If you're delving into the whimsical realm of writing - especially in the enchanting and often unpredictable styles of fiction, you have undoubtedly encountered horror tales of the often scary, always hairy, and extremely annoying process of publishing. This journey is akin to navigating a labyrinth filled with unexpected twists and turns, where each corner presents a new challenge.
For those of you that do not know, publishing your own book is exceedingly difficult; not only do you have to proofread and make edits repeatedly (I'm talking double-digit read-throughs here), but you also must be able to review the work as if someone else wrote it (this part is exceedingly difficult). This requires a level of detachment that can be incredibly hard to achieve, as it often feels like you're scrutinizing a piece of your very soul laid bare on the page. You have to be brutally honest with yourself, which can lead to moments of self-doubt and frustration (...and venting tantrums - toddler style, when no one is watching). Hence, writers often require the invaluable services of proofreaders, editors, and/or beta readers. These individuals are assistants in the quest for literary perfection, offering fresh perspectives and critical insights that can elevate a manuscript from mediocre to magnificent.
The reason I've chosen this specific (taboo) topic of my chaotic blog today is due to the immense frustration and horrible experience I had after hiring a so-called "professional company" to proofread and market my debut book: Warriors of Anaa - Tormented Souls. Let me tell y'all, it was a freaking nightmare that still has not ended, and I find myself reflecting on this ordeal with a mix of disbelief and anger. Apparently, these people (channeling some J.K. Rowling here with the whole "he who should not be named" theme) sold me an ISBN for each of the formats of my book but kept the ISBN in their company name after I purchased them! (Yes, you are required to have a different ISBN for each format of the book: paperback, hardcover, digital, etc.) Now, that might not seem like a huge deal to some people, but when you pour your heart and soul into creating something, and someone else puts their name on it, it can truly piss you off. In a way, one's sense of ownership is stripped away, leaving behind a bitter taste of betrayal. Not only did I feel robbed of my rightful ownership, but it also cast a shadow over the entire publishing process, making me question the integrity of those I had entrusted with my dreams. This experience has served as a cautionary tale, a reminder that the world of publishing is fraught with potential pitfalls, and that one must tread carefully and choose partners wisely in this often-tumultuous journey.
Do not fear, dear readers; just to clarify, I (and I alone) still retain all rights and ownership of my work (thankfully!). I am simply attempting to convey how this experience got under my skin.
Lesson Learned
I have always been the type of person that learns from my mistakes. Life has a way of presenting us with challenges and obstacles that, while sometimes daunting, serve as invaluable teachers. After all, the old adage, "fool me once - shame on you, fool me twice - shame on me," resonates deeply with me and rings with a truth that is hard to deny. This saying encapsulates the essence of personal growth and accountability, reminding us that it is our responsibility to learn from our experiences and not repeat the same errors. I would like to think that I'm nobody's fool; I strive to be someone who reflects on past experiences, evaluates them critically, and uses that knowledge to forge a better path forward.
Therefore, I have made the usually frowned upon decision to edit, beta read, publish, and market my own work. This choice, while unconventional, stems from a desire for creative control and a belief in my ability to navigate the complexities of the publishing world on my own terms. Many might caution against such a path, warning of the potential pitfalls and challenges that lie ahead, but I see it as an opportunity to learn and grow in ways that traditional routes might not afford. The process of self-publishing is not merely about putting words on a page; it involves a comprehensive understanding of the market, audience engagement, and the nuances of effective promotion. Each step in this journey presents its own set of lessons, and I am committed to embracing each one.
In the words of the esteemed poet Robert Frost, "and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all of the difference." This profound statement resonates with my current endeavor, as I venture into seemingly uncharted territory, armed with the wisdom of my past experiences. The road less traveled is often fraught with uncertainty and challenges, but it is also rich with opportunities for discovery and innovation. I am fully aware that this journey will not be without its trials, yet I remain optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead.
So... yes, dear readers, before the recent release of book 2 in my Warriors of Anaa series - Breaking Chains, I am literally the ONLY person who read it. Be kind, but honest in your critiques, please. I’m eager for constructive criticism; it's our secret ingredient as authors to create stories that make you go 'WOW', tug at your heartstrings, and stick with you like that catchy song you can't stop humming.
As I embark on this self-publishing adventure, I invite you all to lend your support. Y'all pray for me, wish me luck, send good vibes... or whatever it is that y'all do, LOL! Your encouragement means the world to me as I navigate the intricacies of this process. I am excited to share my stories with the world, and I hope that through my experiences—both the triumphs and the setbacks—I can inspire others to pursue their passions and learn from their own journeys. In the end, it is not just about the destination, but the lessons learned along the way that truly shape who we are as individuals.
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