My novel was released on 13 December 2006 (in the US) and I had to
restrain myself from handing out my bookmarks right away because I
thought I would be wasting my effort and money, because my book wouldn't
be available in Australia yet.

Then last week, I received two copies from my publisher's branch office
in Australia.  I was thrilled to have my hardcover books in my hand.  I
started handing out my bookmarks.  The lady at the postoffice counter (a
casual worker) took a look at my bookmark and said, "I'll buy a copy."
Then she showed me the novel she was reading -- a bodice-ripper.  I
explained my book is not yet available and asked how long she would be
working at that postoffice.  She said till the end of January.

I emailed my publisher and was told my author's copies had been mailed
on 19 December but they didn't think my books would arrive till early or
mid Feb -- they must have sent it via sea-mail!  So I contacted the FS
branch office here and ordered 20 copies.  I was told my book is out of
stock -- less than a week after they arrived?  Sheesh!  I was also told
the new order would be airfreighted in, but it would take about 3 weeks
for them to arrive.

Afraid to lose my "customer"  I decided to "sacrifice" one of my two
books in hand!  I was so thrilled to make my first sale yesterday that I
gave the lady a 20 percent discount (based on the prices listed in our
local bookstores)!

Now, if only it is as easy to sell the rest of my books!  <G>

Thanks for listening.