Virgin

I just received a rather sharp kick to the nuts. Apparently, I shouldn’t have ventured into the world of self publishing if I wanted to be represented. Or, I should at least have my next story ready.

This came from me asking for representation from an organization that I won’t name for privacy reasons. The proclaimed that jumping onto a project that has already been published will not pan out for them or the writer. Apparently the book industry would rather an untested manuscript over one that has even pretended to see the light of day.

I find this both depressing and illuminating. I was under the impression that it would be better for everyone involved if I jumpstarted the distribution of my “work” and started to make a name for myself. That would create less work for both publishers and agencies because, again my thinking, I would already have a minor audience. It would show my dedication to the craft.

HOWEVER.

Since that is not the case, I will not be releasing my next work when it is done without an actual publisher behind it.

I love the people at Friessen Press. They have done great work for me, and helped me to realize a new passion. They have the tools and the connections to help me realize a new way to express myself. Unfortunately, I have to use their connections and go into that realm myself. By that, I mean that they give me the e-mails and phone numbers for connections, and it’s up to me to make it happen.

Now, in theory, this is a fantastic way of doing things. The big downside is that I am learning as I go naked into this world of writing. I have learned so many things, am still learning so many things, and don’t know that I have missed an avenue to explore until it is too late. As I mentioned in my last post, I am working on a new project. Since it is still in a very unexplored stage, I am not going to divulge what it’s about. I will say that I am about 4000 words into it (not 10 pages) and it’s going very well!

If you want your name in the thank-you portion, please consider giving to my Patreon. Even a donation of $1 a month will mean you’re listed.