The road to publication of my first novel has been long, twisty, and full of detours that sent back to square one but the destination has finally come into sight.

It has been an interesting experience as I proceed into new and unknown territory with phase of the publication. Submitted books and stories is something I have become quite familiar with but when the contract arrive for the novel that was new, particularly since I was navigating those waters sans agent. Then there was working with my editor. I must say that Don has been great, between his comments and the insights from Imogene the copyeditor I not only improved Vulcan’s Forge  I also learned things about my own writing style and hopefully have improved.

For the last two weeks I have been carefully reviewing the galleys for Vulcan’s Forge, scouring the PDFs for mistakes, typos, and the like. (And I must report that there have been very few. I adore the layout and look of the text. This is one of the principal reasons I sought traditional publishing there are far too many critical skills that are best performed by others.)

This morning I popped over the Flame tree Press’ website and saw that their Spring 2020 catalog was posted and there on page 28 was my book.

I was not ready for the emotional experience. There is a vast gulf between thinking about a thing and seeing that actual thing come into reality. It’s an excitement I have looked forward to and now it makes my fingers tremble and my heart flutter.

There can only be one ‘first time’ and I am so happy to share mine with Flame Tree.