In my school days, I was unimpressed by science. Now that I’m older and know a mere fraction of what I did as a teenager, I’ve changed my opinion. I’ve dusted off my white lab coat and decided to conduct a pseudo-scientific experiment in publishing. My analysis of results will be totally subjective, a fact I’m willing to guarantee.
After six books with a traditional publisher, I’ve decided to self-publish the next one. Am I the first to do this? Of course not. But I’ve always been one of those kids that learns by doing. Don’t tell me the ice is too thin, the cliff too high, the dive too deep, the shark too toothsome; let me discover those things for myself! It’s an impactful approach—I have the stitches and mended bones to prove it.
So, why the switch, Diana? There are two reasons:
One is timing. In my totally unqualified opinion, it takes a loooong time for books to cycle through the traditional process. I’m in no way attempting to minimize or disparage the role traditional publishers play. I understand that producing a quality book is careful, painstaking work. Editors and publishers know their business and bring immeasurable value to the process and product. As a new writer, I depended heavily on their expertise and learned tons about the business. The editorial feedback made me a better writer. That’s a fact…in fact.
That said, traditional publishers have multiple clients—it’s not all about me! Can you believe it? Since my name isn’t George R.R. Martin, I’m still a publisher’s long shot. Yep, I’ll admit it. I have to respect priorities and get in the queue with everyone else. My publisher is currently working on my Dragon Soul Trilogy—a sequel to Myths of the Mirror—and honestly, I’m too impatient to slide a new book to the bottom of the pile for a 2016 release.
The second reason boils down to a desire to experiment with marketing. Even with traditional publishers, particularly small presses, marketing falls heavily on the author’s shoulders. This seems to be the norm these days, and whining about it hasn’t improved my sales one red penny. I’d like to experiment with discounts, pointed giveaways, and other pricing strategies that I currently have zero control over. My hope is that more aggressive sales of The Bone Wall (due out this month) will result in readers picking up my other books, which is good for me AND my publisher.
I suspect that I’ll ultimately end up doing a hybrid of traditional publishing and self-publishing. And my experiment is just starting. It may be wildly successful, a total bust, or make no difference at all. I’ll be sure to give everyone an update on results. I might even cobble together a chart!
The Bone Wall will be available this month, initially via Kindle…
Blue light ripples and crackles as the shield walls fracture. The remnants of a doomed civilization stand vigil outside, intent on plunder and slaves, desirous of untainted blood to strengthen their broken lives. With the poisons, came deformities and powers, enhanced senses and the ability to manipulate waves of energy—lightbenders and fire-wielders.
For those who thrived for generations within the walls, the broken world looms, strange and deadly, slowly dying. While the righteous pray for salvation, Rimma prepares for battle, fueled by rage and blinded by vengeance. Her twin, Angel, bound to her by unbreakable magic, seeks light in the darkness, hope in the future, and love in a broken world.
Myths of the Mirror 
…the reality is that HYBRID is the way to be for the present, Diana… way… cheers, m’Lady 🙂
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Thanks Seumas. I’m one of those people who never figured out the television remote control, so this will be interesting. Always more to learn.
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It sounds like a real winner,Diana. All the best. 🙂 — Suzanne
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Thanks Suzanne. This book is dark (at least for me it is). Some people will like it and others won’t, but I hope overall you’re right!
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I’m so excited for you! Congrats and best of luck. I’m looking forward to the Bone Wall’s release 🙂
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Thanks Nicholas. It’s pretty exciting to be setting off on this adventure under my own power. Exploration seems to be a personal theme for this year. Thanks for all your support..
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A pleasure. And a well-deserved support, at that 🙂
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Thank you so much for your insights, Diana! Much appreciated 🙂 Will keep your advice in mind.
love,
Lopa.
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Take all my advice with a grain of salt, as I’m still winging it for the most part… I learned a lot from the traditional process and recommend it to anyone who can go that route. I’m a better writer as a result. A contract with one of the major houses would be a dream come true, of course, but small presses are nothing to shy away from. They’re often personally accessible and willing to give writers more hands-on time (like answering all my dumb questions). Just do your homework!! Best of luck to you!
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This is exhilarating, Diana! Six books with traditional publishers is not a meager achievement! I have just completed a book length memoir and a poetry collection and am trying to find a publisher who would be interested in my projects. I will look forward to your insights into this matter…a number of friends of mine who have published traditionally have warned me against self-publishing, especially when I am a newbie…so I am actually torn between their opinions and my own ignorance regarding the publishing process. Your reply will be much appreciated!
Lopa.
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Good luck with your experiment. It will be interesting to see if you enjoy having more control over the process.
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Thanks. I think I’ll enjoy the control. Whether it makes a difference is the big question. I’m going into it with an open mind and few expectations other than to have fun with it. By the way, I enjoy your blog, but I can’t find your “like” button…probably me, since I’m a ditz at this computer stuff. Just wanted to let you know:)
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Diana, it’s your best yet. I want a copy and I want it now!
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You got it. Give me a couple weeks! Thanks so much.
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I wish you all the luck in the world, my friend.
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There is a bit of that, isn’t there? Just trying to enjoy the ride:)
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Best idea ever!
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