Okay so, after much debate, I've decided to publish the Thorne book myself. You know, I've been tossing this idea around for a long time now. Held back only by the stigma that goes with being a self-published author. Well, my mind was officially made up when I came across J.A. Konrath's blog one day. Do Legacy Publishers Treat Authors Badly? is the title of the actual post that changed my view on this matter. It was so unbelievably enlightening. And, FYI, to those who might read this and say, "What else would you expect from someone who self-publishes?" J. A. Konrath has been published by some of the biggest houses, and because of his experience, he's taken his career into his own hands. And he's not the only one, btw, though I don't really want to sit here and spew off names like I'm going down a checklist.
Now, even though I don't have any first-hand experience in the industry, based on my research and findings, I truly couldn't agree more with Konrath's assessment. So, my mind is made up. Screw the stigma of self-publishing...which, by the way, was obesified (yes, I'm creating a new word here....live with it) by an antiquated and extremely elitist opinion that ALL self published authors are hacks. Yes, there was a time when anyone and everyone with a particular thought that they felt the entire world needed to read about, without the remotest consideration to things like quality, editing or correct spelling; hell, there still are some out there. But, things have changed. Authors have grown. Not to mention...technology has changed. Thank the stars for ebooks, huh?
Today, there are countless great authors who've decided to take matters into their own hands, simply because, when it comes to authors (the bread and butter of all pub houses), generally, the industry can be...oh, how do I put this...unfair with regards to authors. I don't want someone to come in and dictate what THEY believe is the best treatment for my years of blood, sweat and tears. I don't want THEM to tell me how to write MY book, when, after waiting close to 18 months in some cases, THEY'LL give it a whopping few months to take off or fail. I don't want ANYONE to tell me I can't do things MY way! No author wants that.
So, there it is. I've decided to put THORNE out there myself. My hubby and I will design the cover (as we did with the original cover that everyone loved), and come up with another amazing cover. And when it's done, Thorne will be released. I'll let everyone know. I really want to thank everyone who's supported me through the years here. And I want to thank Konrath for his insight.
Peace! Can't wait to get it out there.
Sis, I have been down both paths, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with self publishing. The whole traditional houses are better is a thing of the past. I am proud of you and I look forward to reading your masterpiece!
ReplyDeleteThank you, my sweet, snevil brother. And I look forward to hearing what you think:)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on this life-changing choice, Cindy! As always, I eagerly anticipate reading David's story IN FULL and telling all my family and friends about him. In the world of writing, we authors need to rally together in support of one another's work. Bon Voyage upon your adventure, my friend!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Garrett. I couldn't agree more about how we need to rally together. It's a tough business. I just hope everyone loves the book as much as I do. I put so much of myself into it. I mean everything. I once read that the best writing is found where you can actually walk away feeling like you know the author, because of how much of the author's soul is there. Well, people are going to get to know me pretty well, I think.....LOL.
ReplyDelete