Self Publishing

I am proud to say I am part of the new trend – self publishing. But what does this mean? Some might suggest it means my work wasn't viewed as being worthy of publishing. Hell, I had my own moments of doubt as the rejection letters poured in (137 of them to be precise – although who's counting). In hindsight, which is always 20/20, I am content with where I landed.

The upside – I am in control of everything. The downside – I am in control of everything. Sure, it would be great to be able to rely on a publishing house to market and promote my work, carry the printing costs, book my events, and even manage my creative streaks and personality. Yet what I am finding is this…by self publishing I only have myself to blame for success or failure. Instead of being just another author in a stable of authors contracted by a publisher, I am my own main priority. I know my work better than anyone. I know who reads it and why.

Of course, I also have the luxury of being a marketing/pr professional with a book set in my own backyard. This has helped tremendously, yet I have sales from around the world – thanks to facebook and an awesome website. It's not easy being a self-published author – especially with the stigma attached to it. But in reality, I have nothing to compare this to. I am just enjoying the ride.