I believe that their first book signing is every new authors
dream. Given this tenuous market where many booksellers have closed their doors
and others are struggling to keep theirs open, I discovered that my forgone
conclusion of having such signings might not be the norm. When Casa de Naomi:
The House of Blessing released, my publisher suggested I look at niche markets,
which I did. The amazing experiences that followed were as varied as the colors
of the rainbow and as lovely. Yet I longed, as I believe all authors do, for
that illusive bookstore that would host me and rejoiced when my wish came true.
Upon receiving notification that The Book Corral would host
a signing and seeing that they were local, I hopped into my car, drove to the
location, and meet Chris who manages the place. Our impromptu meeting left no
doubt as to his standing as a bibliophile for he was both well read and knowledgeable
about the books within the Corral’s walls. When I discovered that he was a
writer, I knew that as we spoke of the event, his heart and mine were in sync. By
the time I left I knew that The Book Corral was the right place for me to have
my first bookstore signing. I must admit that I looked forward to the event so
much that I dropped by once more and meet David, who like Chris is an avid
reader, extremely knowledgeable and helpful to all that cross the bookstores
threshold, and also a writer.
When Saturday dawned gray and rainy, I hoped inclement
weather would not dampen the event. My fears were not realized. For as I
watched many entered the establishment looking for this or that book and the
staff, which I soon discovered were all related to “Book Mom - Tina” as Chris
called her, greeted and offered to assist each person. Having, once upon a
time, worked in a bookstore I found their manner gracious, caring and most
important of all, not clinging. Many who came commented on the new location
(they had moved a few doors down so they could bring in more books) and the new
ownership. To welcome those that stopped by they had a fresh pot of coffee,
cookies, and sweets as well as punch for the younger crowed.
Since my table was situated
towards the back, I set up while speaking with Tina’s teenage daughter,
Madison, a young lady who's already thinking about preparing for a career, with a winsome smile that sets all who might be off-put by such as youngsters focus on the future at ease. Then I took some bookmarks and walked around. I greeted people, gave
them a bookmark, mentioned why I was there, and invited them to drop by my
table once they were done with their browsing. A few did, and when one person
bought a book, I was in author heaven! Then the unthinkable happened! I heard
Chris greet, and offer to help two women as they came in. Each held up the half
sheet flier The Book Corral had sent, and insisted, “We’re here to see Paula
Rose Michelson!” Having heard their comments, I stood and walked forward to
greet the ladies who were eager to hear about my writing journey. After they
each purchased a copy of my novel there was a lull. When two other women came
in looking for me, I knew I was living every authors dream! Those at The Book
Corral must have felt the same way because I’m scheduled to return on Saturday, May 19,
2012 from 1-3 for another book signing. I look forward to seeing you there.
The Book Corral is located at: 25571 Jeronimo Rd., Ste
4 , Mission Viejo , CA 92691
Casa de Naomi: The
House of Blessing is available on Amazon. Now offering a free download chapter
one onto you Kindle.
An illegal immigrant
Bound by secrets
Trapped by choices
An arranged marriage
A forbidden love
The Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book Trailer
is Posted on YouTube
To Watch enter http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5uckLDfMaM
into the URL Field
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