Hi there, I always find it enriching to hear from fellow authors. Personally, my writing journey started with a deep fascination for 1920s Berlin. It led me to create Gereon Rath and the world around him. What inspired you to start writing?
Hi. Just before I took early retirement in February 2011, a guy I had worked with since 1979 suggested I try writing a novel. I hadn't thought of it before, before, but decided to give it a go. Mission: Yemen is my ninth novel.
Nine novels, what an achievement! It’s inspiring to see someone take up writing with such energy, especially after a full career. Mission: Yemen sounds full of intrigue, and I admire your dedication to storytelling.
I just returned and wanted to say, your book cover is striking. It’s beautifully designed and truly stands out. Did you create it yourself or work with a designer? Either way, it’s very well done
Ah, that explains it. I must say, Matt has done an excellent job with the cover, there's a clarity and tension to it that suits the mood of the story rather well. It’s always reassuring to see someone take matters into their own hands when the usual channels fall short. As an author, I understand all too well how much a poorly conceived cover can misrepresent a book’s tone or setting. Good on him for turning frustration into craft. That’s very Berlin, 1930s, in its own way.
Also, I hope you don’t mind me mentioning, I noticed the book has a relatively low rating on Amazon, which surprised me given how strong and polished it seems. Have you received any feedback about that? I ask out of genuine interest, as your work truly deserves more recognition.
No, haven't received any feedback, but this seems to be the same for all of my novels, even the ones released by my two publishers. A year ago, I was so fed up with my social media constantly being hacked I closed everything.
I'm currently working in collaboration with Michael Maxwell on a new series. Hopefully, being associated with Michael will help as he has over 30 published novels.
When I lived in Scotland (where my wife is from) we were part of a small business market at a local mall. Between July 2021 and March 2024, I sold 655 autographed copies of my novels at the market, which held a three-day event once a month. Hopefully, I can find something similar here.
A few years ago, I struggled with book marketing, until I teamed up with an incredible marketing specialist. Thanks to her strategic, affordable services, my sales soared, I gained thousands of reviews, hit bestseller lists, and got my books into stores and subscription boxes. She identified my audience, boosted visibility, and transformed my author brand.
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She’s not one of those generic book coaches, she actually digs into your genre, your voice, and your audience. Like, really finds your readers and gets your book in front of them.
If you’re ever even thinking about growing your reach, more reviews, more visibility, even placements in bookstores, I’d be happy to connect you two. Zero pressure. Just a conversation if you’re curious.
Hey! I work with a team that partners with authors to build smart, reader-focused email systems that nurture fans, boost engagement, and drive steady book sales, would you be open to teaming up with us to turn your email list into a real marketing asset?
