Hi everyone,
I have been asked to give you all an update on my self-publishing dilemma.
Just in case some of you do not know, I decided to give self-publishing a go for my first novel, Jacob Jones.
At the beginning of April of this year (seems like last year) I found a company that said they could do all this for me in 4 weeks but mostly they get it done in 3 weeks.
Well I have a website ready but NO books yet, No PR, No Posters or Bandstand, NO e-book ready and No confidence left in them.
I had to cancel two press statements because I did not have a book or a cover. On the third attempt I HAD TO PRINT A COVER OFF AT HOME and rap it round a book to make out it was my book… Shame, I felt like a prat.
I was promised everything on my doorstep by the 30th. When I phoned them today to see if it was on its way I was told, "What more do you want us to do"
My book launch is in two weeks…. Just got an e-mail to say the proof copy will be with me before 1030am.
Do not let this put you off, Just don't go with the same people whatever you do…….
Have a look http://www.jacobjones7.co.uk/
If you have been down this road we would love to know, good or bad.
Damien ;(
Hi A Fox,
Never seen a HP website like this so I don't understand that part. The book is aimed at 8-12 year old so a simple click on site, order and go is what I wanted to start off with.
I take it your NOT a HP fan. Any association to HP can only be a good thing if you are a fan of them books/films.
Your the first to say you don't like the cover and I bet you will not be the last... Its hard to make everyone happy.
I can add to the website as I go on, Chapters samples so on. Thanks for your input every little helps.
Damien
"I would not buy this book."
I doubt you're the target audience :)
Professional?!
I'm going to be brutally honest. When I look at that site I see a poorly put together Harry Potter knock-off. The same font is even used! The site is very basic, something any of us could put together in an hour on blogger. And that, er, "quote"? No. Get your money back. The blurb describes HP then throws in an 'also' that doesn't tell me anything of the conflict and certainly does not hook me. I would not buy this book.
You need to find & promote your USP and if you are determined to self pub then get a good cover, more info on site, perhaps some sample chapters. If you are going o inc. qoutes & ratings then send it to free to some people to get some proper ones. Try other self pubbers in your genre...
Good luck!
P.s.This may seem a bit harsh, but it's meant in a constructive manner. Even if you have to push back your pub date by a month or so (or get a better cover and release it, then work on the site ect after...) it is not the end of the world. You have no doubt worked hard to get here...a bit more time will just mean greater success. :)