My book publishing process for “Perfect Lies” is moving forward and I received my first proof copy recently from CreateSpace. I have to tell you that holding my first paperback novel in my hands was an exciting experience. I have worked on the story for so long and my wife, Janie, has been logging some pretty long hours lately helping me figure out all of the Microsoft Word details that can drive you crazy.

After the shock wore off I realized that what looks good on the computer screen doesn’t always translate well with print on demand publishing. My cover looked beautiful in PhotoShop but the dark blues came out purple. The font I chose for the first draft was Ariel and that was a big mistake.

So here is how I corrected both and what I learned since I submitted the first draft. From reading the CreateSpace forums everyone says the colors come much out darker on the physical cover. So I changed the dark blue on my cover to a blue color that is 4 shades lighter. I’m hoping it still looks like it’s dusk.

I changed the font from Ariel to Georgia and justified the margins. That gives the book a more professional look and makes it much easier on the eyes to read. I also allowed for more space at the top and bottom of the page.

I have now resubmitted both interior and cover files again to my CreateSpace account and ordered a second book proof. I want my readers to experience a quality product. Just because I’m using print on demand publishing doesn’t mean I have to settle for anything less than if my book came from a traditional publisher.

So many little technical issues continually come up but I just keep working through them until I get exactly what I want. With this being my first attempt at publishing I’m learning a lot quickly. My real reward will be when I get to release “Perfect Lies” because I know a lot of readers will love this story.

I’ve spent many long days and late nights producing this novel and I have to tell you I loved every second of it. While the mechanics of putting it together has been interesting, for me it’s all about the story. Creating new stories is what I love to do and my next novel is already taking shape.