As I prepare to leave for my next trip to Nepal, I wanted to share that I reached a major milestone on the publishing journey for my new book, Thin Air and Good Intentions. After finalizing the back cover copy and cover art, I just received the print layout proof for review. This is the entire manuscript laid out exactly as it should appear in print, but delivered as a PDF. And when I return from my trip, a freshly printed, first proof paperback copy will be waiting for me! I can't tell you how exciting it is to see this labor of love coming together.
Once I return in November we'll complete the final edits, and the book will be submitted to Kirkus Indie and Clarion for independent review. Publication trade, libraries, and booksellers heavily utilize these professional book review services when looking for quality indie books. It will be a nerve-wracking and long period; I won't see the results of their reviews until after the Christmas holidays.
So with that I bid you farewell for a few weeks. My journey to Kathmandu begins tomorrow, and by Monday we will be in the Annapurna region beginning a 21-day trek through some of the most remote and beautiful terrain the country has to offer. Coming so soon after the recent disaster, friends and family have asked how safe it is. I want to assure everyone that while these activities always carry risks, we will be a long way from the affected area.
Take care everyone and see you soon!