My novel is done!!!

Joined : 03 Sep 2007 Posts : 77

It is frustrating Jeff, but as John says the only answer is to keep going and stay positive no matter how many set-backs you get.

Just think, the very next publisher you send it to might just be the one.
And if it isn't them, then it might just be the next one.

Keep at it.

If you run out of publishers there is the self-publishing route.
Print on demand services mean you can self-publish at no cost to yourself, but as you have commented on the other thread, there is the question of promoting it. Keep plugging away at the publishers mate and just hold the other route in the back of your mind, just incase.

Good luck with it.
Paul

Subject: Re: My novel is done!!! Mon Oct 15, 2007 2:12 pm

Jeff,

Click on the underlined "self publishing" part of my last post to go to Lulu.com where you will be able to assess the cost.

Having said that the US is a big place, keep sending it out.

Alan

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

Thanks Paul. I won't quit.

Alan, I have heard nothing but good things about Lulu. They are definitely my back up plan.

Thanks

Jeff

Joined : 03 Sep 2007 Posts : 77

If you do choose to go via lulu, then I can say from personal experience that there is no charge for the basic service. They make their money by taking a percentage of royalties (20%) as/when it sells.
Yes they do offer other services that cost, but it is all open and above board, and as I say there is no cost to you for the basic service.

The only minor downside cost-wise is that I had to pay to purchase a copy for proof-reading (two copies at differnent times actually), but it's not massively expensive as you buy at "cost" rate.

Paul

Subject: Re: My novel is done!!! Sat Nov 10, 2007 3:30 am

I would suggest not self-publishing. If you can't sell it, sit on it, write something else and when you eventually break in, you can wheel out the other stuff you've done.

Firstwriter has a decent online directory of agents and publishers, though it costs a few pounds to become a member.

BTW: Many publishers don't accept non-agented submissions. You're better to exhaust all avenues of agentry before going direct. BUT don't pay fees for representation. Just don't.

Joined : 07 Nov 2007 Posts : 84

I agree with Martin. If you self publish, you could end up selling them out of the trunk of your car. Just don't give up and keep writing Jeff, good things will eventually happen.

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

Thanks guys. At the risk of jinxing myself, I actually have two publishers interested as we speak. Pray for me!

Jeff

Subject: Re: My novel is done!!! Tue Nov 13, 2007 10:08 am

Hi Jeff,
That's great pal! We will pray for you along with keeping our fingers, toes, and eyes crossed too...

Good luck buddy ("luck" meaning when preparation meets opportunity).

Take Care,
Lito
_________________
The essence of true love is purposeful effort.

True happiness is attained through fidelity to a worthy purpose.

Winners take chances and perceive pressure as a privilege.

Whatever you believe, it's true.

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

Thanks Lito! I would be over the moon if this came through for me.

Jeff

Subject: Re: My novel is done!!! Tue Nov 13, 2007 2:19 pm

Got my fingers crossed for you Jeff.

Alan

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

Thanks Alan!

By the way, the main character of my next novel I've already begub is named Allan, although he spells it with an extra 'L' Smile

Jeff

Joined : 30 Aug 2007 Posts : 47

Jeff:

I´ve heard that when most novelists publish their "first" novel, they´ve normally got two or three manuscripts under the bed. If you can´t find a publisher, ask the friendliest ones for constructive criticism for your next book. ..

Rupert

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

I've heard the same Rupert.

Usually the FIRST novel gets published AFTER the second or third once that author has made a name for him/herself.

thanks!

Joined : 07 Nov 2007 Posts : 84

Jeff,

Do you find yourself leaning towards any particular genre in your writing.

Do you model your protagonists after yourself at all, ie self protection or other hobbies or interests.

Admin Joined : 13 Aug 2007 Posts : 177

Rusty

All my stuff is fiction. Usually, thriller/suspense and horror.

I've been writing for years and had done well with some short stories yet always wanted to write novels. I am a school teacher so sometimes my time is limited.

My most recent novel is classified as a suspense/thriller and yes, of course there is martial arts in it! Smile

And yes, the protagonist has some characteristics of himself that are modelled after me, however the the main character of my new novel does not.

WHEN (positive thinking!) it is published I will try and do a book signing your way and will give you a signed copy Wink

Take care

JEff