"Did ya know your second cousin is published?

That was what my grandpa, "Papa" Bart asked me when I told him my manuscript was nearly complete.

"Did ya know your second cousin is published?"

"Grandpa" I thought, "I'm not even sure what a second cousin is."

He told me more about her, a woman named Charlie I was somehow related to because someone's brother met someone else's sister and 30 something years later their daughter was publishing books like "The Paper Magician" and getting rights bought by Disney. I was intrigued at this sudden new relation, and after a few emails here and there, Charlie and I had a lunch appointment.

I owe it to good 'ol 2nd cousin Charlie Holmberg for giving me direction on how to begin the publishing process. She loaded me with awesome references, useful experiences, and veteran tips on how to make it in the publishing world. To boot, all this happened over a delicious piece of quiche she bought me at a nearby french restaurant. 

Aspiring authors like me are out there, everywhere. If you're also dreaming of seeing your story in hardback at Barnes&Noble, you've come to the right place. After Charlie's coaching and embarking on my own publishing path, I've happened on nugget after nugget of tips and tricks I'd like to pass it on to you. I can't provide quiche for everyone, but hopefully the information you find in this blog is just as appetizing.

Bon Appetit! 

(If you want to read some of Charlie's works, you can check them out at the following website:)