Remember when I wrote a novel?
Well, I’m going to self-publish it as an e-book.
Yes, you read that right: self-publish.
Anyone who has taken a creative writing class at the collegiate level knows that self-publication is most often associated with vanity presses and delusional narcissists. The scoff of my graduate professor told me all I needed to know. You see, the pervading idea is that no one will touch you once you’ve self-published — you will be a veritable literary pariah. With the likes of Amanda Hocking floating around, that’s no longer the case, although also admittedly not the norm.
However, I am still aware that my decision to self-publish may be met with the conciliatory, “Oh? That’s nice” from people within my friend and family circle — but, I am willing to risk it.
Here’s why: I am tired of chasing agents, chances, and dreams. I am tired of begging people to consider me as a first time author, or worse, being cast aside before truly asking. I’ve been published in literary journals, I’ve won writing contests (big, national ones!), and yet, I am still not impressive enough. I’m tired of being told no before I even get a chance to start. I am also a generally impatient person when it comes to my personal goals. I work really hard to make them happen as quickly as possible, because as I see it — what’s the point in putting it off my happiness?
After doing some research (and reading this article), I found there’s a wealth of information out there for indie authors, and most of it is positive. I decided, what do I have to lose?
In dramatic conclusion, I am publishing my first novella (40,000 words) Menthol Kisses on Amazon and several other platforms within this weekend. Of course, I will announce it here. Fair warning: the content is sort of dark and graphic and maybe not for everyone.
Logan is a teenager stuck between trying to live her life and simultaneously run from it. Her need to fade from a soul-crushing reality overshadows everything else after a secret abortion and the loss of a close friend. As Logan struggles with drugs, sex, and relationships, she only further digs her heels into the distasteful small town life she so badly wants to escape from.
The cover was a collaborative effort between myself and Jared.
Additionally, I wanted to say a quick thanks to everyone who reads my blog, and those who have tolerated my misspellings and misgivings (my beta readers), and everyone who encouraged me online during NaNoWriMo, when I was cranking out a (really crappy, and now ruthlessly edited) draft of this thing.
How can you help? Self publishing is all about social media.
- I will give away a free copy (in epub or mobi format) to anyone who wants to review the book on their blog or leave a review on the Amazon website.
- Feel free to promote my book or author website >> www.abbystewart.com via Twitter and Facebook.
- Of course, the easiest and most effective form of support would be buying a copy and reading it while you’re curled up in a chair or drinking a cup of tea.
