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.
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 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.
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!