Holy shit. The work and research is both coming along we'll and stacking up. I've continued reading blogs and exploring websites. The world of Indie publishing is clearly a growing industry. On one poll, listing the top selling ebooks, 2 self-published titles were on the best sellers lists, right along side of novels released by major publishing houses. Of course, almost all of the titles and descriptions sounded like either spy or romance novels. My novel could be considered romantic and/or suspenseful. Especially if you consider filth and existential angst great genre fiction:)
Back on subject... I read one blog, from what seemed like a writer pretty similar to me. She was poignantly overwhelmed by all the details. There are 5 major ebook reader platforms. I'm in the process creating an apple connect account, which is basically how you sell a product on the iTunes bookstore. Of course, my buddies at Z.M. walked me through this process but it was not particularly difficult. Frankly, I have no idea how to sign up for the other ebook platforms, kindle, amazon etc... but with the abundance of online info and support, I think I will be able to figure it all out. My strategy is to take one thing at a time and set realistic expectations for myself. Sure I would love to sell 50,000 copies and resettle in Paris, but there is probably not enough corporate strife and mouth breathing in my novelty catch the hearts of mainstream America.
The goal is to get it out there. I have a full time job and run a not-for-profit in my 'free time'. This novel as taken me a decade to finish. I don't want to take a decade to publish it. So, setting deadlines and doing the best I can to get it out there will just have to be enough.
I am working on a website (I already use weebly for my company website), laying out a small print chap book and organizing a public reading to celebrate the release in my community. This will all come together by the time I get the novel formatted for ebook publication. The time line and tasks don't end there of course but that is my 'one thing at a time' strategy. Feel free to ask any questions. I also have a draft of the website (work in progress!!!) online, theturnpikebythomsibbitt.com. Feel free to send feedback or questions my way.
Don't let a fear of failure or a fear of success stop you. In fact, those things are irrelevant. Just do everything in your power, one thing at a time. Your novel may not be perfect or brilliant, so what. Just make sure it is exactly what you mean it to be.
That's my 2 cents for the day. Give em hell.
Thom
