My First Publication - Denis McCarthy

What was the book called and what was it about?

My first book is Lyngate Woods. It's the first part of a trilogy which focusses on Rob Hills, who is triggered into a mission by his fiancee rejecting him.  This leads to him going on a spree to rid young women like his ex-girlfriend, who tease and taunt men like him. Some vicitims he sexually assaults before killing them, some he kills them with a ferocity that leaves policy disgusted. He also gets victims to video call their relatives or friends before he kills them, while they're on the call. He leaves clues for the police who eventually see a pattern. There are sub-plots withint the book which add to the story and the trilogy. The second book will focus on ethical crime. You will have to read to first book to see if Rob is involved.

Who published it or was it self published?

Self published on Amazon.

How did it feel having that completed book with a front cover?

It was great to see my book in print as such. Even seeing it on Amazon was great. I did the cover myself as well.

Talk to us about the publication day itself.

I kept not wanting to press that button but in the end, who dares wins.

If you could give any advice to those yet to have their first book publication day, what would it be?

If you can self-publish do so. If you want to go to the traditional route, keep at it. Don't let rejections get you down.  If you believe in your book then do not give up. 

For those self-publishing, I would say check, check and when you're satisfied check again. If you can get some people to read what you've done. Honest feedback is invaluable though. The author can get lost in the story, so it's good to get as much feedback as you can before publishing.