Created and hosted by the Ninja himself, Alex J. Cavanaugh, the Insecure Writers Support Group posts the 1st Wednesday of every month. Click the image to learn more or sign up.
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Hi there all. This will be a short post of mostly pictures, but I will share my current insecurity and my current source of gratitude. Hopefully my words will encourage someone.
As the first leg of my 3-part virtual book tour for It’s Like the Full Moon launches, I find myself in a constant state of jitteriness (not even sure if that’s a word, oh well). I guess what it all boils down to is that after all this planning and time and effort, I fear people will reject my story. I’ve put together some really fun activities to pique people’s interest, but I’m afraid no one will try them because I’m no one special. I’m not a big name. There is a chance that those who’ve agreed to review it may not like it. My concern with that is will they be constructive or cruel in their review?
On the other hand, though, I’m so grateful for everyone who signed up for my tour and are helping me spread the word. I’m grateful for all the FB group members who I know will help spread the word because that’s what they do. As much as I fear the unknown, I know I have so much more to be grateful for; including the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. I’m so looking forward to that special time.
Last month was my birthday and I promised to share some pictures, so here you are.
Vinyl Records Party – dress as your favorite musical genre, era, or artist(s)
Posted by Toinette Thomas on Friday, October 30, 2015
Also, I had a small book signing/meet & greet at a local indie bookshop. I kept forgetting to take pictures, but here are a few.
The first mini tour in my It’s Like the Full Moon, pre-order extravaganza has started and you can see the lineup or follow along over at the Author Promo Co-op blog. Please check it out if you have the time. 
I’m trying to start a new bookish blog hop for anyone who might be interested. Last month was our first post and we all had a great time. It’s a great way to sample books and get an opinion on them without scouring their list of reviews. Please check out the BooktagsBlogHop.
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Do you ever worry that all your effort and planning will be rejected by others?
Is there something you are grateful for right now?
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After hanging out with Alex, be sure to stop by and visit this month’s co-hosts:
Tyrean Martinson,
Karen Walker,
Denise Covey, and
Stephen Tremp!
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Click here to visit other IWSG blogs and sites to receive and share more inspiration and support. (This month, I’m #98).
Thank you for taking the time to read this post. If you like it let me know and share it with others. See you next time, Toi Thomas. #thetoiboxofwords
11 replies on “#IWSG November 2015: Fear & Gratitude”
Hi, Toi, I don’t think we ever get over our insecurities with each book released.
I’ve found bloggers to be great at helping to spread the word about each book. I’m just too lazy to try and do tours anymore. Here’s wishing for you a successful launch.
Thanks. I appreciate your encouragement. It means a lot.
Happy belated birthday!
I wouldn’t worry so much about the reviews. If you did the best you could, no one can ask for more. Just try to learn from the feedback you are given to help you improve the next time you write. That’s really all you can do.
Best of luck on the book tour!
P.S. I’m definitely interested in your blog hop! What a great idea! 🙂
Thanks for stopping by. I would love for you to join the hop. I get so caught up in what I’m reading and writing all the time, sometimes it’s fun to see what others are into.
Have a great time on your tour! Hope people pick a cool cover.
Like your costumes.
Thanks for the encouragement. So far the cover race has been pretty close between two of them, but it’s still early. The costumes were part of my music/vinyl theme. It was fun.
Looks like you had a great birthday! (Happy belated birthday for last month!!). Best wishes for your tour.
Thank you. I appreciate the encouragement.
Happy Birthday! And way to go with getting a book signing in along with a tour!!!
Thank. I’ve been very blessed with opportunities and support.
Happy birthday again, Toi! You look amazing, and it may sound cheesy, but OF COURSE you are special.
Didn’t receive your email yet about the guest post, but I’m ready and willing to help.
Sorry it took me so long to respond. This month has been crazy!