[John (J.D.) Smith]

I will take a break from my usual lurking to note that my full-length collection The Killing Tree, consisting entirely of metrical verse, has been accepted for publication by Finishing Line Press and will be released on July 15.

Sphereans Catherine Chandler and Susan McLean generously provided blurbs and editorial advice, as did the incomparable Timothy Steele.

As many of you know, per Finishing Line practice a certain number of advance orders is needed for the press run to take place, with larger numbers leading to larger press runs. With this in mind, and the realization that not everyone enjoys the risk of buying a pig in a poke, I (not the publisher) will refund your money with proof of purchase if you buy the collection and find it not to your liking.

Blurbs, cover art and ordering information are available at the link below.

Thanks for taking the time to read.

https://finishinglinepress.com/produ...oducts_id=2645

[Ed Shacklee]

Well, you had one order the moment I heard of this. Congratulations!

Best,

Ed

[John (J.D.) Smith]

Thanks, Ed. I hope the book rewards your time and expense.

[Rick Mullin]

I'm down for a copy. Looking forward to it!

[John (J.D.) Smith]

Thanks, Rick. I hope it is worth your while.

[John (J.D.) Smith]

The latest sales report is in. I have 44 pre-orders for The Killing Tree and need a total of 75 by May 20 to have a minimum press run. I need a total of 105 preo-orders by that date to get a press run of 500, the minimum to be considered for most post-publication awards. This is probably a good time to remind people that I am offering a refund with proof of purchase to anyone who buys the book and does not like it. I don't expect many to take up the offer, but I can make good on it. Advance praise and ordering information at the link. Please share with anyone who may be interested. http://tinyurl.com/htsj7vq

[Julie Steiner]

You're now up to 45. Good luck!

[John (J.D.) Smith]

Thank you very much. I hope the book will reward your effort.

[Sharon Fish Mooney]

Make it 46 -- terrific reviews of it. I am looking forward to all those forms

[John (J.D.) Smith]

Thank you very for taking the time and trouble. I hope the book rewards them.