I am so thankful that the cover art is complete! I adjusted errors found in the interior of the book design and sent the files to the printing company last night! MILESTONE!
The art itself is absolutely stunning. Michael did such a great job! The inside of the building is so detailed. There are wood stairs, floors, and beams. You can also see decaying wallpaper on the walls. I love the detail put into each individual piece of the art.
I cannot wait to see what the actual book looks like. I’m not sure how it will feel to hold it in my hands. It seems like such a surreal idea to see a physical copy of my book. I get chills just thinking about it.
I finally publicized the Beta Reader application and already received some amazing responses. From the info written in several of the Clique (TØP fans) Beta Reader applications, I know there is confusion about the premise of the book. People familiar with TØP are reading with the notion there are rescuers who are going into DEMA to save people. The Clique has very distinct ideas of what DEMA is and who the people are that live within the walls. Rightfully so, from the music videos and demaorg website.
I took inspiration from a small portion of the larger DEMA idea and provided a very different perspective. I am anxious to hear what the Beta Readers have to say about all aspects of the novel.
Immediate next steps:
1) Approve printer proof
2) Have 15 books printed
3) Send a portion of the books off to get permission for use of names covered under copyright.
I can’t help but think about what happens if I am told no. It is difficult not to let worry and anxiety take over. My answer is generally staying very busy, so I won’t think about things too much. In my psychological opinion, I know avoidance is not good, but I also think it is bad to dwell on negative thoughts. Yup, this is when my brain reminds me that the thoughts are probably not negative, instead they are realistic. Breathe in and out and keep going. Breathe in and out and keep going. Breathe in and out and keep going.