When your first novel is published, you’re in store for a long line of firsts: First edits. First proof pages. First galleys. First Goodreads review, etc.

I was lucky to get two firsts yesterday: My galleys came in, and they look fantastic. (Also in: Not Even Past by Dave White, a gorgeous-looking Polis paperback that proves I’m in really solid hands here—it’s a testament to a high standard of quality.)

Then, I got my first review from a stranger! People I know have read it, and while I trust their comments, there’s still a little part of me that feels they’re being kind because they know me. And here’s the first person who I’ve never met, who I wasn’t even friends with on Facebook, who has already finished the book.

Reading the review last night, I was struck speechless. That someone would respond so positively to something I wrote is an incredible feeling.

This was a great introduction to Rob Hart. If you haven’t heard about him, it’s time for you to get acquainted with him. You can thank me later.

Read the whole review here.