It’s been two weeks since The Ambitious Madame Bonaparte came out, and I’ve been learning what it’s like to be a published novelist rather than an unpublished one.
Some of the things I’ve been doing the last fourteen days include sending out review copies, scheduling signings, autographing books, and getting the beginnings of reader reaction. Two friends have already finished reading the novel, and their responses were very enthusiastic. The hardest thing about remaining unpublished all these years has been not having much of an audience beyond my beta readers. I always imagined what it would be like to have readers say they loved my novel, and now that’s starting to happen. Admittedly, so far I’ve only heard from friends, and they are predisposed to like it, but even so, the comments I’ve received so far have helped make all the years of effort seem worthwhile. Now I’m looking forward to getting more objective responses.
One thing has surprised me is how much I enjoy signing books. I’ve never really fantasized about giving out autographs, but I take a lot of pleasure in making a book personal for my readers. “My readers.” A phrase I wasn’t sure I would ever be able to say. One advantage of achieving this childhood dream a little later in life is that I appreciate it so much.
Sorry if this post borders on the gooey. I’ll be back to my usual self tomorrow.
Ruth Hull Chatlien 
No need to apologize for being “gooey”! It is a fabulous time and you should enjoy it! I can only hope that I get there one of these days….
Thank you. And good luck reaching your publication goal.
Enjoy every moment of this and every signing. You earned it!
Thank you, Lucie.
Congratulations on having your own “readers”. It’s great fun isn’t it?
Yes, it is. 🙂
Well done, Ruth! I hope to join you on the “other side” some day!
Thank you. Good luck to you. Pleased to meet another Ruth.
Ruth, I do not comment often, but I’ve been reading along. This is such a great post to read, I love imagining you acclimating yourself to this new status, published novelist. Enjoy every moment, that you have worked so hard for. I hope to get the book for Christmas!
Thank you, dear Fran.
You have READERS! I’d be squealing if I were you. Definitely squealing.
Friends are predisposed, I agree, though the trick is actually getting them to read the darn thing in the first place 😉
Jen, I’ve been very touched by how many have actually shelled out good money to buy the book. The next big hurdle will be to find “readers who are strangers.” But for now, you’re right, I do feel like squealing.
Goo away. You’ve earned it! ^_^
Congratulations! It’s so exciting that you’re signing autographs. 😀 You can talk about this all you want. 🙂
Thanks, Krystal. 🙂
I love this post–it must be so exciting! I’m in the middle of the book, by the way. I’m really enjoying it!
Thank you,Michelle! I love hearing that.