Out Of The Blue

I usually don't blog on weekends anymore because it takes too much time away from writing my newest murder mystery, but I must make an exception today because I received an e-mail asking if I would recommend my publisher, Wheatmark, Inc.

The following is the e-mail string between me and a policeman named Dave in Texas:

----- Original Message -----
From: David
To: 'mittinc@commspeed.net'
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2010 2:08 AM


Mitt,

I am considering using Wheatmark. Would you recommend them?

Thanks in advance,
Dave
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From: Mitt [mailto:mittinc@commspeed.net]
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2010 4:23 AM
To: David
Subject: Re:

Howdy, Dave,

I would recommend Wheatmark in a heartbeat. In this high-tech POD publishing world, where self-publishing is really the only option for unknown authors, it is critical that we be able to trust our Publish On Demand partner. Wheatmark, Inc. has treated me with respect, kept their word, and offered the best service in the industry. They are out front with every aspect of what they can provide for a reasonable fee and the responsibilities of the author.

Is the process easy? No. If it were, everybody on the planet would be bestselling authors!

Please mention my name to Grael Norton if you decide to use them. No, I do not get any kind of reward if you do. I just like them to know I am thankful for the wonderful service and free education they also provide for clients. I have recommended other new authors and one best selling author friend to Wheatmark, simply because they are the best in the industry.

Go for it!

Mittster
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----- Original Message -----
From: David
To: 'Mitt'
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2010 3:29 AM
Subject: RE:

Okay, I'm a cop working the night shift. That's why I'm awake. You??? Thanks very much for responding. I have had my manuscript ready for several months and have sent numerous query letters to no avail. My patience wearing thin has brought me to consider self-publishing. My biggest concern is the effort Wheatmark puts into marketing. Am I going to be selling books out of the trunk of my car. I am in Texas so maybe I should say the bed of my truck.

Dave

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Pleased to meet you, Dave. I'm awake because I write murder mysteries full time and early morning is the very best time to do that. How did you find me all the way from Texas?

Now comes the hard part.... Unless your name is Stephen King, you are responsible for promoting your books. It's a fact of life worldwide, not just in America. The chances of getting a traditional publisher to fund that effort is nil. You would have a much better chance of winning the lotto! The thing about Wheatmark is that after you sell 2,000 copies, they will take over paying for the cost of promotions. No other POD in the industry offers that deal. Plus, they are ready and willing, through seminars and other means, to teach you what you need to know to promote your work. Keep in mind that promoting your books will be your job until you leave the planet.

No, you don't have to sell books off the tailgate of your truck, although I have done so with some success. The Internet is how Wheatmark approaches their educational process. I have a Blog, Websites, Twitter and Facebook working for me 24-7. The real effort is getting name recognition (Wheatmark calls it your Author Platform) and getting that recognition is a tough nut to crack.

I have one book published, Evil in the Mirror, the sequel Day Stalker is finished and ready to be published, and a new one in the writing process called, The Phoenix Code. I started my writing career February of 2009 when construction died here in Arizona. I have also written two e-Books during that time. I am still unknown, not making any money, and working hard to get known. The truth is that it takes up to five years to accomplish your author's platform! Wheatmark was always upfront about the hard road ahead and they were right on the mark!

I tell you this because it's the truth and you must be motivated to become a best selling author. You must also have great passion about your work. One thing about my slow rise up the ranks is that it has been thrilling and exciting. Book signings are fun, as are radio interviews. Promotion is the key, but time management is also important.

I could talk all night about this stuff, but I must get back to work. If there is anything else I can do to help you, please let me know. We authors must stick together so we can learn and prosper. I also want to thank you for protecting us from the bad guys.

Mittster
http://www.murdermysteryevilinthemirror.com/
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I am now waiting for his reply. What a small world we live in.

Write on,

Mittster