I published my first book, suspense/thriller When Love Won’t Die, about ten years ago with a small press, Splice Publishing. Splice was the second small press to put out my book as the first press folded before the paperback version even hit the shelves. I will be forever grateful to Splice for taking me on and offering my debut novel in both paperback and e-book.

Being a new novelist, I entered some contests and pitch fests, resulting in winning a publishing contract with a small press. I never dreamed of garnering an agent and possibly getting a deal with one of the big five, so I didn’t even attempt querying at that level.

But, sadly, Splice closed its doors about three years after accepting my book, just at the time when I was going to pitch my second suspense/thriller to them. So, for the next few years, I worked on some new book ideas, finally finished a suspense/thriller and a psychological thriller with horror elements.

And that brings me to round two of my publishing journey. This time, I am getting ready to send out my first batch of queries to a select group of agents. This time, I’m hoping to get picked up by a bigger publisher. This time, I’m going to keep querying.

I have done the work – put in the time. Both my current novels have got through rigorous editing, including rounds with beta readers and other feedback. I feel excited about the story that each one tells and I’m excited to share them with my readers.

And while I wait, I have plans to write a gothic horror ghost story and another suspense/thriller. Both projects are already somewhat fleshed out and just waiting for my attention.

Stay tuned for updates as I share my traditional publishing journey.