix of mystery and humor. She lives in the Tampa Florida area with her husband, two children, and a very snooty Chorkie.

WEBSITE & SOCIAL LINKS:

Website: http://www.mkempher.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryAnnKempher/

What happens when your soul is bound to another before you were ever born? Lonny and Roo have been best friends since they met in high school in 1975 at the age of fourteen. Same last name, same birthdate, they were attached at the hip; rarely was one seen without the other. Together they navigate through their emotional high school years, but nothing prepares the naive teenagers for the real world ahead of them. Now on the cusp of their fiftieth birthday, Lonny finds Roo broke and alone and convinces her to leave with him on a cross country road trip from New York to Las Vegas, hoping to set her on a new path in life. Told exclusively by Roo, follow the friends back and forth through their unique relationship — experience the loss of innocence, career and life choices that separate and unite them, and unspeakable events that nearly destroy them. It’s a love only they understand, as well as the unbreakable bond that forever ties them together. Is it possible they are only capable of loving each other?

ORDER YOUR COPY

Amazon → https://amzn.to/329vHMV

 

Thank you for your time in answering our questions about getting published.  Let’s begin by having you explain to us why you decided to become an author and pen this book?

A year before starting book one, I’d retired from the US Air Force. Because my kids were still young, I was staying home vs going back to work outside the home. I had time on my hands, but writing a book wasn’t something I’d ever given any thought to until I’d read an article on-line that got me to thinking. It took me nearly five years from start to publication because I was treating writing as a hobby. Now, I average nine to twelve months between books.

Is this your first book?

Yes, but since its original publication I’ve gone on to write six more.

With this particular book, how did you publish – traditional, small press, Indie, etc. – and why did you choose this method?

This book was originally published by a small publisher, but after a year I bought the rights back and self-published.

Can you tell us a little about your publishing journey?  The pros and cons?

I’ve had ups and downs. All my books have done relatively well. My first book made it into Amazon’s top 100. However, it’s been hard to maintain that momentum. Having been published traditionally and having self-published, I’ve found self-publishing to be the best route for me. I like the control it gives me.

What lessons do you feel you learned about your particular publishing journey and about the publishing industry as a whole?

My respect for authors who do really well has increased. This is because I know that no matter how much you promote, it might not be enough. It’s not easy to become a bestselling author. I’ve learned that a book that most people say is written terribly could still be a bestseller while a book that is thought to be well-written might not sell at all. That there is an element of luck to this business.

Would you recommend this method of publishing to other authors?

Self-publishing? Yes, absolutely.

What’s the best advice you can give to aspiring authors?

Assuming you’ve created a well-written, enjoyable book—don’t assume your job is done. Ensure the book is professionally proofread and edited, and is given a professional looking cover. As much as your budget allows—promote, promote, promote.