Choosing a Publisher: A Horror Story

When I first thought about writing a novel, I have to admit I did so because I found myself tired of reading the same paranormal romance theme over and over. I’m a freelance copywriter and editor so it hit me. I could do this beaten up genre some good.

Turned out, the plot of my debut novel, Curse Me Not, flowed out of me as easy as molasses, as did the characters and the pivotal scenes. It was fun taking personal memories, adding a romantic fantasy or two, then wrapping it all up in a paranormal twist that I personally found fascinating—auras.

Yeah, it was all fun and games until it was time to be published.

Take a look at what’s happening in the publishing world today. Book stores closing left and right. E-book sales soaring and the number of good, bad and ugly e-book publishers soaring as well.

The process was ego-stabbing and chock full of panic attacks—and that was after I gave up the dream of signing with a traditional literary agent or publishing house. (Let’s face it. Signing a book deal with one of the big boys/girls for a debut novel sports worse odds than hitting a Powerball lottery!)

Fortunately, Curse Me Not drew offers from several boutique e-publishers. In the end, I chose, not the e-publisher, but the experienced author/editor who happened to work for the e-publisher.

If you’re out there looking to e-publish, here’s my advice. Sign with an editor who (1) truly loves your book, (2) knows the e-publishing ropes and (3) sincerely wants to see you improve as a writer.

That’s what I did. Thank God.