This Stuff Is, Like, HARD

sxc.hu/pygment2

M: So, I’m considering self-publishing my Ash story

J: I know it’s been on your mind for a while. It’s not a bad idea. Self-pubbing doesn’t have the same stigma anymore

it’s still tough

and crap. After doing some research to possibly self-pub the oracles, I have a lot of respect for people like Elizabeth Hunter who do it all on their own

M: we’re jumping in together again

J: it’s just what we do

There are so many options, too

what used to be considered vanity publishers are now “assistants” to the process

M: and honestly, the whole stigma thing doesn’t factor into my decision. It’s more about what’s right for me – where I’m at – and the story.

J: still, it’s easier knowing you’ll get a fair shot

that people won’t immediately set it aside

M: I think it’s a good story. I just don’t know that it fits into the “formula” that a lot of publishers look for

J: it does in a way, though

you’re thinking the romance formula

which it does not fit

but the romantic thriller…yes

M: and I’m not willing to compromise. And I think readers are not only willing to accept non-formula, they like it. I know I do

plus, while a publisher might be willing to look at it despite it being outside the norm, I’m not willing to give up a lot of the rights some publishers want

J: it really is a give and take. They offer so many things

but they also take

M: very true

each manuscript and situation is different

J: My reasons for self-pubbing (or considering it) are more a timing issue, since Morning Star will be ready very soon, too

though, by the time I figure out what the hell I’m doing…

M: exactly. So many choices and decisions

and while that’s a good thing, it’s also confusing

especially when you’re just in the beginning stages of learning

J: There are some options for those who want the freedom but not the crazy work

confusing work

M: yes, so many places offering packages to self-publish, and I’ve heard all kinds of stories, good and terrible

some do all the formatting and distributing

offer cover art and editing services

some take a flat fee, some percentages

some reputable, some not

holy crap

or do you just take it all on yourself and hope you learn as you go, don’t screw up too bad?

J: that’s what I’m looking at

but whoa

there really is a lot

M: yeah, whoa

J: I mean, formatting, distribution, royalties, legal issues

maybe it’s worth finding a company that knows what’s going on

but then you still lose something

that tiny little piece that’s just not your own anymore

M: or then, what is really the benefit of not having it traditionally published? Where does that line get drawn?

When is one a better decision than the other?

ugh. It’s so confusing

and stressful

I just want to get the story out to as many people who might be interested as I can

and be fair to me, readers, service providers…

J: well, as a self-published author, you get to make so many more decisions

how much you charge, when to offer it for free

M: I really like that part

having more flexibility in making it available to the readers

and what I find really cool is you can make changes to the published version at any time

like if you find a whoops, even after the eleventy billion times you’ve gone over and edited

J: ugh. I hate that feeling

M: the control you maintain is a pretty big benefit for all the research and uncertainty

and money invested

J: it is

it’s very inviting

M: that’s another big thing. With a publisher, you don’t have to invest up front for editing and cover art, formatting and distribution. But you give up control over other things

so many pros and cons to either side. It’s a hard decision.

J: you know what, though? I’ve paid editors to help me get my shit together before submitting to MSP

it’s an investment you make when you want your book to be as good as possible

I’m willing to go a step further to get the rest of it right

M: you take your chances with either, sure

a traditional publisher is not a guarantee of a good editor or cover artist, just like hiring one freelance isn’t.

but I think you have a better chance with freelance, because you have choices. You usually don’t with publishers

J: yes. I’m often gobsmacked at the lack of editing or the terrible cover design on books from big publishers

M: so, it comes down to what’s best for you and the story.

I bet we have lots of people out there with experiences, thoughts, and opinions

we want to hear them!

lay it on us