by Jeanne Gehret
by Jeanne Gehret
Launching a book amid a messy life
We’re halfway through the six-month launch period of my novel Born of This Fire. Part of me would love to just finish and publish, but I know this slower pace gives the book a stronger start.
Since May 31, I’ve been deep in the behind-the-scenes work: formatting pages, writing back cover copy, prepping media kits, and planning launch week like a general organizing a small war.
Launch or life? Hard to tell some days
All this, of course, happens during peak family season—birthdays, anniversaries, grandkids, a house move, reunions, and enough trees to prune to fill a small orchard. If you’re a woman over 50, you get it: some days you’re running the show, and other days you’re just trying to remember where you left your glasses. Or your phone.
Still, I wouldn’t trade this beautifully messy life for a faster book launch—because this is the life that shapes my stories.
So yes, the launch is right on schedule. Below is a teaser to give you a small preview of my cover, and next comes the more public part of the launch. And in between… maybe I’ll see you at the party store picking up paper plates.
Next month: Check in for the full book cover reveal on August 1! Can’t wait to show you!
Victorians launched young lives through education
It’s been a while since we peeked into the Victorian era—the world the Anthonys called home. As you watch the following video on 19th-century schools in Great Britain, consider how the American system of education evolved. (At this point, I don’t know. Another topic for research! If you know, please share your comments in the chat below.)
And after you’ve enjoyed the video, picture young Susan B. Anthony commanding a classroom, her father drilling spelling words, her sisters leading recitations, and her brother Daniel trying to keep a straight face while teaching rowdy students.
Yes, teaching ran in the family. Susan even became headmistress of a girls’ academy; Daniel tapped out after a few years. Can you see them with chalk in hand, trying to maintain order and dignity while wrangling a room full of squirmy students?
Footnote on my last newsletter: One observant reader reminded me that Susan B. would have been impatient to see better parity between the sexes toward equal pay for equal work. Right on!
Three Book Promotions for You
Step into a world of gripping plots, unforgettable characters, and page-turning suspense with the “Thrills, Chills & Plot Twists” book bundles!
Beginnings of Love: Sweet Romance & Women’s Fiction Origin Stories
This promotion ends July 26th
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From Historical Fiction to Cozy Mystery and Family Sagas… these “Midsummer Delights” will keep you glued to your Kindle.
Included in this offering is my novel, Secrets to the Wind. View the Books (Promotion ends July 30th)
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Take a look at these Short Stories & Novellas… Included is my story, The Urgent Pleas from Susan B.
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