HOPE YOU ARE ENJOYING THE SUMMER!
I’ve spent the last 23 years practicing Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, but I’ve become “book smart” in the last two. That is to say, I am now a published author. Blood Memory Society, Book I is set for release on Sept. 23.
In this inaugural newsletter, I want to share a bit of my journey. But first let me assure my current (and future) patients that I am keeping my day job. My dental practice in Jacksonville Beach, FL, as well as my involvement in professional and educational organizations, continue to be my primary career and my patients are my top priority.
A Second Education When I embarked on the path of becoming a published author, little did I know that I would need an education in a new industry – publishing – one that was totally foreign to me and one that has been experiencing a huge metamorphosis.
Two years ago, I started pitching my novel to various New York agents, many of whoM were very interested in the theme of my novel. However, the idea that memories are not limited to your own life seemed too odd to them and they were not willing to take a chance on an unknown author.
My novel contends that memories extend back in time through ancestral lineage creating superior intellect and searing recollections from the past. I based this work of fiction on two factual premises: 1) Mitochondrial DNA has a strange evolution. The DNA that exists inside our mitochondria is much different than the rest of our body’s DNA. 2) Genetic memory exists in the animal world. Researchers have known for years that insects, mice and even elephants can pass along certain knowledge to their offspring that is much more than instinct. But I digress…more about the science in Newsletter #2.
As I connected with more and more literary agents, I learned a great deal. I started my journey thinking that a traditional publisher would be thrilled with my book and be the only avenue for publishing. I was wrong on both counts.
Traditional vs. Indie Publishing
My experience has taught me that these days traditional publishers tend to be more focused on the ‘name’ authors with proven track records. In this changing environment and especially with the thriller genre, publishers are less apt to take a chance on an unknown author until he or she has proven they are marketable. Being an unknown author myself, this seemed like daunting news. Then I discovered that indie publishers had taken a chance on these “unknowns,” e.g., John Grisham – A Time to Kill; E.L. James – 50 Shades of Grey; and Amanda Hocking – The Trylle Series. While I am in no way comparing myself to these wildly successful best-selling authors, the shear fact gave me hope that perhaps an indie publisher was a viable route for my first book.
And in fact, it was. I found that the tremendous ability and flexibility of indie publishers (more often smaller operations) to produce highly professional books in shorter timeframes is impacting traditional publishers (usually larger powerhouses). Consequently, more up-and-coming (and even established) authors are pursuing the indie publishing route. I found a great fit for my book with Giro di Mondo, an indie publishing services company based on Amelia Island, FL. The team at Giro di Mondo has worked one-on-one with me to tailor and implement a publishing plan unique to my first book. I know these folks on a first-name basis, and they know me as not only as a client but as a first-time author who truly wants to make a go with a book he believes in. As a doctor, I know the value of personal attention.
Book Release and Celebration
Blood Memory Society, Book I is set to be released for general distribution on Sept. 23, by Indie Publisher Giro di Mondo. My wife Carla and I just received our advance reader copies, and we are so excited that this story will soon be shared with everyone. Early reviewers are giving the book very high marks…
“Blood Memory Society combines the elements of sci-fi, adventure, and thriller genres to take you on a rollercoaster ride of a lifetime.” —5 stars, Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews
“The plot is deep and intriguing…characters are well developed….” —5 stars, Bestsellers World
We are hosting a book launch celebration Sept. 23 at Salt Life Food Shack, 1018 3rd St., N., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. More details to come on this event, as well as other stops that are shaping up for my book tour.
I do hope you’ll follow my journey over the next several months.
I want to share one thought as I conclude my first newsletter as a published author:
“While there are some deeply satisfying aspects to holding an actual book that contains a story with my own words and hearing positive feedback from review organizations, I know that the real proof is YOU, my readers, and what you think. I truly look forward to your questions and comments over the course of the next few months.”
Please visit my website – www.dafield.com – to read an excerpt of Blood Memory Society.