New YA author

by George Matthew Cole
(Burien, WA)

New YA author

I am a new self-published author. My first novel "Colt O'Brien Sees the Light" has been published since Dec. 2009. Print and E-Book versions are available

I wanted to pursue something creative before I retired which I now am. I tried out a creative writing class and was hooked almost immediately. I wrote one short story and then started my novel. After the class ended most of the students formed a writing group that has been very helpful for feedback and moral support. After years, we still meet bi-weekly.

I like the process of writing and was thrilled when I held my first baby in my hand. I based my story on something I was familiar with but made it fictional. I am very happy with the outcome because I feel my book is very readable and easy to follow. I did not set out to create a Young Adult book. After it was written I was told that was where it would fit. I have look at definitions of what YA is and it does seem to fit very nicely.

After hearing how difficult it is to get published through the traditional process with agent and publisher, I opted to self-publish. The experience was easy in some ways but frustrating in others. I am happy with the finished product. However, the time it took to have my book in hand was much longer than I expected.

Marketing is a whole other world that I am now entering.

I expect that many authors, like myself, would rather write and not do the business end. It is vast with numerous opportunities to spend money and waste time. Many review sites, for instance, not only want free books but also a fee to review a book. Advertising opportunities abound. Too many choices and too much information. I have started with seeing what free things are out there. Ex. Social networking, free review sites, web page, etc. It is going slow but I am told perseverance pays off.

Am available through my web site to discuss any of the above.

Regards
George Matthew Cole

GeorgeMCole.com