Another big project I'm working on is my second epic fantasy series. Though I'm feeling more comfortable and at ease with self-publishing, I'm still looking around for a reputable independent press to handle this series. The thing about this is, there are lots of those small presses popping up here and there. How am I to know if they'll do a good job with my book? Will they design a great cover? Are their editors professionals? Will they see my book is sent out for reviews? Will they make it available at all the major retailers?
These questions are important and sometimes I know an author who has worked with a particular publisher and I can learn some insider secrets relating to the competency of the company. But another good way to rate a press is by reading some of their products. And because of the reasonable pricing of ebooks by most independent presses, I can afford to sample their wares before submitting my own golden prose to them.
I currently have a list of nine small presses I'm considering for submitting my newest book. Over the next few weeks, I'll be shopping for samples of fantasy books published by these possible targets for a round of query letters. By spending a few dollars I'll get insight into the quality of books and know if a particular publisher is for me and me for him. If you have a romance book looking for a home, check out the independent press that is home for my books, New Concepts Publishing. They have a wide selection of books at low prices.How did you find a publisher or how are you going about finding one? Have you ever read a book mainly to learn what quality of book is being published by a press?
9 comments:
That's a smart way to do it.
There are quite a few bigger presses that won't spend much on marketing or review copies for a newer author either. Asking around it the best plan of action.
This is where networking comes in handy. Whenever I'm looking for other options I check if those publishers have published anyone I know, then I write them and ask about their experiences.
Most authors will give you the skinny that they can't say in public.
I do the publisher rounds exactly like you do, Sue. I find different publishers, then buy some books in my genre and see how they did. Several ebook publishers I found reputable and plan on querying when the time comes, and two that I would never submit to. I believe it was definitely a good investment of my time and money.
Tough questions! I look to see where their books are on Amazon in terms of rankings because it gives you some idea of sales.
Never thought about looking at other books - I was just happy to find a publisher!
I really like that idea. Reading things from their catalogue to find their level is a pretty good way of sizing them up. Good luck :)
I may look into small presses again. Probably after the A to Z Challenge. I need a solid week to rock and roll and look for a small publisher and an agent.
Good luck with your search!
I've never looked for a publisher, so no, but reading other books they've published seems like a good idea.
I wouldn't read one book to judge a publisher; much depends on the editor the author's assigned, and even small presses have several editors. I agree with Maria - better to ask one of the authors published with them.
Good luck with your search!
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