The Self-Publishing World

Once I started writing Live Cheap and Free!, there were these lingering worries in the back of my mind. How do I run a website? A shopping cart? Package a book? Insure the eBook will download? Process payments? But I felt strongly that this project was not for traditional publishing – it’s timely now, not a year from now (we hope); regardless, people will always want to know how to save money.

I kept shoving those worries out of my mind, or at least trying to, until I actually finished the book. And I finished last Wednesday. On Thursday, I was visiting one of my many online writing connections, Writers Weekly, and noticed the self-publishing sidebar on the left. I had been aware that the author of this newsletter had a self-publishing company, but never felt the need to check it out.

I spent many hours researching the companies, and finally decided on Booklocker.com, which is Angela Hoy’s company. I submitted my book, understanding that it could take up to a week for a rejection or acceptance.

I had my answer the next day! Only 10% of submissions are accepted, and by having my book with them, I can offer both eBook and traditional print formats. They also take care of the sales and customer service issues, which intimidate me at this point in my career.

I’m in the middle of filling out the contract now. Turn-around for availability is 4 to 6 weeks, so I’ll be starting the marketing push really soon. Hello, press release education!