As an author in this economy, you have to come up with creative ways to market your self-published book. While book tours are a great way to connect with your readers, they aren’t the most affordable method of promotion. However, technology has made it possible for an alternative.
Take note from self-publishing Outskirts Press author, Betty Byrd, who is taking her latest book, Utopia Texas, on tour – a virtual tour, that is. She will be featured on several blogs over the weeks and months ahead so keep your eyes peeled to learn more about her and her book.
Luckily for us, Betty was kind enough to answer a few questions as the tour was getting started so that we can give you a sneak peek into the mind of the creator of Utopia Texas
OP: Tell us a little bit about Utopia Texas. What is it about?
BB: Black Gold, Brazen Greed, AND Hidden Abuse
OP: Why did you decide to write this story?
BB: To share with the world what it’s like to live with the stigma of schizophrenia.
OP: What types of readers would be interested in this story?
BB: Both women and men who have survived the deformities of life.
OP: What is special about your book? What differentiates it from other books in the same category?
BB: My book is special because it shows the monstrous side to mental illness and if untreated what it can do to a family. Very few people have been able to discuss, let alone tell the tale because it is so bizarre.
OP: Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?
BB: Yes, in 2004 I published the novel Trinity’s Daughter which is the precursor to Utopia Texas.
I’m currently writing a third novel, a global thriller – If a series of cataclysmic events happened at the same time, the United States, as we knew it, would end.
OP: Thanks for your time, Betty! We look forward to learning more about you as you visit other bloggers!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Betty Byrd is one cat that has truly lived nine lives. The first life was that of a jock, where Betty found herself excelling as a competitive swimmer, field hockey player and cheerleader. Through college, she began to realize that her creativity was too strong to ignore. After graduating from the University of Arizona with a Creative Writing degree, Betty packed up her cowgirl life and headed to Ohio to pursue graduate work at Ohio State University. She put her degree to use quickly when she landed jobs as an editor for The Spectator, Ohio’s largest weekly newspaper, and freelancing for a national men’s magazine. After having some success as a writer, Betty yearned for another creative outlet, that of a performing artist.
Blonde locks in tow, she left her mid-west roots for Southern California. Hollywood took a liking to the spunky blonde actress who’s resume includes a role on the television series Gunsmoke, as well as featured roles in numerous films, mini-series, and commercials. Betty took a bow as the curtain closed on her acting career when she decided to take on the hardest challenge yet, that of a mom. Once her daughter was in high school, Betty once again felt that creative itch. This time she picked up a pen and returned to writing. Her first novel titled, Trinity’s Daughter, was well-received as she traveled throughout America on a book tour and was honored back at home in San Diego. She is also a recipient of a first place award for her new novel, Utopia, Texas at the prestigious Santa Barbara Writer’s Conference. She is still featured in newspapers, television and radio talk shows, although now as an established author.
Betty Byrd contently lives in San Diego with her husband and German Shepherd, constantly creating and never letting the pen leave the page.
You can find Betty on the Web at bettybyrd.com
For more information or to contact the author, visit www.outskirtspress.com/utopiatexas
This author purchased the Virtual Book Tour marketing option, which allows self-publishing authors to connect with bloggers and harness the power of the blogosphere by taking their book on the “virtual road”. Learn more about this service by visiting your Publishing Center and reviewing the available marketing options.
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