Thanks, Sarah. I still feel very much like a newbie in the self pub space, but I'll be happy to share what I've learned once I feel a bit more qualified to speak on things 😅
I love that part about reading being a gift. I can't remember ever thinking about it like that, and it's so true. Going forward with grattitude as I read today <3
It really is all so complicated. I’m on my second self-pub book with the release of The Dragon Spy earlier this month, and it’s just weird to see how different it ISN’T really for the reader. As long as the book looks professionally produced, most don’t even question if it was traditionally published or self-pubbed. It took me a while to realize I was practically apologizing for my first indie novel being self-pubbed, and I’m finally getting to where I’m not doing that.
I’m so excited for your book finally being out there! I love how different it is from your previous books (but with your distinctive style baked into it).
I've noticed this too! I've done two events since it came out and at both, people just picked up my books, read the jacket copy, and bought what appealed to them best. No comment or question about who published it. And I think you're right; if you package it professionally, it really doesn't matter. People just want to read a great book that fits their genre preferences!
" love how different it is from your previous books (but with your distinctive style baked into it)." <-- Thank you so much. I tend to consistently jump genres but like to think there's a little cross over between everything, so this feels like high praise.
Your pacing is among the best among the writers I consistently read. Can’t tell you how many times while reading one of your books I’ll have a moment like, “I feel like this needs… oh! And there it is!” You have such solid instincts for when and where to shift the plot.
I'm inspired that you chose to go the self-pub route for this book. I know everyone's journeys are unique, yet I can't help but feel sad when I hear about someone who has manuscripts gathering dust in drawers, and for years, waiting for an agent or publisher to choose them. I'm glad you're not letting that keep you from getting your wonderful book into the world.
Thanks, Melissa! I definitely have *some* manuscripts sitting in drawers, but that's often because I don't feel like the time is right for the project or I don't believe in the project enough to actually publish it. But for this one, I felt like it was the right idea, at the right time, with a marketable hook, AND I'm proud of the writing. So it was time to try! I'm learning a lot :)
That all makes sense! I hope the self-pub learning process is enjoyable, and I can't wait to grab a copy of In the Dead of the Night. I just read the first page, and it has me hooked! :)
This so beautifully accurate. And it really puts perspective on things. I always enjoy your insights to this author life, and I'll be holding this one close as I lead up to my debut.
Such a good newsletter, Erin. <3
Thanks, friend.
436 rejections by Kate DiCamillo?! Wow! Thanks for sharing, Erin!
That number surprised me too! So glad she kept trying. The world is a better place because of her stories.
I'll be so curious to continue learning from you as you're experiencing this additional publishing path. Keep it going and best of luck!!
Thanks, Sarah. I still feel very much like a newbie in the self pub space, but I'll be happy to share what I've learned once I feel a bit more qualified to speak on things 😅
I'm glad you believed in your book and went the way of self-publishing. I know it can be stressful but I also know your writing is exquisite.
Thank you so much, Hope! 🖤
I love that part about reading being a gift. I can't remember ever thinking about it like that, and it's so true. Going forward with grattitude as I read today <3
Isn't it the best framing?! It really made me pause and rethink things.
It really is all so complicated. I’m on my second self-pub book with the release of The Dragon Spy earlier this month, and it’s just weird to see how different it ISN’T really for the reader. As long as the book looks professionally produced, most don’t even question if it was traditionally published or self-pubbed. It took me a while to realize I was practically apologizing for my first indie novel being self-pubbed, and I’m finally getting to where I’m not doing that.
I’m so excited for your book finally being out there! I love how different it is from your previous books (but with your distinctive style baked into it).
I've noticed this too! I've done two events since it came out and at both, people just picked up my books, read the jacket copy, and bought what appealed to them best. No comment or question about who published it. And I think you're right; if you package it professionally, it really doesn't matter. People just want to read a great book that fits their genre preferences!
" love how different it is from your previous books (but with your distinctive style baked into it)." <-- Thank you so much. I tend to consistently jump genres but like to think there's a little cross over between everything, so this feels like high praise.
Your pacing is among the best among the writers I consistently read. Can’t tell you how many times while reading one of your books I’ll have a moment like, “I feel like this needs… oh! And there it is!” You have such solid instincts for when and where to shift the plot.
🥰🥰🥰 Thank you, Bill!
Thanks for sharing this, Erin. <3
I'm inspired that you chose to go the self-pub route for this book. I know everyone's journeys are unique, yet I can't help but feel sad when I hear about someone who has manuscripts gathering dust in drawers, and for years, waiting for an agent or publisher to choose them. I'm glad you're not letting that keep you from getting your wonderful book into the world.
Thanks, Melissa! I definitely have *some* manuscripts sitting in drawers, but that's often because I don't feel like the time is right for the project or I don't believe in the project enough to actually publish it. But for this one, I felt like it was the right idea, at the right time, with a marketable hook, AND I'm proud of the writing. So it was time to try! I'm learning a lot :)
That all makes sense! I hope the self-pub learning process is enjoyable, and I can't wait to grab a copy of In the Dead of the Night. I just read the first page, and it has me hooked! :)
You’re so so right. So complicated. Thanks for writing - me reading your writing is a gift 🎁
Oh gosh, this is too kind, Amy. Thank you! 💗
This so beautifully accurate. And it really puts perspective on things. I always enjoy your insights to this author life, and I'll be holding this one close as I lead up to my debut.
Thanks Alysha. I hope it serves you well. The emotional rollercoaster is tough with any release, but *especially* debut year. You've got this. 💪🏻
Excellent post! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for reading! 🥰