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