Here are timelines on two of my books to give you an idea of how long it can take from the time you present ideas to publishing houses to the time your book is actually released.
Wounded by Words timetable: One-sheets and query letters, started marketing July, 2004. Was told we needed a professional involved.
Added family therapist as co-author and marketed proposal July, 2005.
New Hope Publishers offered contract December, 2005.
Book due to New Hope, August 1, 2006.
Original release date, August 2007.
Actual release date, February 2008.
Too Soon to Say Goodbye timetable:
One-sheet, July 2006
Proposal, May 2007
New Hope Publishers offered contract December, 2007.
Book due to New Hope, October 15, 2008.
Release date, July 2009.
This book was put on the fast track.