The proof landed for the reviewer copies, so I have twenty-four hours to read the first bound copy of The Last Track in existence, note any changes and return any comments to the publisher. At first glance, I have to say, all looks well.
But maybe I’ll see differently after the tears stop streaming.
From above
From side
Sometime Monday, proofs for the galleys to The Last Track will arrive. At that point it will almost be like holding the finished product, sans binding and the official cover. Wow. Presuming very few to no changes on my end, the galleys should land 8-10 business days after that. And that will be exactly like holding the book, sans the kick-ass cover Elynn Cohen devised.
Good timing because the actor has been rehearsing the earlier scenes for the podcast series, so I can let them loose with the rest of the story, and get the remaining galleys to reviewers.
Oh yes, there will be a picture of the galley. And some off camera tears from me.
Two pieces of good news came in this week. First, an author I really respect agreed to read The Last Track and provide comments for a review. I was kind of in shock for a day or two after the reply returned; it seemed surreal. Unfortunately, email can’t exactly be laminated or I would be carrying it around right now. So their kind note exists as a bit of digital glory for now, between myself and the screen, but unbelievably appreciated.
Also, an up and coming actor has agreed to lend his voice to The Last Track. Starting in late January, every few days a podcast of a scene in the book will appear here and at the publisher for download, free to all. Working sequentially, over the course of about six months the book will become available online in audio form.
Unlike the uber-heavy presence I played during in the book trailer, which continued well into editing and post production, my plan with the podcast is to set the actor up with what he needs and let him tear. Periodically I’ll check if he wants feedback or suggestions. Otherwise, I’m staying out of his way as much as possible.
Leaving the reading the actor frees me up to keep writing and working with the publisher on the marketing battle plans.