The Sound of Settling

Last fall I made a promise to myself to spend 2026 focused on launching my debut, How We See the Gray. I’ve spent the last decade doing a lot of book coverage to elevate the work of other writers and now, I decided, was the time to give that to my own work. I would write a bunch of those pre-pub essays—behind the scenes glimpses at my process and path to publication—and themed book lists, a playlist of the songs that inspired the novel, and diligently pitch media outlets. A year off from book reviews and author interviews. No freelance work. I’d read whatever I want. For an entire year!

We’re three months into the year and I’ve already broken that promise to myself several times. I’ve written a total of one essay that I think is likely too vulnerable to publish, owe two people book lists that I am putting off, have yet to put together the playlist, and have mostly been reading books that other people have asked me to for one reason or another.

But I don’t see it as settling or going against my promise to myself. More like I’ve realized the need to pivot. I quickly learned there is a community aspect to publishing. Other debut authors have reached out asking me to read their books— possible conversations about one another’s work to pitch! What about conversation partners for bookstore events? I’m reading a lot more forthcoming books than I planned to, but it’s been lovely and a good reminder that I’m not alone.

My approach to book promotion and events is to say yes to every opportunity offered, and to use my book as an excuse to travel to see people I love. So far I have events scheduled in Rockford, Chicago, Brooklyn, and Denver. I’m working on trying to get things lined up in Madison, Milwaukee, Appleton, Moline, Champaign-Urbana, Evanston, Oakland, and D.C. But really, I’ll go anywhere that’ll have me, so if you know of a reading series or bookstore that’d be interested, or a book club, even if that’s just you and your dog, hit me up! I’ll try to drop a post with more details as I get plans finalized.

In the meantime, I’ll be over here silently freaking out, certain I’m not doing enough to spread the word about my book. Worried it won’t reach its readers if I don’t do more. But also hitting my limit in terms of what I can do for it. At some point, I just need to let it go and hope it’s enough.

Which brings us to my shameless ask for help! If you’re willing to support me and my book, here are a few (free) things you can do*:

1. Ask your local library to order it. Most library websites have a button you can click to request books. You’ll fill out a quick form and I’ll be forever grateful.

2. If you’re on Goodreads, you can add it there. (And someday, if you don’t hate it, you could post a review.)

3. If you’re on Storygraph, you can add it there too. (And also review there too someday, if you’re so inclined.)

4. Am*z*n is the WORST, but I’m told it controls what books pop up on basic internet searches (because of course it does) and apparently having at least 20 reviews there matters in terms of people being able to find the novel. If you’re willing to write a quick review, I hear that can actually increase the book’s online visibility!

5. I have lots of postcards but have run out of addresses to send them to. If you’d be willing to send any to friends, I’d happily send some your way! Just hit reply to drop into my inbox or DM me. (And if you want me to send one to you or someone you love, you can sign up here.)

   *If you’re an author and want me to do any of these things for you, just let me know! Community, baby; community.

Reading Recommendations

Recently read:

One of the books I agreed to cover this year is Jules Wernersbach’s debut novel, Work to Do, which was a great book to break a promise for. This one checked some of my favorite boxes, so if you’re looking for a smart, queer, propulsive multiple POV social novel, be sure to add this one to your TBR.

After putting together an anthology myself, I have newfound respect for them, and On an Inland Sea is a gorgeous and thoughtfully curated anthology, edited by the talented Michael Welch. I’m now itching to visit Lake Michigan.

I just finished reading Radhika Singh’s searing debut novel, Earthly Playing Field, which is set in a sci-fi present and deals with the role of faith in resistance. (We’re running an interview with her over at CHIRB on Monday, which I’m really excited about.) Another novel to put on your radar— it’s beautiful, timely, and urgent.

Currently reading: Adam Axler’s fantastic debut hybrid medical memoir American Triage. Wow, this slim book packs a punch. It deals with the decline of Western medicine with humor and a healthy dose of skepticism— the kind of jadedness that comes from working in a broken system. Really great stuff.

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I’m currently working on my next mix for the “mixtape club” I’m in and was reminded of this Death Cab for Cutie song. It doesn’t fit my mix’s theme, or maybe this post for that matter, but I’m shoehorning it in.

And if anyone out there is interested in participating in such a club where people make themed mixes to share, let me know!

Accepting song suggestions, streaming recommendations, and any other delightful distractions to get through the next 7 weeks! Sending you so much love and strength. <3