GUEST AUTHOR BLOG: FRAN HECKROTTE
GOING INDIE AND THE
RACE IS ON
As a writer whose works have been traditionally published
for years I have to admit I was spoiled. All I had to do was write a story good
enough to be accepted. Now I know I make it sound simple. The truth is, writing
is hard work. It involves painting a picture, but rather than using colors the
author uses words. Not an easy task.
The written language does not easily convey nuances,
innuendos or emotions. Dialogues must often
be explained. The meaning of one word
can be interpreted so many ways. Take stop.
Is it an order? Was it yelled or whispered. Perhaps it was a plea. Writers
must make it clear to the reader their intent.
Then there is narration. Is it too detailed or very
lackluster? Readers interests quickly turns to boredom if the writer can't draw
them into the story. Characters and settings need to be visual images, not just physical descriptions. How a reader relates
to each ultimately determines the success of the story.
Authors today have the luxury of self-publication rather
than suffer the angst of waiting for weeks or months for the acceptance or
rejection letter from the traditional publishers. Being an Indie, though, comes
with a price beyond the monetary investment. I learned this first hand.
Recently I started my own publishing company, Novel Ideas Publishing, LLC. My
very first release, Odyssey of the Butterfly, is an anthology of five short stories with a central theme. When
I made the decision to self-publish I knew it wasn't going to be easy but never
realized how much I didn't know about the publishing side of the business. As I
said, I was spoiled. Fortunately there are other authors willing to share their
experience and expertise. I have found a community rich in knowledge and generous
with their time.
Still, being an Indie is a one-hundred percent hands on
experience that requires dedication, hard work, research, and a willingness to
work with others whose expertise is necessary to produce a quality product.
Copy editing, an appealing cover, proofing, etc. cannot be overlooked in the
rush to publish. Success comes with patience. It's better to be the tortoise,
slow and steady, than the hare, fast and reckless. Everyone knows how the story ends but only
those who have gone Indie can really appreciate the journey and the obstacles
that need to be overcome.
If you are an author and want to be published, consider the
choices carefully. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. If you do
decide to self-publish, fasten your seat belt, hold on to your hat and prepare
yourself for an interesting ride. No one can guarantee your success. You may
not even make it to the finish line, but if you do…Congratulations! You've just
made it through the quarter-finals. Next comes 'promotions' and after that the
race is on.
Fran Heckrotte, Author/Publisher
Winner of the 2011 Alice B. Readers Award
The Illusionist Series
Solaria Series
Odyssey of the Butterfly
Comments