Does anyone here have an experience with self publishing? There seems to be a huge number of web sites offering self publishing, print on demand and marketing services...

With so many about...there's got to be a lot of sharks out there...but some good ones too??

Be good to know of any success stories from anyone who's used one of these companies. Is it a good idea or not?

Derek.

Hi Derek,

I've self-published, but independently, without using a self-publishing company. It's not difficult to obtain ISBNs, format the book and save it with Acrobat or PDF, then find a decent printer. I used Antony Rowe, and they were incredibly helpful. The companies who accomplish the whole package for you, from editing and proof reading, obtaining ISBNs to designing the cover seem mostly to work with POD - Print on Demand. I believe there are good ones and bad ones, but I think you'll find that few do anything much in the way of marketing, and that's the main problem area for authors. I'd say that your best bet is to investigate thoroughly before deciding. Ask for samples of the books they've published - quality varies considerably - also the names of authors who can recommend them, and exactly what marketing they undertake. Usually it's just a place on their web-site, and it's unlikely that many sales will be generated by this method, as most of the users of the site will be authors looking to self-publish rather than readers. Being published is all well and good, but you want readers too. Take your time, make sure you know what you're getting for your money. With luck you may get some more answers to this post - I believe there are a few authors here who have used self-publishing companies.

Nell.

Thanks for the advice Nell, I will be very careful. I don't have anything ready to publish at the moment so there's planty of time to investigate. One of the main reasons I posted the question was that I keep seeing Self Publishing companies advertising on this site (there are 3 listed under 'ads by google' on the left right now...)

You're right, there must be at least a few authors on here who have used these companies...so would be great to hear about them.

Thanks again,

Derek.

Derek,

As you'll see from the article about self-publishing on this site, I have, like Nell, had experience of using Antony Rowe. They are totally trustworthy and very helpful. In fact, I'm just about to make use of their services again, to print a book I have been writing for a Canadian client and to re-print a self-published book which is still in demand.

It's true, as Nell also pointed out, that marketing is the major problem. With the book I did there was a very identifiable potential readership. Fiction is a little trickier. I wonder how it would be if a writer just took on the selling as well as the publishing. A market stall with just the one product, a poster or two, the author on hand? Might seem a bit desperate but it might be fun and it would probably generate at least local publicity.

Richard.

Thanks Richard, If I decide to self publish (if I ever finish my book), then I will look up Antony Rowe first.

I think marketing myself would be fun too.

Lots to think about. Thanks again,

Derek.

Very interested to read your question about self-publish websites as had been wondering the same thing and have just put a query about it oafter the interview on the site with Susie Kelly who managed to get her first book reviewed by self-publishing it and then got it taken up by Bantam. Best of luck with your writing.

Hi, I've self-published two books: the first being a book of poems, "Tidal", which I did through Central Publishing - they were a bit slow and kept having to be chased up about stuff, but I was more than happy with the end product. The 2nd, "The Hit List", was through Authors Online, who were fine, but rather old-fashioned in their approach, and I woudn't go a bundle on their editing/marketing "functions".

For both, I did the marketing/selling myself and with the 2nd have enjoyed a book signing locally and setting up a quite productive stall at the Winchester Annual Writers' Conference. (The first was actually for charity and is all but sold out now).

I don't think I'd use either again (though both were useful in terms of learning about the business etc) as if no commercial company takes my 2nd novel, "A Dangerous Man", then I intend to set up my own small imprint next year and publish it myself - much like Nell has via Antony Rowe"

Good luck with your stuff!

A
xxx

Thanks for the info and advice Anne, and the best of luck to you, and to 'AF96' too.

I get the impression that a lot of authors on this site will be interested to get self publishing advice and to read who's 'good or bad in self publishing' on this thread, so if anyone else has any comments or experiences to add...keep 'em coming.

I looked up the Antony Rowe site, it seemed very straight-forward and the prices were better than I'd expected. Just gotta finish the book now ...

Derek.

I just had a thought (I get 'em now and then...); Does anyone know of any websites that sell self-published books? I know that music sites such as 'CD Baby' sell independent music CD's that are pressed on demand, but is there a similar marketplace for books?

Derek.

Hi Derek,

I've been watching the thread with interest as I'm trying to get a collection of flash fiction amongst WW members together.

As far as I know lulu.com is a US based site that self-publishes for 'free'. You only have to pay for ISBN's and any original artwork (if required). They then sell the book on-line and retain 20%.

According to their site, purchasing an ISBN allows the product to be sold on other sites such as Amazon, and in books shops.

Shay

Thanks Shay, I'll take a look at lulu.com

I'd love to hear more about the collection of work you are organising too...are you looking to publish a collection of flash fiction stories then?

Derek.

...I had a quick look at lulu.com, seems OK... It's a shame that it's hard to find from a google search though as it won't get much 'passing trade'.

Hi Derek,

I only found it myself from a sponsored link on WW.

As for the flash collection, if you look in the forums, or go to the flash fiction group (writers groups) , you'll find out all you need to know. It isn't a 'closed shop' so if you'd like to be involved let me know.

Shay

Thanks Shay,

I think there's a big gap waiting to be filled here. A high profile website with good marketing could shift lots of 'self published' books.

Maybe the Write Words people should do it and call it 'Buy Words' or something...as a sister site to compliment this one and provide members with an outlet (Hey WW don't forget who's idea it was )

Derek.

Nell

how do you feel about your experience? was it worthwhile? did you manage to get any distribution? i'd love to hear more!