Good evening everyone,
Like I posted last night that I had lots of things to share… so here I am!! To share all that is going in my life and keep you updated with the developments at the book front, different blogs, and everything else in my life.
First thing first, I have hopefully replied to everyone on the last post. If I haven’t, tag me there. I might have missed your message. It feels so great when all of you read the updates and write back. It gives me feedback and also keeps me updated that you are reading the story.
I love replying to you. Since always!!
So, when I don’t reply, I feel bad more than you 🙂
Coming to my novel The Masquerade – Thank you for the amazing response to the cover and the blurb. It has been incredible. I knew that you will like it but the positive responses have been tremendous and so motivating. It feels so so so good. Because it took me so many days to finalize a mask for the cover. I had a set picture in my mind – greenish background, a jungle, a mysterious setup, and a mask with a metallic finish. I must have scanned around hundreds of masks to zero in on that.
So, yeah! it feels great to see it being accepted. But the entire credit goes to the cover designing team who took that mask and elevated it to a higher level, altogether. I was awestruck at the final result.
Once the Writing part of a book is completed, it goes for multiple rounds of Editing, followed by Quality Check, followed by Interior Designing, that includes font, size, setting, chapter setup, etc. Cover Design part happens in parallel to the above. When all that is done, the book is sent to be Listed at Amazon, Flipkart, etc for sale.
From our side, ALL that is done and the book is sent for listing. In pre – COVID times, listing and availability took only a few days. But my publishing manager told me today that Amazon has closed its listing as the delivery of books is a big issue during this time and the lockdown has extended for another month. At this stage, I don’t even know what will happen.
All I know that the book is queued at Amazon and once it is listed, it will be available to us to have it. On my part, I have decided not to think much about how it could have happened smoothly if corona wasn’t there, how it got delayed, and kept getting in some issue or the other, how the delivery and other services will be affected. There is no point in thinking about all that.
Neither the disease is our fault nor the lockdown. It’s always important to do your part well, in the best possible way and leave the rest for God to take care.
That’s all we have. And we need to make the best of all that we have. Instead of cribbing for what we don’t have. So, yes, hopefully, it’s 15th July, but really not sure if this date is the final one. Whether it will be listed before or after that. But hope for the best and hope that the book is released somewhere in July, at least.
Other than that, my medical blogs and online consultation is running smooth so I’m peaceful there.
I’ve finished all that I had to do. I can finally breathe in peace. And the best part is that I have kept myself comparatively free for this month – to promote the book, post creatives, posters, giveaways, trailers,and teasers, and to interact with all of you.
I will be here on my blog every night, after 8:00 IST, to talk to you and post something about the book and writing.
And yeah… updates too 😀 😀
Now, that I have segregated time and kept myself free, how can I not write 💖😀 I will be writing my stories and write-ups here.
Let me know if you want me to write on any topic. I will take that topic and write about what I know, in case you want to know about something.
I’m also planning to read a few pages of The Masquerade as a podcast as a promotional strategy to let more people know about my book. I might start posting tomorrow, depending on how it goes.
I don’t know what else to do – maybe ask a few book bloggers to leave honest reviews once the book releases. And post the videos I made on my social media handles. I didn’t do it last time.
That was all about the book and the blogs.
Regarding Covid, my area is no more in the containment zone. However, it is still on high alert. the cases are on a rise. But better than other parts of India. Do let me know how things are going at your end.
Most of all, the mental health issues, depressions, anxiety, and frustrations are on an all-time high during this pandemic. Suicide rates have gone up and psychological disorders are up by 200%. In case, any of you is feeling low, restless, or depressed, know that you are not alone. Talk to someone close to you. Stay calm. Eat well. Sleep well and try to make a routine that helps you stay on track. Just don’t lose yourself in this stressful situation.
We have to do our best with all that we have in hand… that’s all we can do…
Have patience. Things will be better soon.
Stay safe. Stay blessed. Take care.
Love you all.
M.
i browsed through the comment shared and enjoyed the camaraderie and encouragement. I think this is something everyone needs, especially creative folk like writers who need companionship of well wishers to motivate and encourage the way forward, at times writing can become lonesome. so i sincerely applaud all Manita’s followers for being such brilliant sports and cheering her on…Manita, not sure what the status of your book is, but I want to encourage you to stick with it, a little delay may help you edit it further and refine things which in hindsight might make the difference between a regular book and a best seller…..so go for it….give it your best….look forward to your success…
Thank you, Sophia. This is so sweet of you.
My book released on July 14th and is doing well, by God’s grace.
Thanks again for visiting the blog and some brilliant advice in writing and publishing. All the best.
Take care 🙂
Di when will you update Love, Lies and Etc ??
Yes di even i was about to ask the same…
I will update it on Sunday 🙂
Hi Di. Hope you’re doing good. Also I’m happy for you that your place is not containment anymore, but in my case as I’m in Chennai Tamil Nadu and that too in Anna Nagar the covid cases are increasing by the day. Also there are more no. Of cases in the next street of mine. The other side I hope you got to know about saathaangulam issues which is getting bigger n bigger. I really don’t know what’s gonna happen in the upcoming months. Ive personally never felt this low and depressed as no problems of mine got over. I thought this 2020 all my personal and family issues will get sorted but nothing changed due to covid. Also don’t know when will it get sorted. Even though I’m having some friends I don’t know with whome to share my problems. Just wanted to speak to someone so I’m writing this to you. Also all the very best for you book. Don’t know when will I get the book as in my zone except for groceries, Amazon is not delivering anything. So when the things get normal I’ll definitely get your book n give you your feedback, even before reading I can definitely say it’s gonna rock. My best wishes Di. Lots of love.😘😘😘
Hey Shewani,
We are all here for you. You are not alone. And trust me, you are not the only person in this pandemic who is feeling low and depressed. It has been too stressful for all of us. Many people have lost lives, many have lost loved ones, jobs, future career prospects… it has been a really really tough time.
But it is a time to hold on too. Just be a little stronger. We will make it through.
All we need to do is keep doing our duties and all that we are supposed to do. Have patience. This time will pass too.
I know, it has been difficult in Chennai. I am in touch with close friends staying there so I can say that I know what you are going through. The situation is more or less same everywhere.
Stay strong. And if you still don’t feel better, talk to someone close who understands you and your current state.
We are all here, anyway.
Loads of love for you 🤗🤗🤗
Stay safe💖💖💖💖
Thank you so much Di. I’ll definitely take your words. Love you 😘😘
Stay blessed. All my prayers and best wishes are with you 🤗🤗🤗
Once again congratulations and also All the best for the book….I am sure the book will be widely accepted by all….
I am also happy to know that your area is no longer in the containment zone…really hoping and pray eagerly. for this situation not to worsen
And also, thank you di for always being with us. Each post of yours renders in me a positive vibe and I feel as though you are a part of my family. Thank you for being there and also for the assurance that you are there to hear us;
God bless you and your family di..Stay safe and also know that just as you have our back, we have yours too…Love you di..!!!
God bless you too dear. Thanks for telling me that you are there for me. It means so much and makes me feel so so so good.
If you feel like I am a part of your family, then trust me, it is because I genuinely care about people who reach out to me.
I keep thinking about people who write to me and hope and pray that they are well.
Wish you all the best 💖💖💖
Stay safe. Lots of love.
Good to know that things have fell in place for you , M. Am very excited for the book. Yes, you are right ; rather than thinking how better we would have done if things didn’t go out of our control, (not only in this covid situation but day to day) one should make a habit of appreciating “All that we have” … i said “habit” bcos it can’t happen overnight and mind keeps playing…
In Australia, in Victoria state, cases are on raise (2 digits). I live in Brisbane, Queensland and no new cases.. it’s under control but neighbouring state is no good. Premier announced the border will be opened for all other states except for Australia. Still working from home; Asish is back to school and soccer training.. Payal’s Uni is all online. Right now, term break and holidays.
Glad to know about you. Things are getting back on track at some places. While worsening on the other end. Slowly, the cases will reduce everywhere.
Till then, we have to keep patience.
And yes, make it a habit to think positively.
Praying for your health and safety 💖💖
First feeling is I am so so proud of you di regarding the book launch and work behind it …the second feeling is happiness because you being online with us from 8 now on…so so happy….third feeling is excitement about the podcast part…fourth feeling is thrilled about the updates..totally totally savage you are di..I have become fida of your personality lifestyle n your writing..keep it going and there’s always something good kept in store for all of us and stay positive regarding the book launch date di..it will be released as per schedule..will pray for it…thku thku thku for everything…regards Priya..
The same I have to say to you, Priya – Thanku, thanku, thanku for everything.
Your post is so full of positivity and happiness too. ”
I’m glad that I’m more available here to interact with all of you, find out ways to promote the book, be there to talk generally and write more…
It gives me another high to write and connect with all of you.
Hope you are fine. Stay safe and blessed 💖💖🤗🤗
Yes di i am damn excited for the book launch..Just can’t wait…
So good to see you interacting here. We are always up for whatever you wish to write. Podcast idea will definitely work. And don’t worry now or later, once the book gets published it will get it’s due rewards. Sooner or later, sincere efforts don’t go waste
Thank you for those lovely words for my book and my work.
True. I’m banking on my honest and sincere hard work.
Love you loads 💖💖
Good night people. Thanks for responding. Will be here tomorrow, for more.
Love you all.
Take care 🤗🤗
Podcast idea is really good and I think it will promot your book.
Don’t worry about delay in publication of your book. Let it go by its way. God must have something good for your book and delay in publishing.
Glad to know everything about your work sorted and about your area is safe now. Still take care.
Our area is relatively safe but still lockdown and restrictions are there.
Yeah. Even I think like that. I have complete
d the work on my part. It has finished on my end. Now rest lies in God’s hands and he must have planned something 🙂
True. Lockdown and restrictions stay here as well. But since there is no new case in our locality we are able to get the basics.
Thanks for liking the podcasts idea. Might start recording it.
All the best di❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️…I’m waiting for this book😍😍😍😍..if this book will be available in Kindle???
Take care🤗🤗🤗
Yes Aabitha, it will be available on Kindle.
thank you 💖💖
Thank you di🤗
I am v glad to know that ur area is no more in containment zone.. Here in chennai u know about it 😩😩 things are more difficult, let’s hope for the best.
Yeah, I’ve heard so much about Chennai. Please take care all of you based in Chennai. It is getting scary there and mainly in all Metros.
Sorry, I am replying late. My internet connection is poor today.
I had time today and I sat specially to talk to all of you about so many things … only to face a poor internet… hamesha aisa hi hota hai… why?
Phewww!!!
Sure di, not stepping out of the house. We are cautious about everything. Please don’t say sorry, it’s fine. I know that aaj nahi toh tomorrow u will reply 😁 so no need to be sorry… Good night
Take care 🤗🤗🤗
Thank u and this means a lot❤❤
Hey even i stay in chennai…Where you put up..Heard it’s really bad there..As currently i am in my hometown bangalore…Dunno how will I get back to chennai..
If it’s not urgent, then I suggest u to stay back in bangalore.. Once the situation settles, return back to chennai..
Sure thku ..
Thank god dii your area is out of containment zone and you all are safe:)and i really really hope the book will be listed on 15th only❤️i m so excited for the book🤩and the podcast idea is really good dii bcz the book is already interesting and if u do the podcast of some chapters it will make people more interested in it..and i m so glad your online clinic is going good now:)
here cases are increasing though but we are fine thankfully and all of us are taking care as much as we can😅
Hopefully this pandemic gets over soon!
Stay safe dii:) love you❤️
Thank you so much for the wishes… I really really hope that it is on 15th… fingers crossed…
Stay safe. the cases are rising. Hope the pandemic gets lost soon.
About the podcast – I will record a part and see how it goes… love you 🥰🥰🥰
I love this positive quality of urs ❤ happy to know that everything from ur side regarding the book is done. Hopefully we will have it next month. As u are free now, it’s time to promote about the book more !! We are going to get more content from u 💃💃 from story updates to my corner post, from promoting ur book to the conversation under ur post, I am looking forward for everything 😍😍
Yes… hope to interact and post more…
Bas, I hope internet doesn’t play spoilsport like today. Sometimes, signals in my area are pathetic. Despite having airtel services.
Hope to talk more here about all that people want to know 💖🤗
Glad to know that your aare is out of containment zone and that you and your family are safe. I just literally screamed in excitement of the podcast idea….😍😍😍😍. Just thinking about it make me jumpy. I hope that the book gets listed in amazon soon because it deserves to be published after all the post postments that had happen. Well, on my side there are a steady rise of cases each day and witha that someone known from the friends circle are tested positive. Stay safe. Stay strong. Love you….❤❤❤
Oh God!! Please take care. It is difficult disease but it isn’t like we can’t fight it. We CAN.
Stay safe and boost the morale of the person affected in your circle.
I pray for your safety.
Also, thanks for voting up the podcast idea. I have two votes now – Aasma and you.
I will definitely give it a try. However, I am a total novice there. With no special equipment to record it. Just a basic phone. let’s see how it goes 😀
Thanks anyway 🤗🤗
Thank you di. The hope that in the end of the tunnel there is going to a light is what that keeps me going. Trying to be out there for them as much as possible from my side.
And about the podcast, I know that whatever be the device you have to record, it can’t beat the thrill of hearing your voice reading your own work proudly..❤❤
Aww… more hugs for you for that confidence on me 🤗🤗
And so proud of you that you are standing up for people around you. We need more people like you, Stay strong. God bless you💖💖
Thank you di. I am smiling like a fool here…❤❤❤. Hugs to you too. You are a strong women (if not a super women)
💖💖💖
Oooooh that sounds amazing you should defo do a podcast and ask some book bloggers, that will boost the promotional side of things and you’re right there’s nothing we can do, so there’s no point being upset, things are not going to plan and we get it but all we have to do is be strong because we will eventually come out of it, we just need to have patience!
In regards to MH I totally agree with you, this has been a very testing time for every single person, but if you have a good support system you can overcome anything you want.
Love you tooo
So true, Aasma. In fact, I’ve strongly believed that even if you have no support system, BE your own support system. And for others too.
That has worked for me. At all times,
I hope you are safe and taking care.
Stay blessed. My wishes are with you 🤗