How I got my book deal
I actually struggled to write this week’s blog post, which is odd because last week I actually got, and shared, the best news:
My first book has finally found a publisher home! 🎉
AGAIN ONLY MORE LIKE YOU will be published by Rising Action and available in bookstores April 2025!!!!
It’s been a journey for sure, with super highs, and major lows. We started out of the gate strong, and that was followed by disappointments as none of the Big Five publishers (which have since become the Big Four) picked it up, despite having one of the top literary agents at one of the top literary agencies campaigning for my book.
I share this because my story is not uncommon. Even some of my favourite authors and mentors have had to look outside this elite group to place their books in the hands of readers. Interestingly, often, it’s these books that scoop up the awards and develop cult-like followings (ahem, Colleen Hoover?).
The timing for my book deal was interesting as well—it came just as I was *this* close to self-publishing my book.
For many of the authors that I coach and work with, self-publishing offers more control over their brand, and business, than any publisher could ever provide. And there’s the immediate gratification too, as you don’t have to wait the 2 years that’s standard with traditional publishing to see your book come out. The entrepreneur in me was excited to see what I could do on my own, and I am a bit of a control freak ;)
Still, I’m thrilled about where I landed. A small press offers the intimate relationship with a team and readers that I desire. I have a more significant say than I would had I gone with a traditional publisher, I retain more of my rights and I still have a fantastic team of editors, publicists and production managers to support me the entire way through.
You’re in the right place if you want to follow along on my publishing journey—I’m happy to continue sharing as I embark on this new stretch as we move closer to my book launch.
And if you have any questions in the meantime, you know where to find me. I’m still answering my own emails (you can reach me at hello@passionprojectpod.com), at least for now ;)
Cat xo
PS: Stay tuned for my next live event and interview series, launching June 14, to learn all about launching, marketing and selling your book. Details coming soon!