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 Damien, I'd like to say I'm sorry you are having problems, I hope you get it sorted soon.
I've looked on your web site, it's very nice I must say... But I'd like to know more about you, so I'd say I have to agree with the above. You need to write about yourself, just so the readers know who you are.
I wish you the best of luck...
Hi Jonathan,
Thanks for you input much appreciated. Had a look at your site, nice lots of info.
Man, that's a professional looking site. And book cover.
I go along with DD ref the biog but disagree regarding the JKR quote. Because that's all it is, rather than an endorsement as such. I had a 'good luck' message from Bernard Cornwell, which I've also used on a 'what people say' page in amongst reviews. I don't think anyone could complain about your usage.
Your main problem is yet to come, as you probably know - visibility. My only advice, if you've done the site yourself, is to not be taken in by charlatans who'll insist they can improve your SEO or get you on the first page of Google...at a price. Keep your money in your pocket :(
If you want to see a non-professional (ie self-built) site, but with what I think and hope is a decent layout as regards pages - I have 'Glossary' and 'Real Historical Characters' as WIPs - you might like to take a look at mine (though it was designed for a series) at www.cavalrytales.co.uk
Good job, and best of luck :)