Just over one year ago, I signed a contract to publish my first novel, I am Mrs. Jesse James. I’m excited to report that after several delays, the book is finally scheduled for release in August, and is now available on preorder. 
You may be thinking something to the effect of: Is she out of her mind? She’s got a picture book coming out in September!
Traditional wisdom has it that publishing one book a year is about what an author should expect to do. If you take a look at major publishing houses, anywhere from twelve to eighteen months (sometimes longer) between books for one author isn’t unusual. There’s research, writing, editing, cover design, prep work, and marketing. It takes time to birth a book.
Then there are those who choose the route of publishing their own work. They have the option to do so more frequently. Some strive to put out a book every three to four months, which in my view always sounded daunting.
Yet here I am, preparing to launch three books. One in August. One in September. One in October.
Before you suggest I contact my doctor for a full mental health evaluation, let me assure you, I didn’t plan it this way. Midnight the One-Eyed Cat (co-authored with Sheree K. Nielsen) had an original release date of September 2017. A delay moved it to September 2018.
I am Mrs. Jesse James, originally was to release in April 2018, but various issues pushed the date to August 2018.
Meanwhile, I’ve been working on a Christmas-themed collection of essays, poetry, and short stories titled Let Your Heart Be Light: A Celebration of Christmas. Originally, this book was scheduled for release in August through Evergreen Tree Press. Based on the unforeseen circumstances with the other books, the release date has been pushed to October, as it was either that or wait until 2019. Postponing publication for a full year on a book that’s nearly ready to go, wasn’t an option. I’ll provide more details and unveil the new cover for this labor of love in a few weeks.
Any way you want to slice it, I’ll soon be launching a new book every month for three months in a row. I’m pretty sure that’s not what experts would recommend, but nevertheless, I’ll find a way.
I’m thrilled, excited, and more than a little nervous. You’ll hear what’s happening with book events and signings as I spread the news, so I apologize in advance if it seems like too much hoopla all at once.
That being said, let the celebration begin! I’ve got three books releasing, and I intend to do my best by each and every one of them.
Cross your fingers for me, and thanks for your support!
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Pat Wahler is an award-winning author with three books releasing in 2018 – I am Mrs. Jesse James, Midnight the One-Eyed Cat, and Let Your Heart Be Light: A Celebration of Christmas.
18 Responses
Congratulations, Pat! You’You’ve worked so hard for this and I know your books will all do great. Can’t wait to hold them in my hands!
Thanks, Sarah. Your support (and advice) are always greatly appreciated!
And each one sounds wonderful, Pat! Let the trifecta begin!
Thanks, Cathy! It’s certainly going to be an interesting process.
My goodness I admire your tenacity and willingness to to tackle the diverse genres. Kudos to you and the best of sales, too.
Thanks, Linda! I hope it all works out (fingers crossed).
Retired? You don’t sound retired to me. You sound like you’re working (at something you love) and busy, busy, busy! If you’re interested in doing an interview or guest post on my blog (to coordinate with your release dates, in whatever way you choose) let me know!
Lisa, thank you so much, I’d love to do an interview on your blog! We can work out the details as the time gets closer. I have to admit, it’s all quite intimidating.
Congratulations on both! I really love both covers and can’t wait to read them. 🙂
Thanks, Margo! Sometimes I wondered if this day would ever come.
That’s such exciting news. Good luck with all three books. I love the cover of this book!
Thanks, Angela! I know what a dedicated reader you are, so your opinion means a lot to me.
So happy for you!
Covers of the booksare beautiful too!
Thanks, Theresa! I’m quite excited, but a little nervous. Thanks for posting pictures on Hope’s May Day dance. She’s so grown up!
Oh Pat, how exciting!! So happy for you, and congratulations on all the good news. I just love the cover on this one. Can’t wait to hear all about things as they unfold!
Thank you so much, Teri! Keeping my fingers crossed I can handle it all. 🙂
Wow, you have been busy! Congratulations, and I can’t wait to read all of them.
Thanks, Mary! We need to get together again soon for lunch or something.