Fall in Love This Fall
Hi Friends and Family,
Thank you for being here! I am so excited to share some very happy news. I have a pub date! That’s right, my swoony travel romance, THE STARS OF SCOTLAND, debuts November 25th. Get ready to fall in love with Brie and Bryce this fall!
THE STARS OF SCOTLAND will be available at bookstores and online in paperback and ebook. I’ve also just received my digital Advanced Reader Copies, and you are the first to know. Would you like to read an early copy?
A few writer friends have reached out asking ‘what are you doing to prepare for your book launch?’
A couple weeks ago, I designed a Google Form for my Stars Street Team sign up (sign ups are available on my Linktree at https://tr.ee/n2qxxsww2R). A street team is a group of readers and book lovers who help share and promote a book. All selected street team members will receive a free digital ARC and swag surprise, as well as be entered into a few paperback giveaways. Although I’ve worked in the Microsoft Suite for years, I’m not very technically inclined in other technology suites. Navigating and designing my own Google Form took time, including the design. But once I found the little paintbrush palette icon on the top right of the form, I customized images, coloring, etc.
I also created an Excel sheet to keep track of my writer/author friends who noted they’ll post on publication day to support me, as well as separate sheets for my Stars Street Team and ARC readers. Staying organized, while juggling all these tasks has been so helpful.
To spread the word about my book, I’ve been creating digital content (below is an example). I use CANVA to create reels and posts, as well as Instagram. CANVA has been a lifesaver, allowing me to create project folders for my books and different content. The app also provides recommendations and allows you to create your own brand colors by project, which I love!
Speaking of creating, I brainstormed some ideas for the swag surprise for my Stars Street Team and also perused a few vendors for my promotional book boxes. Did you know you can customize book boxes? I’m learning so much and having so much fun. I’m also hand-selecting items to go inside.
A friend recently asked me when I have time to do all my ‘book stuff.’ The answer: at night, on my lunch break, or early in the morning at 5 a.m. My author dreams are coming true, and I have to keep pushing forward. At times, I just want to curl up on the couch and watch a movie (and I do, on Fridays with my husband along with Trader Joes’ mint chocolate chip ice cream:)), but I know all my hard work is making a difference and getting me closer to my dream of being a career author.
Thank you for all the encouragement, sweet emails, and messages. I cherish you all!
Until next time, I send you love.
xo
Erica Mae