Christine Mustchin - where are we now?

I have been summarising marketing achievements and noting things to do for the future. It has been helpful writing a report to myself so that I know exactly where I am now and what needs to be done. Briefly the book is in 4 independent bookshops, available online and one book signing has been completed. I have had a mention of the book in the local newspaper and two reviews are to be done in a local magazine and in the Self Publishing Magazine. There is one review posted on Amazon.

For the future I have another book signing arranged at Watersone's Haywards Heath and am contacting two other branches. I have written to 3 book bloggers requesting that they review the book - no replies as yet. I have submitted a feature to a Writers' News Magazine and am considering contacting another local paper with a short piece which will include mention of my father who has been such a support. Advertising is a possibility and I am waiting on a contact from the marketing department of Matador about this.

Some feedback is coming in which is always a critical time. I shall now take some time out to consider what else I should/wish to do and for how long. 6-9 months seems to be the time span used by the wholesalers which gives an idea of when one should give up and accept that it is moment to move on. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - blogging and bookshops

First of all the news that I have a follower. Welcome Sandie. My first success as a blogger.

Blogging is certainly less physically demanding than seeking out bookshops. Today I was in south London following up my contacts there in the two shops which have my book on sale. They were both happy to take the bookmarks I had prepared and I have promised to get in touch again in October.

Food for thought at the moment is whether to try more London bookshops. Mail shot obviously does not work unless you follow it up in person so I need to think about the effort versus reward ratio before I commit to more foot slogging. It might be a good idea to have some reviews in hand for this but the ones I am expecting will not be available for some time. I have sent another request to an online reviewer and am waiting to see if there is a response. One idea I have discovered is to look at Amazon reviewers and see if one of the star reviewers would be willing to take a look at my book. The more you do the more there seems to be to do. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - another Waterstone's signing

First of all some thoughts on last Saturday's signing. I learnt how important the blurb on the back of the book is. When browsing it is usually the first thing people look at when they pick up a book. I guess that the cover and title are the deciders in whether to pick up the book or not but, after that, it seems to be the blurb that does the selling. And how difficult it is to get right - I can certainly vouch for that.

On the strength of the book sales on Saturday I phoned Waterstone's Haywards Heath branch and go a positive response to my enquiry about a book signing there - so much so that the date is already fixed for Saturday 9 October.

Meantime I am following up the bookshops and was delighted that City Books have sold the copy I left with them and have taken a second. It's so good to have a friendly local independent bookstore. They are becoming such a rarity nowadays. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Waterstone's book signing

Well it's done. My first book signing. First of all thanks to the Waterstone's guys for being so helpful and welcoming and providing tips on how best to handle the signing. They advised going and talking to people so this is exactly what I did. Targeting the person to approach and then opening a conversation without appearing obtrusive was crucial. Just occasionally I got it wrong but mostly I found people very happy to talk about their experience of reading and interested in what I was doing. I managed to sell 25 out of the 30 books that Waterstone's had ordered and signed the remaining 5 for them to put on sale in the shop. It was hard work but worth it. Very tired today as I existed for over 6 hours on a small bottle of water, one banana and some chocolates. My choice as I didn't want to miss a moment. One great part of the day was a visit from my father who had made the journey by train to make sure he didn't miss the day. Peter took him out to lunch and then put him back on the train. Amazing and he had a chance to recommend the book to the over 65s in converstation with a journalist who wanted to offer it as a prize to this age group. Nothing like expanding horizons. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Waterstone's and on

A view of Waterstone's from the top deck of bus today in the company of grandchildren aged 5 and 7. I wonder what it will be like to be the subject of a book signing? I have support from the United Authors group who have been emailed about the signing and I hope a couple of people will turn up to support. My father is keen to come even if he has to come by train from Portsmouth. What determination at 86 years of age.

Another opportunity has presented itself and I must not turn it down. I have been given a contact at Sussex Radio, again through United Authors. An interview would certainly be a new experience. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - book signing Waterstone's

The grandchildren are staying at the moment so not much in the way of promotion of From Nemesis Island this week. Did pop into Waterstone's to see advance publicity for book signing on Saturday. They have used their own posters - simple black and white and not the ones I took in which feature the book cover itself as the poster background. I assume they will use the A3 ones for the display though. Anyway there was a copy of the book in the window so everything is certainly on track. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - book signing Waterstone's

Count down to the book signing on 28 August at Waterstone's Brighton. Not a lot left to do now. I have taken in posters and flyers to Waterstone's, prepared bookmarks and bought sweets for the display stand. Yesterday posters went up at Maritime House where I rent an office. I was very grateful for getting permission for that.

I went back to Steyning bookshop and was promised that they would read the book and get back to me, though not till end of September. Fingers crossed.

Otherwise I have been keeping an eye on booksales, slowly creeping up, and revising the first chapter of my children's novel. Prompted to do this by attending talk by agent Julia Churchill at our United Authors group. Excellent speaker with lots of good tips. Not sure my type of writing is eye catching enough but you can only write what you can write. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - book signing

Delivered the posters and flyers to Waterstone's today in readiness for the book signing on 28 August. It's all beginning to feel very real and consequently I am delighted and apprehensive. I have been warned that 2-5pm if the busiest time, so I have from 11am to prepare myself. All the staff at Waterstone's Brighton have been so helpful and friendly, it has been a good experience so far. It's up to me on the day, of course. I've been told that a bowl of sweeties is okay and I have made up some bookmarks too. Essential to give something back if people are giving up their time to speak to you - even more so if they buy a book. It seems that over-ordering is the norm but that, depending on how many are left unsold, sometimes they get the author to sign a few copies and put on a display. They generally hold on to them for 3 months which seems more than fair to me. We'll just have to see how it all goes.

Meantime one more book sold according to Troubador website - wonder if it's Clapham again. I can only guess. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - of politeness and promotion

Reflections on how to say no today. Something I experienced when I was managing a medical education centre. The best way I always found was to be firm but kind in your manner and sometimes regretful that things could not be otherwise. I always tried not to be condescending or arrogant. I was reminded of this by a gentle refusal to take on my book by an independent bookshop in London. I went away feeling positive rather than demoralised - not always the case as I have discovered elsewhere.

Thinking ahead to the book signing on 28 August. I went along to Waterstone's on Saturday to see how they had set up the signing for that week's Saturday author only to discover that she had already left. To be fair the signing was scheduled from 1200 -1600 and I arrived at 1630. Obviously not everybody inflicts a 1100-1700 regime on themselves as I have chosen to do. Saw a pile of books not sold but I guess they have to over order just in case. Checking my book sales online I saw a jump of 50 books which I assume is what Waterstone's have ordered for me. I think 8 books an hour optimistic but I'll do my best. I spent time in the shop looking at those who came in. The demographics look okay for my book but engaging people without hassling them will be a challenge. I wonder if I could bring in some sweeties to tempt them over to the stand. I'll certainly produce some bookmarks as it's good to have something to give people for their time.

Sunday I wrote my article for Writers' News. I used it as a chance to set down my own views on what I am trying to achieve in writing From Nemesis Island. I'll let it mature a bit and then send it off. Otherwise I had a look at the beginning of the next novel. It was so good to get back to writing and creating your own universe again. A bit of typing to do and then I'll try and get going properly again. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - progressing the promotion

Footslogging the bookshops again except that it was really a car slog. Peter took up his role as mini cab driver extraordinaire (an ever more frequent addition to his portfolio of activities) and we set off to south London for a second round of attempts with independent bookshops. Limited success but two said they would consider taking on From Nemesis Island. The first, in Kennington, took details and the second, in Peckham, also took a reading copy. The owner also enquired whether I had an agent and said she would pass it on to one if she thought she knew someone that the book would suit. Dreams are made of .... It all depends on what they decide. It made a difference that the book is available through Gardners. They wouldn't have even considered it otherwise. Thank you Matador marketing guys! Mustn't think about what might or might not be but assume the usual defualt state of thanks but no thanks and move on. So - have sent a letter to my former head of department at the Central Clinic to tell her of booksigning and ask if anyone can review the book. Have also drafted feature for Writers' News. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - pushing the promotion

Quieter pace these last couple of days, concentrating on bookshops again. Telephone follow up to start with and discovered one book sold in Clapham on sale or return basis. They are going to order from distributors now. Will collect my royalties on Wednesday - £4.80! Have to start somewhere and I'm really pleased. Will keep working at the independent bookshops - it's such a pleasure to deal with them.

Another project involves writing a feature articleabout myself and the book. Finding outlets for this is a challenge. Will start with Writers' News and take it from there. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - from book launch to real launch

Just one week after the book launch a trip to Dover for the real launch. Not exactly a boat launch, it was the launch of my father on to his first cruise abroad. Settling him on to the coach I felt as if I were seeing him off on a school trip though I know that, actually, he will soon be charming everyone with his easy-going manner and love of socialising. His first texts suggest that all is going well and the facilities are excellent. Here's to a great holiday for him.

On the way back from Dover I called in to Orpington is search of one of the bookshops I had included in my mail shot re From Nemesis Island. Nowhere to be seen! Oh well another promotional possibility excluded. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - promotion pause from portsmouth

Just waiting to leave Portsmouth and take father to hotel in Dover prior to his departure for Rhine cruise tomorrow. He is just so supportive of all my efforts re From Nemesis Island. He wanted to contact local Waterstone's but we have agreed that targeting local paper may be better. He is going to try and get to book signing in Brighton on 28 August and a photo of him there with me might make a suitable story for the Portsmouth News.

Meantime I have been reflecting on how people manage when they have a high public or internet profile. Even the little I have achieved so far with my presence on google search makes me nervous. Privacy is a wonderful thing I think. More about this no doubt later.

Final mundane thought for the day on computer frustations. I have been unable to put photos on my blog so far. Will have to enlist help. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - post launch promotion pause

Have been away for 2 days looking after the grandchildren. A chance to take a breath from launching From Nemesis Island. No sign of article re launch in The Argus - oh well. Will give it a week and then assume if was not news worthy enough. Meantime more time away from book promotion as I'm off to Portsmouth today to take my father on to Dover where he begins a cruise on Saturday. Great adventure - he is 86 years old.

Next week I'll plan the next phase in bookshop promotion and see about writing futher articles re the book. I have a book signing at Waterstone's in Brighton scheduled for 28 August and Matador have produced some excellent posters to advertise the event. I am concerned that no reviews have appeared on amazon yet and that they've reduced the price of the book. Strange, as I know at least one person has submitted a review. They also wanted to buy 2 copies but amazon would only supply 1 - why? Must ask the marketing department at Matador.

Christine Mustchin - the pluses of promotion

Some good feed back today. The news editor of 'The Argus' Brighton & Hove's local newspaper is to put in a piece about the launch. My letter to The Observer responding to article on FGM was published today and I have now sold 50 books. Is this good progress? The book has not yet been officially published so I'll take it as a yes.

Tried to take time off today to unwind but it is near impossible. Instead emailed many those attending the launch to thank them and sent photos to some of those who could not. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - post launch book promotion

Have been busy today emailing short news articles to Sussex Life and The Argus (local newspaper). I'm not optimistic that they will be published but you've got to try. I have entered a short piece about the launch on my author page on the Troubador website and sent off further details and photos for possible use on their website. The staff at Matador/Troubador have been great, not only in getting From Nemesis Island published but also in helping with the difficult task of marketing and promoting the book.

I promised some detail about the launch today so here goes.

I was pleased to hold it in Maritime House where I wrote the novel and I felt it was also appropriate because of the setting overlooking a port (one of the major locations in From Nemesis Island is a port in the Adriatic.) I wore a sailor style outfit to carry on this idea and forced my ever patient husband and daughter to do the same. Made the photos more interesting I thought, especially as we went out to the picnic area overlooking the harbour once the formalities inside were over.

The launch gave me a chance to thank people who had helped me achieve the publication of the book including staff at Maritime house, everyone at Matador publishers and, again, husband Peter and daughter Steph. Being able to say a few words about the book was important to me and I explained that it was written as a thriller with the aim of keeping the reader turning the pages. Some of the themes may be unfamiliar, and some well beyond what we will ever experience. There is, therefore, some explicit language and imagery but nothing was written without a basis in fact. The imagination merely places it in the context of the book's narrative. I hope those who read it will enjoy it, and if it provides something to think about as well, then that's great. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - launch at last

Finally made it. For a launch that was scheduled from 1230-1400 it may seem curious that only now have I time to make a note on my blog. I shall write in more detail tomorrow but wanted to record today that all went well. A handful of expected people could not make it at the last minute, but one or two others turned up instead. It was not a large gathering but a pleasant one and several family and friends stayed into the afternoon which was spent at the local cafe-bar near our home. A few even made it back to our place for tea and lots of discussion about books and marketing. I will reflect on the event later. This evening I have been trying to send an email to the news desk of the local paper. My mail server would not do the honours so I will try again tomorrow. If it does not go soon it will not be news. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - and then there were none

No more count down days left. Tomorrow the launch day arrives. Everything seems in place but would not have been without stalwart help of Peter. He will get a special mention in my speech. I have just finished it and decided to do my usual and write it out in full. I can adlib if needs be but I think 4 minutes is more than enough.

Got Peter to take some photos overlooking the harbour and even press ganged Kim, the receptionist, into posing too - just in case there is no time tomorrow. Unfortunately weather was blustery so hair was blown all over the place. Got some funny looks too from people taking ciggie breaks from their offices. Full report tomorrow of course ( or Saturday if the celebrations go on into the evening.) Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - Google gets it

Google has recognised my blog! It came up on page three of a google search of my name. Seems putting my name in the text and title of my book From Nemesis Island in the label has worked. I know that linking the blog to a well known web site also helps. I wonder if my letter to The Observer will count. I put the blog name at the end. The letter did not mention my book or the launch but I felt I had to respond to a feature article on FGM. It's something I've been concerned about since working as a medical student in obstetrics. Readers of From Nemesis Island will see what I mean.

Meantime the launch arrangments continue with a supermarket trip and preparation of posters to put up in Maritime House Business Centre on the day. I'm so pleased to be using the Centre as I wrote the book in an office there and I like the maritime connection as the builidng overlooks Shoreham Port. There is another link as well since my book has one of its central locations in a port. Christine Mustchin

I'm getting anxious about arrangments now, particularly about how to take photos of the harbour area that include the launch. I've written another brief article about the launch for Matador and will need these photos to illustrate the text.

Christine Mustchin - what to do next

I seem to have spent so much time in front of a computer screen today with little to show for the book launch. No more acceptances and no idea of how many people attending from Maritime House where I have my office. If too many colleagues decide to attend it will be cosy indeed. Encouraged by the venue, though, which has been tidied and cleared of clutter - I think it will work ok. The reception staff are being just so helpful.

Wrote two articles about the launch today. I'm not sure if they will be accepted but, when I have a photo to send off, I can but try. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - friends and family

I had a wonderful Saturday evening discussion with my father about the book. It reminded me of the serious themes embedded in the page turning thriller style of narrative - there for the taking or not as the reader pleases.

More discussion about the book with friends the next day. Enjoying their hospitality in a Dorset village I was given a chance to explain a bit about how the book came to be written and published. I am so lucky to have friends and family who are so interested and supportive. The book launch is not only a celebration but a chance to say thank you to them.

Returned home today with Sunday newspaper article about one of the book's themes. I am considering whether this could lead into an approach re a review of the book. Meantime the Self-publishing magazine has agreed to accept it for reveiw. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - nautical food

Awake at 5am thinking of culinary aspects of the book launch. With a nautical theme I ought to have nautical food - sounds like something from Lewis Carroll. I'll deal with that next week. Instead today went and got more bubbly - very important as I am still getting acceptances and the numbers of attendees is growing.

The other thing bubbling in the back of my mind is how to get people to read this blog. Don't think I have a clear enough theme in the text. I could try putting my name in all the entries - might sound a bit strange. Something else for next week then. Christine Mustchin

Christine Mustchin - amazing

No not me, I'm not amazing - but today certainly has been pretty amazing.

1.The acquisitions librarian has accepted a copy of my book for Hove library and will order more for other Brighton branches if the uptake is good.
2.My local independent bookshop, City Books, has accepted a copy.
3.I have a confirmed booksigning on 28 August at Waterstone's in Brighton and the local paper The Argus has agreed to give it advance publicity. Matador are producing posters for me to advertise the event.
4.I have taken the first steps to getting the book reviewed (with trepidation I hasten to add - no one wants a bad review but, as I said before, it's got to be done.)

Amazing too what I've discovered by researching for book reviewers thorough the internet. There are just so many online reading groups and review groups. One American site was talking of reaching out to 3 million people! I had no idea of the extent of the phenomenon. Learning curves again!

And to end the day on a sartorial note, I went shopping for nautical type tee-shirts. Even found one acceptable to Peter! Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - pensive about publicity

Pensive about publicity is certainly true for today. I have a contact now at the local newspaper but have missed the boat for a feature about the book launch. Will try sending a short email piece to the news editor instead. You never know. I have two other outlets for a piece about the launch so all is not lost.

How to get the book known? Everyone says this is where you the hard work begins - another cliche to digest.

Hours on the internet educating myself on the way forward and there's no dodging it now, I have to get reviewed. The Self-publishing Magazine is a must and then there are the blogger reviews - ever more important and at least kind or silent.

Final publicity pensive for the day - the more you do, the more there is to do. I won't be the first to have discovered that. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Small steps and a different launch

These little steps could not have been achieved without a car and Peter; driving me to south London, patiently navigating me around with the help of Mr Tom Tom. And the cause? A launch on a few chosen bookshops. After a circular tour taking in Crystal Palace, Penge, Sydenham, Dulwich, Clapham, Wandsworth, Beckenham and back to Crystal Palace I had managed to place my novel with independent bookshops in Crystal Palace and Clapham on a sale or return basis. Small steps to sales but an achievement none the less. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Launches and learning curves

Back to the office today where I do my writing. Not much writing being done at the moment, though, as the launch takes over my energies. Turning the organising of an event into an interesting diary entry requires a talent that certainly eludes me today. Marketing is another elusive subject, reducing me to the obvious words - curve, learning, steep.

The office is a short walk from my flat along the promenade and watching the sea in its various moods usually helps solve creative conundrums or provide a nugget of thought. Today my tussle has been with press coverage until I read that the default state these days is for press not to attend events (not enough staff and time). One less thing to worry about then - so the sea said. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - A birthday and books

A belated birthday lunch yesterday led to chatterings about the book launch. Out of the five of us only one (husband of my step sister) hadn't read my book. Husband Peter had read the book in various manifestations during the course of its writing and my father was the first to buy and read a pre-publication copy. I must have read it at some point I suppose but I have been suprised at finding out that other people have already bought it on the internet and read it. I am learning that the publication date (2 August) is a formality rather than an actuality now that on-line purchases are so common. Step-sister Marilyn asked about posting a reveiw on Amazon. Yes please, well if it's positive. They are all coming to the launch and it was so good to hear their enthusiatic support. Think I need to get some more bubbly. And, by the way, the lunch was extremely good - Hallidays in Funtington if you're ever passing.

Today I have been reflecting on google and other search engines. Once you have published something, your internet privacy has gone forever and, with an unusual surname such as I acquired through marriage, you can no longer kid yourself that there are any hiding places left. Got to get used to it! Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Hove on sea

A visit from the grandchildren today, Sam aged 7 and Toby aged 5 - always a pleasure to see them enjoy being by the sea. Today the sea was in spate and we sat by the concrete groyne, out of the wind, watching the rollers crash onto the beach and advance ever closer to our spot. Magic!
Steph, my daughter was wearing a stripy top - very nautical and I was back to my launch theme again. She will be serving the refreshments with Peter, my husband, dealing with the book sales. I'm sure Steph would be happy to adopt a yachting style for the occasion but I can't say the same for Peter.
I'm getting used to a daily blog - at least until launch day. No followers yet but then who knows about me yet? I guess emails to friends would be a good way to start. I'll add that to my "to do" list for next week. Christine Mustchin.

Christine Mustchin - Book Launch

Fourteen days and counting to the launch of my first published novel and the first blog I have ever written.

The launch is not going to be a big affair but, thanks to publishers Matador who helped me self-publish, my thriller From Nemesis Island is now in book form and I wanted to celebrate.

I wrote the book in a rented office in Maritime House, Portslade and it seemed appropriate to hold the launch there. Today I have been buying bottles of bubbly and checking replies from the invitations.

I've been wondering how to introduce a nautical theme to the event - I can't see me in a sailor suit though! Christine Mustchin.