I appreciate how thorough you are with your research. I reflect on my process in 2012-13. My book wasn't really ready to go out into the world, but I had a friend who designed the cover and did the logistics of the cover with KDP, which made it easy for me. With very little cost, I had a book in my hands. I had a box of books with my name. I did hardly anything to market my book and certainly didn't want to tour around with it. But I had the experience of seeing the process through. I took it offline and 9 years later there is still one used copy for sale on Amazon for $69.81. On July of 2019 two used copies of the book on Amazon. One for $1,476.96 and $151.39 in shipping through ThriftBooks of Motor City. Another copy for $1,476.97 with free shipping from GlassFrogBooks. I sold on Amazon for $18. I requested an answer from these sources why the book cost so much. The answer I got? "Whatever the market will bear." It does make me realize it might be fun to do it again only this time, only put it out when I'm ready to put it out and stand behind it.
Oh, that's exactly what I'm doing! I originally released my new book in 2008 but had such low self esteem around my writing, and I just wasn't ready. A friend read it recently (I hadn't thought about it for 14 years....) but she convinced me to republish. And I'm going for it 100% this time. You should totally do it again!! Let me know if you ever do. I'm happy to give you a shoutout in my monthly zine!
I will do that if I get that inspiration. My mom said a week after reading the book, "Now that I've read your book I realize I wasted my entire life taking care of your father." Two weeks after reading my book she said, "Now that I've read your book I realize if I had my life to do over again I would live my life exactly as you have lived your life." What else need I get from this book? But you're right. I will think it over and see if there is some inspiration again.
Thanks for clarifying these unique differences, Diane. I’ve been trying to figure out what type of publisher I want to be and not once have I ever considered charging the writer to cover publishing expenses. So I think I’m leaning towards indie press. But at the same time, I want to provide something hybrid in terms of community and services, if that makes sense? But I’m with you that people should definitely be wary when approaching companies that claim to provide these services and charge ridiculous amounts with little-to-no return on investment. Looking forward to reading more of your insightful posts!
I think you could do what you want if you offer any services as an option, not a requirement. As I understand it, with hybrid, you sign a contract and get the services from that company. I would think writers would trust you more if they have an option to get a service from you or if they can go elsewhere. You could offer the service and even give people tips on where else to find it. I think the key is to build trust - and you can do that by being transparent and helpful. Hope that makes sense.
Yes, that makes a lot of sense. I like that idea. I’m still in the infancy phase of the company and I’m trying to determine what authors want and need, and how I can best meet that. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m learning a lot. I enjoy reading about these topics and find them very helpful. So thank you!
Good luck with the company!! I'm indie publishing my book - if you ask me what I want/need, I'd say leads to reputable services like web, marketing, etc. I would have paid a coach or consultant to guide me through the process. I want to keep total control but there is so much to learn. And I will be an expert by the end of this process!
I appreciate how thorough you are with your research. I reflect on my process in 2012-13. My book wasn't really ready to go out into the world, but I had a friend who designed the cover and did the logistics of the cover with KDP, which made it easy for me. With very little cost, I had a book in my hands. I had a box of books with my name. I did hardly anything to market my book and certainly didn't want to tour around with it. But I had the experience of seeing the process through. I took it offline and 9 years later there is still one used copy for sale on Amazon for $69.81. On July of 2019 two used copies of the book on Amazon. One for $1,476.96 and $151.39 in shipping through ThriftBooks of Motor City. Another copy for $1,476.97 with free shipping from GlassFrogBooks. I sold on Amazon for $18. I requested an answer from these sources why the book cost so much. The answer I got? "Whatever the market will bear." It does make me realize it might be fun to do it again only this time, only put it out when I'm ready to put it out and stand behind it.
Oh, that's exactly what I'm doing! I originally released my new book in 2008 but had such low self esteem around my writing, and I just wasn't ready. A friend read it recently (I hadn't thought about it for 14 years....) but she convinced me to republish. And I'm going for it 100% this time. You should totally do it again!! Let me know if you ever do. I'm happy to give you a shoutout in my monthly zine!
I will do that if I get that inspiration. My mom said a week after reading the book, "Now that I've read your book I realize I wasted my entire life taking care of your father." Two weeks after reading my book she said, "Now that I've read your book I realize if I had my life to do over again I would live my life exactly as you have lived your life." What else need I get from this book? But you're right. I will think it over and see if there is some inspiration again.
Wow! That’s so amazing. And the biggest compliment a writer can get - you moved someone w yr words!!
Thanks for clarifying these unique differences, Diane. I’ve been trying to figure out what type of publisher I want to be and not once have I ever considered charging the writer to cover publishing expenses. So I think I’m leaning towards indie press. But at the same time, I want to provide something hybrid in terms of community and services, if that makes sense? But I’m with you that people should definitely be wary when approaching companies that claim to provide these services and charge ridiculous amounts with little-to-no return on investment. Looking forward to reading more of your insightful posts!
I think you could do what you want if you offer any services as an option, not a requirement. As I understand it, with hybrid, you sign a contract and get the services from that company. I would think writers would trust you more if they have an option to get a service from you or if they can go elsewhere. You could offer the service and even give people tips on where else to find it. I think the key is to build trust - and you can do that by being transparent and helpful. Hope that makes sense.
Yes, that makes a lot of sense. I like that idea. I’m still in the infancy phase of the company and I’m trying to determine what authors want and need, and how I can best meet that. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m learning a lot. I enjoy reading about these topics and find them very helpful. So thank you!
Good luck with the company!! I'm indie publishing my book - if you ask me what I want/need, I'd say leads to reputable services like web, marketing, etc. I would have paid a coach or consultant to guide me through the process. I want to keep total control but there is so much to learn. And I will be an expert by the end of this process!