On This, The Eve of Publication

Well, here we are again.

It is November 9th. Tonight, the sun will set and tomorrow my second novel A Dark Roux will be officially released.

I won't recap all of the events that led to this book being created, I've done that enough in other posts, Instead, I want to reflect on those who have allowed me to reach this point. Because after one book, it felt only partially real. Now, it feels so much more concrete: no longer a dream, but a true reality.

First things first, I need to extend the deepest gratitude to Wicked House Publishing and the madman who runs it for continuing to believe in the stories I want to tell as well as the editors who did not try to change the story, but rather let it breathe its own breath and gave their invaluable insight along the lines from which it had already been drawn. This may not seem like a huge thing, but I assure you it is. In my opinion, good editors are ones who work with the story to help the author achieve their vision, a vision unique to the story they are telling. I consider myself lucky to have been given that experience by Wicked House and my editors, Heather Daughrity and Guy Medley.

And to all the readers who read advanced copies and gave their feedback in the form of ratings and reviews, thank you! Reviews are the lifeblood of indie authors, and the impact they have on visibility cannot be overstated. Good review or bad, thank you for taking the time to read my book and give your honest thoughts on it.

And another thank you to the authors I've met along the way who've provided a careful eye, brainstorming, encouragement, marketing advice, and blurbs. Getting to know you all has been a blast and such an enriching experience. I look forward to many more launches as well as some upcoming conventions.

And a final thank you to the readers. The connective tissue that combines all of this into a living, breathing thing. I hope you enjoy reading A Dark Roux as much as I've enjoyed creating it. I hope you can find something of value in the crumbling LeBeau House, or maybe even something of importance deep in the bayou, lurking beneath the burned remains of the old river church. I hope you love these characters as much as I do.

Above all else, I hope you finish the book and smile at time well spent deep in the heart of Louisiana.