It’s been a while (three months to be precise) since I put together a post about how my travel/sailing/adventure memoir Plunge – One Woman’s Pursuit of a Life Less Ordinary (published in November 2020) is doing. So… time for a little overview. I share this information for a few reasons: to update people interested in the journey of an indie author, to inspire/inform fellow authors about my process, successes, and failures, and to – hopefully – entice new blog readers to check out Plunge. You can find the blurb, reviews, free chapters, and more here.
My book news
As most of you know, Mark, Maya, and I have been nomads for almost twenty years and are currently “on the road” in Baja California, Mexico. This means not much is going on regarding promoting or selling Plunge, because I’m often without internet. If I don’t actively try to sell my book, not much happens. In December and January, when internet was still part of my life, these events occurred:
- I (mostly unsuccessfully) tried to encourage members of specific Facebook groups, like Women Who Sail, All Things Sailing, and Women Reading Great Books to check out my book on days when promotional posts are allowed. I’d pick an incredible photo from my sailing life and write up a compelling anecdote, putting links in the comments. Because these groups are so large, any post that doesn’t stand out immediately disappears in a big, black hole. Sometimes, a troll enjoys bashing me.
Somebody bashing my book, without even reading it. This comment was removed by the admins of this sailing group.
- Plunge was mentioned in SpinSheet, the local sailing magazine of Annapolis, MD, in January 2022. The cute city of Annapolis plays an important role in Mark and my life and a couple of the early chapters are set there. I was counting on a review in this magazine instead of a short mention, so I was a bit disappointed.
- Much worse was the undeserved and ungrounded one-star review of Plunge by Jonny B Goode on Amazon. It was a full-on attack, blatant lie, and obvious attempt to undermine my credibility as an author and sailor. I don’t think this person even read the book – he was just sick of seeing my posts (which are moderated by admins) on a sailing platform and asked a few buddies to click “helpful” on his disgraceful act to put more value to his rant. I reported this “review” to Amazon and explained why I think it is inappropriate, but they ignored me.
A demotivating one-star review
- A short review also showed up in the print and digital San Francisco Bay sailing magazine Latitude 38, which we used to read way back when and to which I contributed multiple letters over the years. This publication is mentioned in Plunge, too.
- I mailed two paperbacks to newspapers (The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post) but haven’t heard back and don’t expect to. These are total shots in the dark.
- I added Plunge to Trip Fiction and encouraged readers to copy and paste their reviews there as well. For anyone not familiar with this site: books are filed by the destinations in which they take place, so readers can choose what to read based on that criterium. I plan on adding reviews of books I read from authors who are members there as well.
- Some more positive reviews showed up on Goodreads and Amazon as well. I truly appreciate it when readers do this, as word of mouth is the best advertisement. One person even went so far as to share her insightful thoughts about Plunge on several of her social media channels and groups! Thank you, Kristi!
- Peggy from Belgium also shared her affection for my book on her page. And this comment from Jackie Lambert on Facebook made my day: “Liesbet, BTW I have just started reading your book this morning. It is AWESOME! I was gripped from the very first page. It is beautifully written, Liesbet, and really fascinating. I think you and I share some of the same DNA, although I didn’t realize until I hit 30. :-)”
Peggy’s review and boost of Plunge
- After losing confidence in my book and feeling awful because of the one-star review mentioned above, I really wanted to quit every attempt to promote my book, especially on social media. Despite most people loving Plunge, trolls can really upset an author and emotionally affect them for days, if not weeks. It took a bit of courage to create another “attractive” post and have it published (by the admins) in the All Things Sailing Facebook group. This time, my blurb and photo finally took off. What really helped were the reactions of people who thoroughly enjoyed my book and graciously shared those sentiments in the comments.
- Because of the success of this post, Plunge became a bestseller for one day and January was a fabulous month for sales.
- Fellow authors sometimes mention my book online, which is awesome!
- Amazon USA discounted my book, both paperback and eBook, unbeknownst to me. This turned out to be a good thing, since they clarified my royalties wouldn’t change during price adjustments on their behalf.
- I’ve played around with a couple of banners and a lovely blogger/writer/indie author promoter sent me a shiny, animated version of my book cover (which I posted on my personal Facebook page).
- And, I have been able to sell a few signed copies on the road in Baja again. They paid for my campground stay in Loreto, the end of January.
A travel anthology
If you crave a (virtual) trip to different places and into adventurous mindsets, I encourage you to check out the Itchy Feet travel anthology, which has been skillfully curated by artist, author, blogger, and Portugal expert Alyson Sheldrake. I am one of its twenty contributors and wrote about how I became a perpetual nomad in the chapter Born with Itchy Feet. These bite-sized stories – and online photo galleries – are sure to inspire, entertain, and transport you.
Itchy Feet cover
Here is the blurb:
Itchy Feet – Tales of Travel and Adventure
“Where’s my passport?
“I need to go traveling again…”
From the Indonesian jungle, to an epic journey out of Africa, and rafting the Zambezi, twenty intrepid and inspiring authors share their adventures with you in this anthology of travel stories.
Find out what Egypt is like in a heatwave, and hunt down Dracula in Transylvania.
Catch a rare glimpse into the lives of the last Pech indigenous people of La Moskitia, Honduras.
Experience history first-hand through four continents, three wars, and a desperate message in a bottle with a story of heartbreak, poverty, and travel in the 19th century.
Be entertained by a teenager’s first glance of foreign soil, and an Australian view of England. Ride a Harley through France and Spain and find out what makes someone a perpetual nomad.
Read Itchy Feet now to travel around the world from the comfort of your own armchair. No passport required.
Itchy Feet banner
This anthology is for sale worldwide on Amazon in paperback, hardback, Large Print, and eBook. Check it out here.
What’s Next
- I have signed up for a free book review tour organized by Nerdy Book Box. This company supports indie authors and has scheduled a tour for my memoir in May.
- Two book clubs have selected Plunge for their April reading: one is located on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Donna from Retirement Reflections is a member of this group (sorry, Donna, I don’t know the name of your club) and the driving force behind this selection. I will join the discussion for a Q&A at the end of that month. The other body picking my book is the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. I hope every new reader enjoys my story and spreads the word. 😊
Dedication
This post is dedicated to my father-in-law, Dr. Stanley Eugene Kilty, who peacefully passed away in the company of loved ones on February 9th, 2022. He was 91 years old and happily married for 65 of those.
Stanley was an incredibly smart man; kind, quiet, and always interested in what Mark, Maya, and I were up to. Once retired, he became an avid reader. He was the only person to receive an early, printed version of my Plunge manuscript and often inquired how my book was doing. This past summer he touched my heart by stepping foot out of the house for the first time in months, to attend my author booth at Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming festival. He also followed our adventures on this blog and on Facebook.
I am fortunate, humbled, touched, and grateful to have spent a lot of time with him over the years. You will be greatly missed, Stan!
March 5, 2022 at 16:39
I think you handled the troll pretty well. But it would tie my stomach in knots to deal with such criticism. I’m sorry you had to deal with it.
March 8, 2022 at 12:58
Hi Duwan!
Those awful one-star reviews still kill me. To me, it means that the book is awful on all fronts, from the writing, to the editing, to the content. That’s a tough pill to swallow after working on a creative project like this for five years. I feel that if someone doesn’t like the book, but it is written well, it deserves three or two stars. On the other hand, my tough skin is “growing.” 🙂
March 5, 2022 at 16:50
Don’t worry about the one star review. I have many of them across my four books! Most just make me chuckle.
Not nice of someone to bash you and your book like that troll did, though.
March 8, 2022 at 13:02
I wish I had your attitude about one-star reviews, Alex! Maybe I’ll get there one day. I only have one book out, so all those one-star reviews are adding up. In my mind, anyway. 🙂
March 5, 2022 at 17:41
Hi, Liesbet – My local bookclub (we don’t have an official name) is delighted to be reading Plunge for our April discussion. We are super excited that you hope to be able to join us online for a brief Q and A discussion (we hope that too)! 😀 I will send you the link and more details as we get closer to the date.
March 8, 2022 at 13:04
Great, Donna! I’m totally looking forward to this. I hope your fellow book club members enjoy the book, too. There’s always some insecurity about that. We will see what happens. 🙂 I will make it a priority to find internet on the 27th, wherever I am.
March 5, 2022 at 17:45
I’m so sorry for the loss of your father-in-law. He sounds like a wonderful man. Please pass on my condolences to Mark.
That troll was awful. People can get so nasty when they are hidden behind their computer screen. What a jerk. Brush yourself off and move on. You wrote a book for gosh sakes… he didn’t.
March 8, 2022 at 13:06
Stan was a man of few words and many thoughts, interests, and accomplishments, Janis. As a physician, one of the first to start an HMO, and a supporter of socialized medicine, he touched many people’s lives.
Good point regarding the troll, about me actually writing a book and he – probably – not. Thanks for the pep talk. 🙂
March 5, 2022 at 17:57
I’m so sorry to hear about your father-in-law. Things did not sound good from what you said before. Having recently lost a parent I know what Mark is going through and send him my commiserations, and to you too of course. As for the troll and the rude 1* review – best ignored, though easier said than done. I don’t understand people who behave like that.
March 8, 2022 at 13:09
Hi Anabel,
Thank you for your condolences. I’ve been thinking about you, losing your dear mom, as well. It seems like you were even closer to her than we were with Stan. Such a loss, but part of life. Sigh. I think the shock (for me) will happen when I return to MA to stay in our room above the garage and my FIL isn’t there anymore.
People who are turned into trolls can be real @#$&@*!
March 5, 2022 at 18:10
I’d would try to take the one star review with a gain of salt. I think every author, artist, actor/actress has them even when we know the low marks are undeserved. I considered myself to be a good teacher and the majority of my students’ parents would say the same, but I had to learn to develop some pretty thick skin at times when some unhinged parent would either come at me or my administrator. I’ll never forget the parent who burst into my room in the middle of my tutoring session after school and verbally unloaded on me. It was upsetting, but over time I learned these are isolated incidents that we have no control over. I’m sorry that the reviewer did not see your book in the same light as the rest of us.
Wishing you nothing but happy memories of your father-in-law. It sounds like like he lived a great life.
March 8, 2022 at 13:13
Hi Pete,
Thanks for weighing in. What an awful experience during your teaching years. Thing is that not only do these negative experiences affect us the most, they are also the ones that we remember, think about, and worry about.
I think if we believe in ourselves – and our positive impact on students, readers, … – taking these “isolated” experiences becomes easier. It’s just that I’ve gathered a few of those by now. When you’re a bestseller and sell thousands of copies, these one stars do become isolated… I have a long way to go, haha.
March 5, 2022 at 19:05
Hi Liesbet, first of all I am very sorry for the loss of your father-in-law Dr. Stanley Eugene Kilty. Please give my sincere condolences to Mark too.
Don’t let some troll (jerk) ever upset you. I know it’s hard when someone says untrue and unkind things, but it isn’t worth giving any thought to. You’re a good writer and have worked hard on your book. Don’t let anyone take that away from you with lies.
I have a confession Liesbet, I haven’t read your book, yet. I hope to one day. This sounds like an excuse, and yes, it is. I’m a caregiver and I don’t have time to read a book. But when I do your book is on the list of books I would love to read. I know it’s well written because you have a gift for writing. And I know it’s an interesting topic. I have pinned it on Pinterest as my small way of supporting you. Take care Liesbet.
March 8, 2022 at 13:16
Thank you for your sweet and kind comment, Lea, and for your interest in my book and writing. It’s so nice to have you in my corner!
And thank you for your service as a caregiver. You are very important in this world. Sorry to read that you have little time for books. I do hope that you manage to relax in other ways.
March 5, 2022 at 20:10
Hi Liesbet, I’m sorry for the loss of your father-in-law. Please pass on my condolences to Mark. As for the troll and 1* review, don’t let rude individuals ruin your stellar achievements. All the best with your upcoming book tour and book club Q&As.
March 8, 2022 at 13:17
Thanks a lot for your condolences and supportive comment, Natalie. I really like your word “stellar.” That is a huge compliment. I should add that word to my vocabulary.
March 5, 2022 at 20:33
That really had to be a bot–Mark McLaughlin. His complaints sounded nothing like the book I read. ‘Self-aggrandizing’? ‘Romance’? I too am crushed by 1 star reviews even when I know they’re fake. Take it from one who’s read your book–it is authentic, exciting, and fun.
March 8, 2022 at 13:19
Oh, Jacqui. You continue to make me smile. I so appreciate your feedback and input. Yes, one-star reviews really impact us, indie writers, in many ways. It must be why some people leave them – to crush authors, artists, creatives….
March 5, 2022 at 21:20
I am so sorry about Mark’s father’s passing. It sounds like he was a wonderful person and supportive friend. I think that you handles that troll gracefully. Much better than he, and the likes of him, deserve.
March 8, 2022 at 13:22
Hi Margie!
The reason that I engaged with this troll in the first place, was three-folded: to see the humor in it, to get right back at him without sounding upset (which I’m sure infuriated him :)), and to keep bumping the original Facebook post up, as each comment makes it more visible. So, by leaving these awful comments, the troll actually might have helped me sell a few copies of Plunge! The admins of the Facebook group did remove his comments at some point.
March 5, 2022 at 23:30
First of all, my condolences to you on the passing of Stan. It’s always hard to loose a family member, especially at a distance. I’m glad Mark got to spend time with him.
About the low review. Yes, I have been disappointed with some reviews, but I’ve learned to take them with a grain of salt. I’ll feel bad for a day or two and then consider that perhaps the reviewer is a mean-spirited troll, maybe even envious of what they consider my/your success.
I’ve wanted a book club to adopt my memoir, but so far it hasn’t happened. Concentrate on that. You are a fortunate indie author by any standard, and SO intentional about marketing. You rock, Liesbet. 😀
March 8, 2022 at 13:24
You have such a positive take on everything, Marian. It’s inspiring. I wish I had your wisdom and outlook. I’m getting better as I age, though. 🙂
I’m thrilled to have my book read by a couple of small book clubs. I’m a tad nervous, but everything is an adventure, right?
March 6, 2022 at 07:51
I’m so sorry to hear of the sad news about the death of your father-in-law. My thoughts are with Mark, you and the family at this sad time, Liesbet.
I’ve said it many times before (and I’m going to say it again), – you’re doing such a great job with the marketing and promotion of Plunge, Liesbet. Just look at what you’ve got planned. Don’t allow the trolls to spoil it. That’s what they want to do. I’ve had my fair share of them over on my blog, but I ignore them and find they soon move on. They hate being ignored.
Keep up the great work you’re doing. And I promise to get around to reading Plunge one day.
March 8, 2022 at 13:29
Hi Hugh!
I remember a few instances in your blog where you mentioned trolls. You have a great attitude towards them. You are so right that they want attention – or evidence that they have upset you. I’m not giving into that either.
Thank you for the compliments regarding my promotion efforts. It’s a mixed bag. I have many plans and ideas and actually need to get involved with promoting my book more these months, but it is extremely hard when being on the road without internet and heaps of (pleasant) distractions.
Yep, it’s all about a balance, but I feel like I either focus on traveling, or on writing/promoting, so I’m always missing or wanting to do one of these two things!
March 7, 2022 at 01:02
Hi Liesbet,
It’s good to read an update from you. I’ve been missing in action primarily because my email account was blocked by Microsoft for months and the only place I could get to it was on Ben’s computer! Go figure aargh…
Also been a busy time with travel and bad WiFi has plagued us (particularly at home base over the six weeks we spent in Mexico.
Anyhow all that to say when I finally accessed email yesterday you are the first blog I’m reuniting with!
So sorry to hear about Mark’s dad. He sounds like he was a very special man. Condolences to both of you!
Re the trolls … I always say “haters gonna be haters” and there plenty of them lurking out there. I’d be upset too. That’s plain mean probably coupled with some jealousy. But hey best seller for a day – I’d ride on that! Bravo!!
Much love
Peta
March 8, 2022 at 13:36
Hi Peta,
Well, I feel humbled and honored! 🙂
Sorry to read about your computer issues. That is super annoying, especially when abroad and dealing with unreliable internet.
I’ve been thinking about you and Ben as well, spotting your fabulous (Africa) photos on Instagram whenever I’m online and check that app, which I’m mostly ignoring these days. And, there’s a Global Green Trek blog post sitting in my inbox, plus a few YouTube movies to watch. For that – like you – I need better internet and for more than a few minutes at a time.
I’m looking forward to seeing and reading what you two have been up to, lately.
Keep enjoying your home continent!
March 7, 2022 at 14:56
My condolences on the loss of your father-in-law. But congratulations on getting Plunge into two book clubs – that’s great!
I know first-hand how hard it is to get over the viciousness of a trollish one-star review, and I’m sorry you have to deal with it. I guess it’s a rite of passage for published authors; but not a very pleasant one. There will always be people who love our books and people who hate them; and a whole bunch in between – just try to concentrate on reading and re-reading those good reviews! 🙂
March 8, 2022 at 13:40
Thank you for your wise words and for sharing your insights, Diane. I think memoir is a touch genre when it comes to readers appreciating the book, as there are so many different styles and topics, even within a sub-genre, like travel memoir or sailing memoir.
Some people love my honesty and voice, others seem to hate it. Even though there’s a blurb, free chapters to browse, and multiple reviews that offer a potential reader a good idea about the story, plenty of readers still seem to be surprised about a few things, like that I write about myself… Yep, it is a memoir.
March 7, 2022 at 17:18
Hi Liesbet! So very sorry to hear about your father-in-law. He sounds like he was a lovely man. And I know you’ve spent quite a bit of time with him (especially during COVID) so I’m sure it was difficult for you (and especially Mark.)
And good for you for plugging away with your book. As you said, if you don’t then too much doesn’t happen. You’ve done an incredible job marketing it and I’m hoping it continues to reward your efforts. And when are you starting the next one! Never forget “It’s the journey, not the destination!” ~Kathy
March 8, 2022 at 13:44
Hi Kathy!
Thanks for the condolences and for weighing in. I’m glad – and fortunate – to have spend so much time with my father-in-law recently. His passing makes those moments even more precious.
If I wrote another book, I need to be settled somewhere for at least a couple of years… When will that happen?? I think I will keep “creating content” for a few more years first. 🙂 I would like to spend more time promoting my book, though, but the logistics and resources don’t allow it at the moment. I sure am enjoying the travel journey!
March 7, 2022 at 21:56
I’m sorry for your loss, Liesbet Your father-in-law sounds like he was a wonderful man. And keep up with the book promotion. We all face adversary, but we keep moving forward, and as you know, good things can happen 🙂
March 8, 2022 at 13:46
Thanks for your positive words, Debra. With so many books under your belt, I’m sure you have gone through negative experiences as well. Your encouraging comment motivates me. And, you are an inspiration the way you keep writing, editing, promoting, and blogging!
March 8, 2022 at 10:59
So very sorry for your loss.
I enjoyed your book tremendously, John B Goode is an ass, no one would put any value on someone that doesn’t even use his real name.
I hope you keep on sharing your adventures!
March 8, 2022 at 13:49
Thank you so much for letting me know you enjoyed Plunge, Darlene. Those positive comments and statements make me smile and encourage me to keep going. 🙂 If you haven’t already, please consider posting a quick review on Amazon; this helps tremendously.
And, no worries, I will keep sharing my adventures. This blog will be the last thing standing, haha.
March 9, 2022 at 19:18
I believe any successful book is subject to a bad review. That said, from what I could read, this guy was a loser and who knows why he went after your book? I remember feeling sad and bugged after I would get a bad review from a student after what was a wonderful semester…funny how we focus on the bad and not ALL the good ones. Don’t ever give up, Liesbet! It is not easy to promote a book, especially under your nomadic circumstances. I know you are enjoying your incredible life with your favorite peeps!
March 9, 2022 at 19:20
I meant to add that I’m sorry to read about your lovely FIL, Liesbet. HIs support and fatherly place in your life is something you will always cherish.
March 13, 2022 at 16:02
Thank you for your condolences and kind words, Terri. Like so many of our amazing family members, he will be remembered with fondness.
March 13, 2022 at 16:01
It is interesting how we, human beings (and perfectionists) focus on the negative reviews and comments. It’s almost like we expect ourselves to fail and when that is “confirmed” by a bad review (of which I have collected a handful now!), it makes sense. While when people leave positive feedback, it confirms our success and then the imposter syndrome kicks in. Why do we do this to ourselves, right?
You are so right about the three of us having a nice time in Baja right now. I shouldn’t feel too guilty about taking a break from work…
March 9, 2022 at 20:38
I’m in awe of your tireless efforts to promote Liesbet. You’re a dynamo! And yes, it only takes one mean unjustified shitty review to make us doubt ourselves. I’m glad you soldiered on. And my condolences to you and Mark for the loss of his father. <3 xx
March 13, 2022 at 16:04
I’m glad you think I’m energetic, Debby. This post was merely a little overview of an ENTIRE three months of doing a little bit here and there. Soon, Plunge will have to take its course without too many interventions, because that dynamo is losing its charge and has to focus on life on the road and new adventures, which require lots of planning, logistic hurdles, and heaps of work (and money).
March 11, 2022 at 15:11
Ugh- trolls are the worst. I don’t know what they get out of it. And it was really interesting to see the marketing strategies you have used. It will pay off- but I get not being able to do that without internet. Good luck! And enjoy your travels!
March 13, 2022 at 16:07
Hi Miffie! Thank you for swinging by and leaving a comment. I have no idea what trolls get out of their nasty behaviors. Maybe just the thought of being able to belittle others and make them feel bad? They sure need some positive energy sent to them. I hope karma will do its job and make them feel like they make us feel once in a while… Thanks for the wishes. We are in La Paz, Baja California now, slowly making our way back north to the US.
March 11, 2022 at 20:57
Hi Liesbet, I always love how you describe the multifaceted layers of your journey – life, finances, travels, book, and all the ins and outs. You paint a real picture of the ‘ups and downs.’ I will hunt for “Itchy Feet.” Sounds like a great book, especially “from the comfort of your own armchair.”
My sincere condolences to you and Mark on the passing of your father-in-law. Wow, how he made the challenging journey to attend your author booth.💕 I love the photos you include here, Liesbet. Your integrity, thoughtful nature, and genuine warmth always show in your writing and your words. Hugs to you and your loved ones. 💕
March 13, 2022 at 16:11
Hello Erica,
You have a way with words and kindness in your comments (and emails). There are so many layers to this lifestyle that I’d have to constantly write (which I already do in my diary) and post photos on this blog to do it justice. I wish I could document and share more of that, but then there would be little time left to experience all those facets myself. 🙂
Thank you for the condolences and the hugs. It looks like 2022 is not treating us and you that much better than last year so far, when it comes to personal issues and challenges… Yet, we are enjoying our time in Baja! xox back at you.
March 14, 2022 at 13:28
Hi again, Liesbet, The “like” button on my end does not always seem to work…thank you for your response. XOXO
March 14, 2022 at 13:44
Thanks, Erica. Your “like” button worked on my end! 🙂
March 13, 2022 at 23:31
Liesbet,
Try and remember whenever you think of the idiot how few people can actually write a book, let alone have the know how and confidence to self-publish and then promote it. And YOU were able to do it by following through on your dreams to see your memories challenge others. I say, kudos to you.
I, too, am sorry for your and Mark’s loss as his dad’s absence will be felt by his loved ones for a long time.
March 14, 2022 at 12:44
Thank you for your kind words and support, Annie. It is so easy to focus on the negative reviews and responses. They seem to stay with us longer than all the positive feedback. Not sure why. I guess memoir authors are extra vulnerable, especially because our stories are so personal. Therefore the attacks are not only towards our writing but towards our personalities as well.
May 12, 2022 at 17:44
Was looking for some takes regarding this topic and I found your article quite informative. It has given me a fresh perspective on the topic tackled. Thanks!
May 13, 2022 at 11:27
My pleasure. I’ll check out your website one of these days. 🙂
May 18, 2022 at 12:19
I have been reading posts regarding this topic and this post is one of the most interesting and informative one I have read. Thank you for this!
May 19, 2022 at 20:25
Hi Frank,
Thank you for swinging by Roaming About and leaving a comment. I’m glad my post was helpful. Of course, any indie author faces different challenges, has different priorities, and feels comfortable with different levels and kinds of promotion.