Behind the Book with June Gillam
• This article contains June’s affiliate links •
I’m delighted today to take you behind the scenes with my client, author June Gillam. Her latest novel, Fallen Kings: Unholy Secrets came out recently as an audio book, and I had the chance to catch up with June about her publishing journey. We also talked about how she’s using her website to connect with readers and promote her work.
About June
June Gillam began writing crime novels after developing an obsession to understand what makes ordinary people mad enough to kill. Each of her novels explores the shadow side of being human, what happens when humans feel crushed by life, a condition that continues to intrigue her.
She is also a writing instructor and workshop leader, driven to discover the who, what, why, where and how of a story.
About the book
Fallen Kings: Unholy Secrets
What begins as a vacation in Italy for Professor Hillary Broome’s family turns into a nightmare when her gay teenage daughter Claire disappears. Hillary uncovers an ominous plot led by Father Tommaso, who aims to reverse women's rights progress. Battling personal demons and confronting her past, Hillary races against time to save Claire.
The story intertwines themes of family, redemption, and societal progress, set against a backdrop of religious conspiracy.
•
June says: “The producer, Jason Hammar, does a great job with the Italian accents, I'm happy to note. It’s selling well on Audible, and is available on Amazon.
I offer codes for listeners who’d like a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Just contact me and ask!”
Let’s dive in to our mini interview!
“One key is to be willing to learn something new every day—and put it in practice—that’s my advice. And gather other writers around you for company on the trail.”
What inspired you to write this book?
My latest novel, Fallen Kings: Unholy Secrets, was released this spring as an audiobook.
From my college German, I knew that Hitler believed women's lives should revolve around the three 'Ks': Kinder, Küche, Kirche (Children, Kitchen, Church). The mounting energy in today’s news pushing to control women made me ask "What if?" What if some madmen went over the top trying to force women’s return to traditional ways? Back into old molds from the past. That’s how the Italian Cardinal and Father Tommaso sprang up and into the pages of Fallen Kings: Unholy Secrets. Then they turned Hillary's Italian vacation into a nightmare.
Which types of book marketing are working best for you? What are you enjoying?
My Gorilla Girl Ink newsletter is working well. In less than a year I grew from 98 Mailerlite subscribers to almost 1,500, and migrated my email list to Squarespace. I love how easy it is to create and send out my newsletter in Squarespace every month with their tools all in one place.
Can you offer any advice to other authors about building an online presence?
Honestly, it’s a lot of work!
The usual advice is to pick just one or two social media platforms, but I can’t resist trying to be present in half a dozen of them.
One key is to be willing to learn something new every day—and put it in practice—that’s my advice. Stay strong and healthy, too!
And gather other writers around you for company on the trail.
What has surprised you in your journey to publish your book and reach readers?
It’s surprising how long it takes me to write my books. I wish I were faster but as my hubby says, “Good things take time.” At least for some of us.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects, events, or goals?
I’m writing the first draft of Tahoe Shadows, book one in my new thriller trilogy, Lessons in Fear, set in San Francisco. I’ll be at the 2025 California State Fair Authors Booth July 11, 20 and 23 and would love to see readers and writers come on out and have a good time with us.
How can readers find out more about you and connect?
Visit my website. Sign up for my newsletter.
Join San Joaquin Valley Writers, or meet me at the California State Fair!
Author website spotlight
I had the pleasure of working with June on her author website, and it's been wonderful seeing her number of published titles grow.
June’s website now features her twelve books, including a free first-in-series for readers who subscribe to her newsletter. She also has generous resources for other writers, as well as her bio, contact information, and social media links.
•
Are you ready to sell more books?
If you want an author website that engages your readers and sets you up for business results, let’s design, build, and launch your online home. Learn more, and then schedule a complimentary chat with me.
Popular resources for a powerful author website
Behind the Book interviews: Laura Baggaley and Jordan Gruber
Save 10% off your first subscription of a Squarespace website by using the code PAULINE10
