Now that my book is released and the book launch is just days away, I wanted to give a “sneak peak” into the letters that my Irish immigrant ancestor wrote to his wife and children…His words are heartfelt and genuine. His motivation for joining the war was not political nor for personal pride; it was to benefit his family. Florence Burke joined the Union Army as a “substitute.” In other words he took the draft of a wealthy man in exchange for cash and a plot of land. He made a desperate gamble because he knew that owning land would be a life-changer for his family. Did his gamble pay off? (You’ll have to read the book to find out!)
The Big Finish… Press Release and a launch party
Now that my book has been edited, published and distributed; what’s next? In the publishing world there is a grand finale announcing the release of your book to the media called a Press Release! My publisher will be sending a press release on my novel Yours Faithfully, Florence Burke this Thursday, June 2nd. The press release will be aimed at a target audience, namely those who read or write about books. I hope to pique the interest of those who may not know about my historical novel but are interested in similar subjects like Irish immigration or the Civil War. The press release seems to be a big deal because every author wants their book to be noticed by as many people as possible.
What I am more excited about is the other “finale” that happens soon after a book release and that is the Launch party! I can’t wait to celebrate with those that have supported and encouraged me along this three year endeavor. And what a night it should be! I have planned an event that includes a book signing and a table displaying my great, great grandfather’s Civil War letters, the original box where the letters were found, the tin photographs of my Irish ancestors. I have invited the artist who designed my book cover, Michele Boshar, to come and show samples of her amazing artwork and Brian Corcoran a talented Irish singer who has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years. In addition to these talented local artists, I invited Helen Thomas to display their Celtic necklaces and other locally made products, and Puff Love and Mr. Gelato to sell their delicious local treats. It’s basically a celebration of everything local; books, art, music, artisan crafts and goodies!
To top it off, I’ve arranged for two Civil War period “re-enactors” to come and bring the characters of my book to life! They are experts in their field and can answer any questions about this time period, the soldier will demonstrate how to load a rifle, and they will wear full period clothing and a Union Army Uniform. I hope my friends, families and historical fiction lovers will come to my book launch party! All of the festivities will be happening in the brand new courtyard in front of the Andover bookstore and Mr. Gelato on Main Street in Andover, MA. Here are the details:
That’s it! I’m self-publishing!
I’ve never been good at waiting. After all, how do you move forward if you’re stuck in one place? My debut novel, a historical fiction entitled Yours Faithfully, Florence Burke, has been caught in “publishing purgatory” for seven months now, and I’m frustrated with the snail’s pace that Literary Agents and publisher’s move.
There has been interest in my book; in fact it has been sitting on the desk (probably on the bottom of a huge stack of other manuscripts) at a literary agent in London and New York and at a small publisher in Boston. But I can’t get an answer from them! A simple “yes” or “no” is all I am asking for so I can plan my next move. I prefer straight up rejections (and I’ve gotten plenty of those).
A toast to St Patrick; the beloved “Irish” Saint
It’s almost that time again. Parades, green pride, shamrock shakes and Guinness. All over the country the Irish and the “Irish-for-the-day” will be celebrating with stout beers, red wigs, shamrock pins and green clothing. This nationally recognized holiday is beloved by all ages-and has given Americans a day to appreciate the Irish heritage and join in on some of their jovial traditions. Thankfully, it is also a welcome sign of spring.
Meeting John L. O’ Sullivan: Fate or Luck of the Irish?
Historian John L. O’Sullivan assisting me with research in Ballinhassig, Ireland
The best part of researching my great-great grandfather’s past was taking my whole family on a trip to Ireland. We hopped on Air Lingus as soon as our children were dismissed for summer vacation. Although it was the end of June when we touched down in Ireland, the temperature was in the 50’s, and, of course, it was raining. However, it didn’t deter us from driving along the western coast; stopping to take photos of the rolling green hills, endless pastures filled with cows, and the beautiful foggy views of the ocean.