I am thinking about hiring a publicist to help in promoting my new book, but I don't want to spend a lot of money on someone who does not do the job that I need to have done. Does anyone have a suggestion on a publicist that has done a good (or, preferably, an outstanding) job in the Christian book market or one who has done a superior job in any market.

If you do not want to give out this kind of information in a public response, please e-mail me directly at val@valgreenwood.com.

I am inclined to say, don't bother unless your book is on a bookshelf. All the publicity in the world won't do any good if the consumer can't find your book readily.

However, if you do hire one, they usually charge by the hour. Request and verify references. Like an agent, a publicist should not hesitate to give out references upon request.

And good luck!