Happy 4th – Cue the Fireworks

It’s Independence Day, a federal day set aside to commemorate the Declaration of Independence of the United States, July 4, 1776. The document stated that the thirteen original colonies of America were free from the colonial rule of King George III of Britain. The Continental Congress declared the states to be united, liberated, and independent. To this day, we still celebrate this holiday with fireworks, barbeques, parades, festivals, picnics, and family gatherings.

So, why am I telling you all of this? It made me think about how indie authors are independent from the traditional publisher, hence the term, indie. They wear many hats: author, in some cases - illustrator, head of marketing, formatting guru, blurb-seeker, promotions manager, etc.

Though Indie authors lack the backing of a major press, if they do all the legwork, from cover design to eBook formatting, to integral marketing, the royalties belong to them. Having interviewed over thirty award-winning and best-selling authors, I can say I’ve seen my share of thriving indie authors.

Authors rejected by the literary establishment can succeed and have a flourishing career unaided by a literary agent or conventional publisher. With knowledge comes power. If striking out on your own as an indie author seems a worthy proposition, I say, go for it, but do your homework. I suggest at least hiring a reputable editor to go over your manuscript with a fine-toothed comb to catch errors, fix any plot holes, and make certain consistency was achieved, before you upload to Amazon for an eBook or Print-On-Demand.

You may also want to find a few Beta readers to give their opinions of your novel or nonfiction book. While not everyone will like your work, it’s good to get an independent opinion. Beta readers can tell you what’s working and what’s not before you put your baby out there to the world. This way you can make changes based on their feedback.

While self-publishing and traditional publishing are equally challenging in their own individual ways, at least authors have a choice. During my tenure at Long Island Authors and Writers Society, I rubbed shoulders with many self-published authors who hired a company to help with cover design, format, editing, blurbs, and a bit of marketing, and many are quite successful. Some companies will help get your book on Amazon and other platforms too. Like indie authors, self-published authors who use a company are in the driver’s seat with more control over their work. Plus, using a vanity press means fewer hassles and less complicated contracts.

I cheer on all aspiring authors and root for their success no matter which route they take! So, cue the fireworks and celebrate!