Press Releases & Paris!

For the past two weeks I've been taking a fabulous online class through Author MBA on how to write a press release called "The Pitching the Press Challenge". Author coach, and former PR professional, Louise Ahern is the instructor. She's amazing and very knowlegable. The class is winding down and I'm very pleased with the way my release turned out. A lot of writers think that since they write books that writing a press release is a piece of cake. It's not. Many of the book related releases I see, including the ones I've written in the past, are all about the book it self. Well, guess what? The press could care less about your book. The major thing I've learned in the class is to look for angles that can tie back to your book but don't actually have anything to do with your book alone. In other words, give the press a reason to care. Make your release newsworthy. I learned how to think outside the book. I highly recommend this class for all authors. So, keep an eye out for the next time it's offered. It was very affordable( $19.00!) and Louise will edit your release and make suggestions to make it the best it can be.

In book news, I got my advanced copies of Diva's Last Curtain Call last week. This is my third book. You would think I'd get less excited about holding a new book in my hands. But I'm just as excited as when I held my first book. I guess it's like holding a new baby. Tangled Roots was released in mass market paperback this month, and is also available as an ebook through the eharlequin website.

And lastly, the thing that I'm most excited about is: I'M GOING TO PARIS IN SEPTEMBER!!!! Yes, that's right. I finally took the plunge and booked a trip. I've been longing to go to Paris since I was a teen. I booked a semi escorted tour, meaning that there will be some days where there will be organized excursions like a day trip to Versaille, and tours of the Louvre, and a boat cruise down the Seine. But the rest of the time is at my own leisure to see and do what I want. I won't be completely on my own; but I won't be tied to a schedule either. I'm not looking forward to the 8 hour plane ride. But, I can't wait! Don't worry, I'll take tons of pictures and share them here on the blog!

Angela