The Quick & Painless Newsletter

If you are on the email mailing list, you probably already received this. But in case you missed it...the newsletter is brief recap of what has been going on with Painless that I hope to send out a couple times a year. In this first edition, you'll find updates on ebook status, Operation Ebook Drop, an ongoing discount, among other interesting information. If you'd like to be included on the mailing list, just send your email address to derekbkclb@yahoo.com with a quick note that you want to be included.

1. Thank You!!!

The initial response to the book has been tremendous. Wasn't really sure what to expect when I got myself into this, but I think it's safe to say whatever the expectations were, they were surpassed. Thanks to all those who took a chance on Painless.

2. Painless is now an E-book!
Did you get a Kindle or Nook for Xmas? Painless has partnered with the E-book site Smashwords to publish as an E-book, and now can be purchased on all major E-book formats, whether that be Amazon Kindle (mobi), B&N Nook (epub), Sony ereader (LRF), and the most popular apps for iPhone (Stanza), to name a few. Currently can do one-stop-shopping by clicking on the Smashwords link above, which will take you directly to the Painless page, where you can purchase your E-book in whichever format you require. But within weeks should be able to purchase at specific sites, if desire (i.e. purchase Kindle download @ Amazon site). I will update that on the blog. E-books are new territory for me, and the industry in general, so interested to hear back from those E-bookers out there on how Painless stacks up as far as look, accessibility, price, etc. And as E-books continue to evolve, so will we.

3. Operation E-book Drop

Very proud to say that Painless has enrolled in Operation EBook Drop. It was created by a soldier and writer named Ed Patterson, and what it does is provide free E-books to soldiers abroad. From what I've learned, E-books have become very popular with military members, since they don't take up much space and are good for traveling. I think it's a great idea, and I'm excited that Painless is part of it!

4. Spreadin' the News
Painless has been out for nearly 4-months now, and has really developed a great word of mouth. The hope was that the book would inspire readers to tell a friend, and so far that has been the case - thanks to the efforts of many of you. So what are some things that can be done to continue spreading the word? Here are a few:

• Join the Facebook fan site Derek Ciccone Book Club and suggest to your friends (just sign in to your FBook page, click on Book Club, then either join, if you haven't already, and then click "suggest to friends" button and pick the friends you want to send an invitation to) Facebook is great advertising for the book.



• Reviews - I have received a ton of great feedback about Painless, whether by email or in person. That said, Painless is in need of reader reviews on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It's a simple process, and here are some examples of reviews that have been posted.



• Forward this newsletter to friends of yours who might be interested in a good book. And anyone you know who wants to get on the mailing list, just have them drop me an email at this address.

5. Xmas Sale a hit! 20% off the hardcover was offered during the holiday season, hoping to accomodate those who wanted to give a hardcover version of Painless as a gift. I was thrilled to see so many take advantage of this. So I'm going to make the discount permanent going forward. All you have to do is use this code during purchase: 20WhoL20

Note: Can only be used if purchase it through my print publisher - which can be accessed through the link or via my Web site. I'm not allowed to alter the prices @ Amazon or any online sellers. If anyone has questions, or is interested in getting them signed, contact me through email, and we'll work something out.

6. Border(s) War: Unfortunately, Painless currently isn't being carried by Borders or Borders.com. This is a Borders corporate decision, and affects many new authors across the board. Too bad, but Painless is doing great in the two top online sellers - Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and is available at all other major online retailers.

7. Book Clubs: Had no idea that so many people were involved in a book club of some sort. I want to accommodate any book club that might be interested in reading Painless. I have no official programs directed toward book clubs, but if you're interested, contact me and I'll work with your group on things like group cost discount and my availability to meet with group to answer questions on the book.

Note: Carolyn Mueller writes a great weekly series for the Danbury News Times newspaper called Page Turners. It highlights local book clubs. If your club is interested in becoming "famous" and at least 2 members live in Greater Danbury area - Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, etc,, you get the idea, she'd be interested in hearing from you : CMueller@newstimes.com

8. Where is Painless available?
Full print list @ Google Books
One of the most frequently asked questions I've gotten the last few months has been - I'm going to buy Painless, do you care where I buy it from? The simple and copout answer is, "It doesn't matter to me." While there are differences, the key is that the book is getting out there, and hopefully inspiring someone to tell a friend. Here is a brief list of the most popular destinations to get the book so far:

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Dog Ear Publishing
Books-A-Million
IndieBound

Picture source: originalworks.com

And the Judges Say...

Okay, not those judges

Thought it would be a good time to share feedback for Painless from the most important reviewers - THE READERS!

Here's a small sampling:

I can't put it down. Lovin' it!...Laurie (Buffalo Grove, Illinois)

I stayed up until 2 a.m. to finish it. I was on an emotional roller coaster...Rosalie (Charleston, SC)

I was sorry to have it end. I read tons of books and have read most of the mystery authors in the current market. Derek can definitely hold his own with these well known writers in story development, character development, and writing style...Jude (Phoenix, AZ)

I started to read it and couldn't put it down. You are a great storyteller, the characters are really well developed - I loved or hated all of them...Charles (Parts Unknown, Connecticut)

I gave Painless to my dad to read, he is 85 years old and thought it was great. He was amazed at all the intricacies of the characters. He said it was a real page-turner...Barbara (Tampa, Florida)

One of the things that stands out from the early returns, is how Painless seems to cross all lines of gender, age, and geography, when it comes to those who are enjoying it. I think that is a great sign. It is also being embraced for the way it is able to combine genres - both a fast-paced thriller combined with a heartwarming story of redemption.

Thanks to everyone who has sent me feedback so far. While I'm thrilled that it's been overwhelmingly positive, critical suggestions are equally valuable to me. For all those who've read it, love to hear what you think: derekbkclb@yahoo.com.

Also looking for readers willing to write a brief review on Amazon, - here's an example from a reader.

Picture Source: American Idol/FOX