It's as if the global re-set button has now been pushed (to quote Caitlin Moran in the Times). Well, sort of, but here we are, two weeks into an almost dystopian alternative world and most people's lives have changed in ways many of us could never have imagined. What better time than now to rush through the release of my new thriller?! Er . . .
Rather than a leisurely, orderly wait until the end of May, getting giveaways planned, a few book reviewers lined up and then release the book in time for June, this new thriller of mine hits the shelves next week. Am I crazy? Possibly, but why not? Many people are stuck at home, looking for distractions from the terrible news stories that journalists seem to enjoy pumping out. I hope that this could be one such distraction. Set in Istanbul, Moscow, London and Venice, I hope that readers will find this a thumping good read.
As of today, the e-book is available for pre-order on Amazon. You can also buy a paperback version, although Amazon advise that, because of COVID-19 effects, printing is no longer so much on demand - more about when they can slot it in with any printers that are working. I ordered a copy yesterday for my mother and was given a delivery date of early May. Mmm.
I am often asked why my thrillers aren't available in other stores? I have dabbled with Apple books and Kobo and the like in the past: the sad reality is that Amazon are hugely dominant. They have distribution power and promotional muscle that leaves others standing. If I go exclusively with Amazon, they give extra benefits and promotional opportunities to me as an Indie author. Especially on or around release period. So, forgive me if you shop elsewhere out of preference. For the moment, Amazon is the place to go for my books.
Finally, a big plea! the sooner you buy and review my book in this first month post launch, the more likely that Amazon will promote me and encourage others to buy. If you are able to post me an early review (in the first month, post release would be super-helpful), then thank you. Please, do let me know what you think of the Stand-In!