Welcome to the News and Updates Page
Welcome to the Million Dollar Smile Updates page! Here, I will share behind-the-scenes progress on my journey to publishing the book, including cover design, editing updates, and interesting history and facts that inspired the story.
Goodbye March!
March 31, 2025
For anyone that has spent some time in Colorado, you know what a crazy weather-month March is. It can be snowing one day, and 70 degrees the next day. I’m always glad when we make it through March one more time.
With that being said, I have made a lot of progress in March. Things are moving quickly behind the scenes. I’ve gotta say: When I started this process of writing and self-publishing a book, I had no idea how much work was involved! But here we are: Beta readers are currently reviewing the manuscript, and revisions are underway. The novel is scheduled to be copyedited in April, are we’re also in the final stages of choosing a cover designer.
The publishing date is still set for October 7, 2025, and we’re super excited to bring this story to life.
Thank you for following along!
- Paul
Big News
March 21, 2025
The publication date is officially set: October 7, 2025!
There’s still a lot to do, but I’ve also made some solid progress. I’ve finished assigning ISBNs for both the paperback and eBook editions, which feels like a big milestone.
Next up: The copy editor begins work on the manuscript starting April 8. I’m still waiting on feedback from a few key beta readers—especially my aviation and military experts—and I’m hoping their insights come in soon so I can make any necessary revisions before editing begins.
I’m also in the process of searching for the right cover designer. More updates to come.
- Paul
The Journey Begins
March 19, 2025
I never thought I’d write a novel, but I had a story to tell. When I first started, I had no idea how the process of writing, editing, and publishing worked. I did some research, then took the leap and began writing. It wasn’t easy. My first few chapters needed major reworking, but I stuck with it, and over time, the process became a little easier.
I began writing my manuscript in early November 2024, often spending three to four hours writing late into the night after my family had gone to bed. This was after a full day of working my job in technology and taking care of family responsibilities. It wasn’t always sustainable, but I kept pushing forward. By the end of February 2025, I had a completed first draft.
After some self-editing, I sent the manuscript to five beta readers. As of today, I’ve received feedback from one, and I’m anxiously awaiting the rest. My copy editor is scheduled to begin work on April 8, so I want to incorporate as much feedback as possible before then.
There’s still a long road ahead. The self-publishing process comes with an ever-growing to-do list, and at times, it feels overwhelming. But I’m taking it one step at a time.
I’ll keep posting updates here as I move forward. Stay tuned!
- Paul
