Dear ,

Today, I’m letting my subscribers in on a secret (shush!) before anyone else knows.

I’m rebranding The Zanzibar Moon series. The decision to do this has come about after researching the best self-publishing practices. I’ve always been a sponge for learning new things. Self-publishing (and even traditional publishing) is a minefield of what to-dos, what not todos, pitfalls and wins (like making the Amazon Bestsellers List). You can read more about that in How to Self-Publish in Oz.

When I first published The Zanzibar Moon in 2017 (only $6.95 on Amazon now), it was a stand-alone novel. The only plan I had was to get my book out into the world. I’m super proud of doing that, but I could have been better (e.g. now my writing and editing has improved). Kendwa’s Secret came about to tell Kendwa’s earlier life. Then, because I loved Toby (Noah in book three,) I needed the third book Elephant Creek.

What’s wrong with them the way they are, you may ask.

They are beautiful, and it is sad to change them, but I have my reasons thanks to good research and advice.

• They have no cohesion (covers, colours, series branding).
• I can re-edit to make them better.
• The covers are similar but don’t signify a series (as above).
• Readers wanting a series may think they are stand-alone only.
• It’s challenging for buyers to know which one to read first.
• Launching as a series might find new readers.
• New readers will read in order (and hopefully buy them all), producing more sales.

Most of you have already bought my books (thank you). Maybe they will be collectors editions (I do aim to be a famous writer one day). I would not expect any of you to buy a book you have already read (unless you want to buy it for someone else or collect the new editions). With no obligation, I’d love you to share the news of my new releases as they happen. Tell your family and friends about the stories and what you loved about them.

Or, if you missed a book, I still have paperbacks of Elephant Creek (limited due to the rebranding) and can still order Kendwa’s Secret if you want to get in quick before they are gone for good. They will also be available at online bookstores (like Amazon) until they run out.

Read on to see the cover reveals. I’m excited.

Yours truly in love-stories, happiness, writing and reading,

Donna

P.S. Stay safe, healthy and happy.

Social media will see this early next week but you saw it first.

I hope you like the changes I've made. You can see the consistency in the blues, surrounding flowers, figures facing away, titles and banners. This gives no doubt to series buyers that there will be three books (Oh! Unless I give Ritchie or Jai a story. What do you think?)

My latest news

Other than rebranding I've been working with other authors helping them achieve their dreams of publication. I've designed book covers, created inside layouts, beta read, proofread and advised.

Sales of How to Self-Publish in Oz have surpassed my expectations. It remained in the Amazon #1 position on and off over the last month. I promoted differently to my novels and will try the same marketing program for the rebranded series. Watch this space!