The Johnny Denovo Mysteries

I think any author is concerned primarily about a few key aspects of publishing their writings: Will the book sell? Will the reviewers like it? Will readers like it and want more?

So far, with “Spam & Eggs: A Johnny Denovo Mystery,” I’m satisfied with 2/3 of the equation (I won’t know sales figures for a while yet).

Reviewers have been lavish in their praise (of originality, plot, writing, characters, and pacing). I really couldn’t have imagined better reviews.

And readers have been enjoying the book. It’s been a lot of fun getting phone calls, shout-outs on the street, and emails from readers who have had a lot of good things to say. And judging from the tone of voice and spontanaeity, there’s a lot of enthusiasm and interest in the series.

What a relief!

One of the greatest fears of any writer is, I believe, silence — even negative feedback might indicate interest, reaction, response. But silence means the work left no mark, created no interest, left readers cold.

So to have enthusiastic, spontaneous positive reactions — well, it makes the task of finishing the second book, “The Green Monster,” all the easier.

I’ve posted an excerpt from the upcoming sequel online.