Book Launch Q&A: Dr. Richard, Co-Author TETRASTATUM #booklaunch @drrichard_istar @pumpupyourbook

Dr. Richard has been involved in the field of Photonics for over 30 years. He received his BA in physics (honors) from the University of California Fullerton. He was in a full scholarship PhD program in physics at the University of California Irvine and a PhD program in philosophy at Claremont Graduate School. Dr. Richard completed his two dissertations (involving human interpretations of laser and electro-optical images) while under top secret clearance. He also has an advanced placement teaching credential, an advanced certification (from the University of Wisconsin) in laser and optical design; and other advanced certifications in fiber optics, computer programming, technology business development, financial products, dance, anatomy and physiology.

website & social links

WEBSITE → https://www.tetrastatum.com

TWITTER → https://twitter.com/DrRichard_ISTAR

FACEBOOK → https://www.facebook.com/istarsfx

 

 

In their debut novel TETRASTATUM, authors Dr. Richard and Tim Smith combine heady concepts about the universe with a thrilling science fiction story about the search for a new kind of time travel.

The result is a stunning mixture of dense cosmology and old-fashioned storytelling that will appeal to a wide readership, from science professionals to lay fans of science fiction.

“Dr. Richard” and “Tim Smith” are the pseudonyms of Dr. Richard Connor and Marcus Rodriguez, respectively.

“TETRASTATUM (‘the fourth state’) is the culmination of my 30 years working in the field of photonics,” Dr. Richard says. “I am an avid reader of sci-fi, and I wanted to create a new type of work that is both educational and entertaining in the genre. TETRASTATUM gives the reader a unique understanding of the existing laws of physics and extends them to provoke further thought from novice readers as well as advanced experts in the field.”

Kirkus Reviews notes that “authors Dr. Richard and Smith … tell their cerebral story with a heady mix of dense theory and absurdist humor.”

The Independent Review of Books declares:  “TETRASTATUM is like nothing you have ever read before. This is an impressive work of science fiction …”

The San Francisco Book Review adds that, “These recurring themes of characterization and distortion feed into the concern that is being voiced over the current state of our political climate…The layering of these themes is ultimately what gives TETRASTATUM a relevance that will keep readers turning pages and asking questions.”

“The book ultimately explains how human perceptions alter the future and puts forth a model based on quantum physics to explain ‘reality’,” Dr. Richard continues.  He calls science fiction “the perfect genre to explore socio-political ideas within the context of futuristic technologies and scientific theories.”

Dr. Richard and Smith are currently working with Norith Soth on adapting TETRASTATUM into a screenplay. Mr. Soth has penned work for Justin Lin (“Fast and Furious”), Stephen Chin (“War Dogs”), and Norman Reedus (“The Walking Dead”).

order your copy below

Amazon → https://tinyurl.com/y6tlmpbj

 

After your book was released, what was the first thing you did when getting ready for your book launch?

The first thing we did was to prepare a Press Release concurrent with the book launch. 

After that, what was your next step?

We optimized our key words for our Amazon listing and our web site, through a process of trial and error.

Did you do anything different to spice up your website in lieu of your upcoming book release?

We created a short video trailer and posted it on YouTube and promoted it with Sprizzy.

Did you ever consider using a PR agency to help you promote your book or did you prefer the DIY route?

We chose to use a professional PR agency specializing in book publicity, The Barrett Company. Their help has been invaluable in getting the book out to the public.

Were finding reviews a top priority for you and, if yes, how did you approach that?

We used Net Galley to get ARCs out to potential reviewers prior to launch as well as used traditional editorial review services (Book Viral, Self-Publishing Review and San Francisco Book Review).

What are your views on social media for marketing your book?

Social media is definitely an effective way to reach potential readers.  However, it requires an investment of time to build up a following.

What social media has worked best for you?                       

Book clubs such as Goodreads, Online Book Club and Bookbub.

Did you write a press release and do you think it worked for you?

Yes, it is a good way to promote general awareness and attract interest from journalists, radio and other media outlets who are in a position to help shine the spotlight on your book.

Did you revamp your author’s page at Amazon in any way to prepare for the launch (https://authorcentral.amazon.com/)?

Yes, tightened up the book description organizing it into short paragraphs and crystalized the lead line.

Did you have other books you offered for free in order to help sell your present book?

No.

Did you set up booksignings and, if so, how did that work for you?

No, however I always keep several copies with me for any interested acquaintances and provide a signed copy to people who express a genuine interest in the subject matter.

Did you create a book trailer?

Yes, https://youtu.be/3KXwMsAwClM

Did you time your book launch around a certain holiday?

No.

What was the best money you ever spent on your book launch?

Book Viral.  Just a great group.  Very smart people! Fabulous editorial writers that can grasp extremely complex concepts and condense the essence of a novel into a paragraph.  Neither I nor my co-author could have written as succinct and intelligent an editorial review as Book Viral.

Any tips for those authors wanting to set up a successful book launch?

Have your ducks in a row. Start planning 4-5 months ahead of your launch date.