WHY I CHOSE INDIE PUBLISHING (it's not for the $$$)

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  • Опубліковано 21 тра 2019
  • What's up, my friend? Today we're talking all about PUBLISHING. More specifically, why I chose to indie publish my debut novel 100 Days of Sunlight and why I would never EVER traditionally publish. I also talk about the pros and cons of indie publishing and answer that frequently asked question "is indie publishing for everyone??"
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 204

  • @woozleproductions9760
    @woozleproductions9760 3 роки тому +103

    I didn't think anyone could convince me to self-publish, but you did. I originally wanted to go traditional as I felt more people would read my book. I don't want money from this. I want people to read and enjoy my stories. I want my characters to be loved.
    I care about my characters, how they're handled and my control over them. I don't want another company to see them as just money-making potential and ruin them. They’re mine. It may sound weird, but they’re like a family to me(Obviously not as much of a family as my real family). Thank you for helping me make this decision. Thank you for saving my characters, stories and ideas.

    • @CGAuthor
      @CGAuthor 2 роки тому +4

      Same here. I self publish because I want ppl to enjoy my books, as for money-it doesn’t matter.

    • @judithhope8970
      @judithhope8970 Рік тому +1

      Thoroughly agree. I love my characters. I think we all become quite protective of them. Good luck xx

    • @ceinwenchandler4716
      @ceinwenchandler4716 8 місяців тому

      Yeah, of course. Your characters are your special creations. They're not your children exactly, but something like that. And watching someone else officially mess them up would be infuriating.

  • @josephkoester3217
    @josephkoester3217 4 роки тому +238

    My fear with indie publishing, if I ever do manage to get my book written, is it has little chance of getting big. My fear with traditional is losing the rights.

    • @syberyah
      @syberyah 3 роки тому +75

      But see, if you indie publish, you can learn how to market it well, and if it doesn't sell well the first time and you learn afterward how to market it better, you can likely re-publish it or hype it up for an anniversary to help get it sold.
      If you traditionally publish, that book is *gone.*

    • @ButterCookie1984
      @ButterCookie1984 3 роки тому +64

      @@syberyah Right. And there is NO GUARANTEE that traditional publishing will make your book "go big", or even sell AT ALL.

    • @nikkjcrespo
      @nikkjcrespo 3 роки тому +15

      @@syberyah this is some good discussion, thanks for sharing!

    • @cynthiaking5308
      @cynthiaking5308 2 роки тому +26

      I guess the labor is the love. I want the words I write to be the words in the book. Becoming the next Steven King doesn’t validate me. Selling enough to cover my costs would be a win for me.

    • @antaequeJ
      @antaequeJ Рік тому +1

      @@cynthiaking5308 beautifully said

  • @Victoria-vy7gm
    @Victoria-vy7gm 5 років тому +144

    “And not selling MY CHILD” I can’t😂😂😂

  • @bookishwriter9460
    @bookishwriter9460 5 років тому +80

    A "meet the characters of 100 days of sunlight" would be really exciting!

  • @ButterCookie1984
    @ButterCookie1984 3 роки тому +73

    "Full control is PRICELESS". Yes!!
    I did not realize that it is a ONE TIME SELL. If you sign with a publisher, and it doesn't sell, you cannot then go and try to self-publish it, unless you are willing to BUY YOUR BOOK AND RIGHTS BACK.
    Self-publish ALL THE WAY👍💖

  • @katej3277
    @katej3277 5 років тому +34

    I worry that I won’t be able to advertise enough on my own....but I worry a publisher wouldn’t do that either. Well. Thanks for giving me something to think about!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +22

      Very true, publishing houses look for authors who have a platform and expect said author to do a lot of self-promo. So really, either route you take you'll have to do promotion yourself.

  • @nealabbott6520
    @nealabbott6520 2 роки тому +7

    100% amen, sister! i went selfpub only for the control. i went to a writers conference and after a panel of publishers i almost cried. the trade off is all the control means all the responsibility. that's what keep me up at nights

  • @LiteraryLuminals
    @LiteraryLuminals 4 роки тому +47

    Hi, I totally see your point on everything about indie pub. However, I am planning on going traditional for many reasons. Of course as I am ready to query my novel, my opinions might change. Pretty much all of the reasons why you want to go indie is the reason why I don't want to go indie. I really have a HUGE respect for indie authors because they do everything in their own way and honestly, I love that. However, I do not trust myself. I guess I'm a bit of a perfectionist to the point where if I do something (ex. cover), I will not be sure of it. For example, I could never decide what style of a book cover I want. I feel I'd be too stressed with having to make all of those decisions myself. Also, I don't want to stress too much about things. I'm glad that some of the pressure has been taken off of me with the publisher. Does that make sense? Also, I do not have the funds for things like cover designs and such. To finish this off, I have a lot of respect for any kind of author. Indie or traditional. Just make sure you don't get scammed with vanity presses. I could never do indie because of the control thing. I'll be okay if I get rejected. I'm also okay with the fact that they see it as a product. I'm okay with marketing my novel. Also I like the fact that I have a better chance of seeing my book at bookstores (even though it might not be there, I like the thought of it at barnes & noble just on the shelf lol)
    Anyway, no one really cares but I'm bored stuck in quarantine. Even though you don't care about this comment. Stay safe and make sure to read and write!

  • @hazeltug
    @hazeltug 5 років тому +18

    I've indie-pubbed my very first book 💕 and got so much love and support from even people I don't know (how?) so with good advertising and a lot of people who support you can actually make self-publishing a wonderful experience. Do you know how many bloggers just throw out e-books on their blog for like three bucks...we literally have the world at our fingertips.

    • @vivannagonzalez5976
      @vivannagonzalez5976 5 років тому

      Congratulations on indie publishing your book! If you don’t mind me asking what is the name of your book?

    • @hazeltug
      @hazeltug 5 років тому +4

      @@vivannagonzalez5976 Sure! It's called the adventures and conquests of Ellie the Elephant Shrew

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +2

      I agree Hazel!! It's so amazing to have this kind of control with our art. 👏✨ YOU ROCK.

  • @sarahg4613
    @sarahg4613 5 років тому +22

    I was so curious about your decision! Makes me think about going indie if I ever finish my books 🤔

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +3

      So happy you liked this video, Sarah!

  • @manaavey3676
    @manaavey3676 Рік тому +4

    I've decided to indie publish the series I'm working on. The deciding factor was fear that one book could be picked up ans the rest droppes, meaning my full story would never be told as I'd lose the rights to thr world, the characters etc. But there are many other influencing factors too, and I feel like one which is often overlooked by aspiring authors is the uncertainty of trad pub. You can't decide to go trad pub. You can decide to query agents, you can decide to try, you can throw your life into the process, but nothing is ever guaranteed. Having been raised by a traditionally published parent, I've had first hand experience of how gruelling this process can be. With indie, you can make that decision. You can say "I'm going to publish my book" rather than "I'm going to try and publish my book" and as an Autistic person (and someone with severe RSD) that definitive end result is important to me. I struggle with the not knowing. I struggle with the anticipation of waiting for a response. Whether my books attain an audience or not is another matter, but it's the same with trad. At least I'll know I'll one day have a book to speak of, so long as I'm ready to put in the work to bring it into fruition :) I have the utmost respect for anyone prepared to go through the gauntlet that is the trad pub process, but I'd get a rejection and be like "Fine. It's not like I wanted to be published or anything. Hmph." 😂

  • @philipjohn1254
    @philipjohn1254 3 роки тому +2

    What's the point of having total control over a project that's only going to be read by your family or friends.

  • @syenite
    @syenite 8 місяців тому +2

    I've been an indie author since 2017 and I very briefly chatted with an agent at a webinar a few month back who told me that publishers are sneaking in clauses now that allow them use the book to train their own AI, and the right to use AI art for covers. That sealed it for me, I am never gonna attempt traditional publishing. I started indie publishing because I was tired of being on sub and being told "we already have our two lgbtq books for the season, sorry." I'm staying indie because lol I am not letting a publisher within an inch of a word I write when they are trying to make me obsolete.

  • @chloeharris6460
    @chloeharris6460 5 років тому +4

    Hi, this is the first video of yours that I've watched but I just wanted to say that I just finished an arc of 100 Days of Sunlight and I loved it so much! It was adorable, the characters were great and it celebrated disability in a way I really appreciated! I'm so happy it directed me to your channel 😊😊 xxx

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +2

      THANK YOU SO MUCH CHLOE!! 💛💛💛 This comment brightened my day!! I'm so happy you enjoyed the book and that you're here on my channel! ✨

  • @BeingBackAgain
    @BeingBackAgain 3 роки тому +1

    LOVE your firmly planted roots in Indie !!!! The hoop jumping by Traditional is NutZ!

  • @aceymichaelis9254
    @aceymichaelis9254 5 років тому +6

    I don't usually comment but I'm so glad to hear you're indie publishing! So will I~ :D It's so heartwarming to find others in the industry. New to your channel but your content is already super freaking amazing. Loved this!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +2

      Welcome!! 💛✨ I'm so glad this video inspired you! Thank you so much I love meeting fellow Indies 😊

  • @josiebethamon2615
    @josiebethamon2615 5 років тому +15

    Your book is coming out on my 16th birthday :D I think that's a sign I need to buy it!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +6

      OMG HOW COOL!

    • @syberyah
      @syberyah 3 роки тому +1

      The characters are 16, too (which you've probably figured out by now since this is a year old.) ;D

  • @RKGold
    @RKGold 5 років тому

    I so needed to hear this again thank you!

  • @ScarlettMusiic
    @ScarlettMusiic 7 місяців тому

    These videos are so special! thank you abbie!

  • @authorivyljames
    @authorivyljames 5 років тому +2

    I'm so excited for your indie pub series! It's the route I'm considering myself

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +1

      Awesome!! 👏 so excited to talk more about this in the future 😊

  • @shivamkhandelwal96
    @shivamkhandelwal96 5 років тому +3

    I love the way you shoot at all the problems that all aspiring writers face.

  • @RKGold
    @RKGold 5 років тому +4

    I'm indie, ive only published novellas. I've had back to back good months royalty wise (that's rare for me but I'm happy maybe it's the start of a big change) and my biggest obstacle is the stigma of being an indie.

  • @vivannagonzalez5976
    @vivannagonzalez5976 5 років тому +3

    Amazing video as always. I’m so excited for your indie publishing series!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +1

      Thank you, Vivi! I'm super excited to talk about it 😊

  • @EmilynWood
    @EmilynWood 5 років тому +1

    This is my second video of yours that I've seen and I realized after looking up your book that I've heard about it from someone on Goodreads who read it and reviewed it! Whoever did your book cover did a GREAT job!

  • @madelyn932
    @madelyn932 Рік тому

    THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!! I'm writing an essay for school on this, and I needed some topics to write about.

  • @jesbrimer3096
    @jesbrimer3096 3 роки тому

    I so needed to hear this...along with your other videos lol thank you!!

  • @dianasahe8293
    @dianasahe8293 5 років тому +1

    I love this vídeo Abbie! And I would like to know more about this indie experience you had💛💛💛

  • @anikawalkes8172
    @anikawalkes8172 5 років тому +9

    I've always had kinda the mindset that going indie is way too hard and that I should just take the "easier" road and sell my book to a publisher, but after watching this I actually really want to indie publish all my books because it sounds so much better!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +2

      I'm so happy this video inspired you, Anika! I think you'll love indie publishing 😊

  • @TheAssez
    @TheAssez 2 роки тому +1

    *Thank you.* 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💕💕💕

  • @qamarmasri9331
    @qamarmasri9331 5 років тому +9

    I'm thinking of going indie, when I finish my first novel.
    I learned a lot from that video. 👏

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +3

      YAY! That's so awesome, Kamar! I'm so glad you liked this video 💛

  • @meharbrar3132
    @meharbrar3132 Рік тому +1

    long story short, I can’t do indie yet because I don’t have the time yet for full commitment ( a student ) so I did it traditional. I had control, but will try it.

  • @MikaylaWhitaker
    @MikaylaWhitaker 5 років тому +2

    I'm planning on self publishing my novel as well! Congrats on getting your novel published!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +1

      Yay!! that's so awesome 👏 thank you so much!

  • @authorallysonkennedy
    @authorallysonkennedy 5 років тому +7

    Great video, Abbie! I loved your book, by the way! ❤️
    I’ve been a self-published author for two years using Createspace/KDP, and I’m glad I took that route; however, I’ve also tried and failed for two years to get my books *out there* no matter what I try to do to market them. My sales are almost nonexistent. It’s extremely depressing at times. I wouldn’t trade having control over my book babies for the world, but indie publishing has caused me a lot more stress than payback, unfortunately. 😞

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +3

      Thank you so much, Allyson!! I'm so happy you loved the book! 💛✨ And omg yes I totally understand what you mean - marketing is huge and post-launch strategies are even more important than pre-launch ones. I'm definitely going to be talking about this more in the future, so stay tuned!! I hope to demystify some of the trickier areas of self-publishing that can be super daunting at first glance.

  • @authork.shafer1444
    @authork.shafer1444 5 років тому

    Okay, I just found your videos today and I am DEVOURING them. I'm indie publishing my debut this winter and I have found so much support and information through SPF, the 20booksto50K Facebook group and the Instagram writing community. So glad to see another soon-to-be indie author being open about her decision to indie publish. Good luck on your launch and I can't wait to see what new videos you come up with.

    • @authork.shafer1444
      @authork.shafer1444 5 років тому

      Also, I'm 100% in the same boat as you are. I chose indie because I'm not willing to give someone else control over my art. It's my second baby and I'm going to work my butt off to make sure that it gets to where I want it to be.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      WOOO! *high fives * so great to meet you!! I'm so glad you're on the indie train too 😊💛 I agree 10000% -- I couldn't possibly hand over my baby to someone else's control!! it's so awesome to see the indie author community growing

  • @Literaturajuvenilescritores
    @Literaturajuvenilescritores 4 роки тому

    I feel you, sis. I'm Indie and traditional writer in my country and i can tell you that i never been only traditional publisher. I LOVE SO MUCH THE SELF PUBLISHING. So Thanks for make this video ♥

  • @Robeeh2
    @Robeeh2 3 роки тому

    Very encouraging to hear, thank you x

  • @lalatheia
    @lalatheia Рік тому

    My book, my world, my baby..I will definitely go indie! Great video, Abbie. :)

  • @KatharineFrancis
    @KatharineFrancis 5 років тому +34

    Honestly I don’t know which one I want to go with. They each have their pros and cons. If you go indie you also have to foot the bill for everything so if you don’t have extra money to spend you risk cutting corners and ruining a potentially great book. But I also don’t want to sign all my rights away to a publisher that could end up doing jack shit for me either. It’s such a hard choice to make and I keep flip flopping on what I want to do.

  • @rowan404
    @rowan404 Рік тому +1

    This is EXACTLY why I want to be an indie author! I draw so much from myself and my experiences that I feel like I used a piece of my soul to create my story, so, to me, by selling my book, I would be selling my soul. Not just that, but I’m a huge control freak to the point that, if I had to do a group project in school, especially if it was a writing project, I would sometimes just sit at my desk and refuse to join the group until the teacher let me work alone, after which I would have the best project out of everyone.
    I’m not too worried about having to promote my book all by myself because my UA-cam channel recently passed 1k subscribers and I’ve already introduced some of the characters through short animations. I would love to design my own cover; I would also be advertising my art commissions in the process. And, as for follow-up content, I plan to post oneshots on Patreon, meaning even more profit, as well as official art on social media, again circling back to my commissions!

  • @oddeyes9413
    @oddeyes9413 3 роки тому +3

    I'm making preparations for indie publishing, but will query to see what will happen. Also, writing mantra: *SLEEP IS FOR THE WEAK!*

  • @riverbright
    @riverbright 5 років тому +49

    I'm still thinking about going traditional. The lack of control is scary, but at the same time one of the issues with indie published books is that they often get a bad rap. I mean, published authors have some questionable stuff out there, but they're still seen as 'better quality' than indie published books. I don't know, do you struggle with that? Because a lot of indie books are amazing as well.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +20

      I can totally understand this concern, Germaine! Most indie authors don't put in 110% of the effort to make their book super professional, and thus end up representing "indie" as lower-quality, rushed works of fiction that feel "not good enough to be published." Because this is a commonality in the indie pub world, it is a bit of a struggle for us authors who are breaking into the publishing world.. but there has been a shift lately with indie presses sprouting up who kind of become the "middle ground" for a lot of authors - the press' job is basically to create and distribute the book in a professional way to booksellers so that an indie author doesn't have to figure all this out on her own. (Gatekeeper Press is a good example of this) but as I said in this video, I'm a bit of a control freak and so I'm very interested in doing it all on my own. 😂 And teaching others the tricky parts that can be quite daunting without a press or publisher to help you! but props to your decision and I wish you the best of luck with your future published works, however you send them out into the world! :D

    • @riverbright
      @riverbright 5 років тому +3

      @@AbbieEmmons Thank you! I look forward to hearing more about indie pub from you - there's still time for me to make a decision.

    • @N.Traveler
      @N.Traveler 4 роки тому +3

      Well, let's not forget about Veronica Roth's Divergent series and the Twilight series. Those started off well but ended up being some of the most disappointing books. I don't think traditional publishing is a guarantee for bestsellers. Especially because publishers tend to play it safe and constantly buy the same stuff over and over with a different title. Indie publishing has a lot more potential in terms of finding hidden gems that might become the next Harry Potter. :)
      I think it comes down to how much work you're willing/able to do and time you're willing/able to invest in marketing your own book. Of course, you'll need a lot of skills in different branches (editing, graphic design, marketing) too depending on how much you'd like to delegate. I see your point though! Good luck! :)

    • @b.d.walters9402
      @b.d.walters9402 2 роки тому

      @@N.Traveler Hi....I wanted to comment on your statement on Abbie Emmon's video about Indie Publishing.
      You said: " I don't think traditional publishing is a guarantee for bestsellers. Especially because publishers tend to play it safe and constantly buy the same stuff over and over with a different title."
      I'd simply like to add my take on this sentiment: Trad Pub-Houses are all about supply and demand...they do survey's on what's selling, what the consumer is demanding with their dollars. They then "supply" the demand...that's what drives Capitalism and Consumerism. It's the numbers that matter.
      I' don't dis Capitalism...that's the system that also allows for Indie Authors, Publishers, and Presses to function in the same arena. The difference is that as Independents...we may or may not hit the "TOP 10" list...but our motive and mission is the driver of our work...not the numbers specifically; although the numbers may come as well.
      Just wanted to add to the conversation....

  • @seanlocke9568
    @seanlocke9568 4 роки тому +3

    Indie publishing here! I published my debut last year and I'm working on the first draft of the sequel now. Honestly I wouldn't have it any other way.

  • @lonepanther27
    @lonepanther27 5 років тому +4

    I swear this video speaks to me on a spiritual level. As i have the same views and my first novel will be self published

  • @janetpalmore8363
    @janetpalmore8363 2 роки тому

    Your videos are priceless. Thank you.

  • @HorrorBot
    @HorrorBot 5 років тому

    Ive been finding a lot of great authortubers lately... you ma’am are one of them. Your videos are so awesome and I find such inspiration in your videos!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      Thank you!! so glad you're here! 💛

  • @chryscreates6151
    @chryscreates6151 5 років тому +4

    Indie only, a starting my own publishing company to publish my books. I heard an author story where her book was all set to be released then something happened regarding the book cover, she did not reveal what that was, but the book release was canceled. Yikes! This was in an interview with Joanna Penn on The Creative Penn podcast & UA-cam video several years ago. Not letting that happen to me. I also don't want to beg a literary agent to represent me. No begging here. I am writing a Cozy Mystery series. Thank you for these videos!

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      I agree 1000% Chrysann! I've heard stories about that exact thing happening too… so scary. I love The Creative Penn podcast!! Joanna is an inspiration. 👏✨ that's so awesome you want to start your own publishing company - I can see myself doing that eventually too!

  • @JasonFalter
    @JasonFalter 3 роки тому +4

    Interesting thing I see from people who are writing their first book: "I'm not sure if I want to go indie or traditional."
    Here's the thing... YOU... Yourself, can go indie and release your book. On the flip, it's not up to you if you can "go traditional" at all. You have to get the subjective interest of an agent. Then the agent has to get the subjective interest of a publisher. That's a lot of subjectivity to get through. Meanwhile you could have released your book already.
    You can go indie, and then a publisher may find it that way (Hugh Howey anyone??? The indie sci-fi author that blew the shackles off going indie). He was then able to keep his rights and negotiate deals with publishers to just release his books in book stores. He maintained all rights and all digital rights. He wouldn't have been able to do that if he had gone the submission route with the Wool series.
    I like that the days of the middle man do not hold all the power to getting good stories released now.

    • @crystaleefyffe1230
      @crystaleefyffe1230 2 роки тому

      Romance author Raven Kennedy who indie publishes recently had a UK publisher buy her recent hit series. The last book is coming this year. Another author Emily McIntire just got a deal from Sourcebooks/Bloom Books. So it can happen and I think there has been a shift with how indie authors are preceive. But as usual some people will still be smobs.

  • @SureshKumar-ee9vk
    @SureshKumar-ee9vk 10 місяців тому

    Very informative. I am at the crossroads- i have a few agents interested but like you I love my story and the characters and would like to have full control. Should I give an agent a try of go all in Indie?

  • @jamescarvey2133
    @jamescarvey2133 Рік тому

    Hello, my friend-like you-I enjoy staying at the helm at all times. This video was just inspirational-magic. Thanks, and rock on!🙏

  • @emmalewis6436
    @emmalewis6436 2 роки тому

    Definitely indie 💛 congratulations on your journey to having full control over your beutiful art. I'm writing my own series of witchy memoirs and they are my babies. The thought of giving my work to another is too much lol I'm not fussed about the profit side as long as my art reaches those that need it the most. Weather I sell 50 copies or less, the main purpose is to get my book out there and write more.

  • @melvinhathorn4988
    @melvinhathorn4988 3 роки тому +1

    I couldn’t agree more. I have a friend who wrote a mystery titled “Death in The Garden.” The premise of the story was that the reader had to figure out the cause of death and didn’t discover until the end that the death was really murder. Her publisher wanted to change the title to “murder in the garden” because he thought it would sell better. Of course this title change would have destroyed the whole point of the book.

  • @MasDeNadiaEscritora
    @MasDeNadiaEscritora 5 років тому +2

    I wanna go indie... so your future videos will help me a lot.
    Thank you
    😘

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      That's so great, Nadia!! I can't wait to see your books out there in the world 😊

  • @hannarose166
    @hannarose166 4 роки тому +6

    “It’s about not selling my child!” Haha yaaass preach

  • @dedicatedfelineenthusiast2211
    @dedicatedfelineenthusiast2211 3 роки тому +1

    If I can get the book done I’m definitely going indie. The horror stories that I’ve heard about regular publishing is that if someone comes to them and the book you have a similar to somebody they’re really trying to promote it they will buy the book and then never publish it because they buy the rights. And there’s no competition for the book they’re trying to promote. Thank you for all your videos.

  • @elizabethdelay9534
    @elizabethdelay9534 Рік тому

    I've been thinking about going Indie!

  • @lizzymurphy
    @lizzymurphy 5 років тому

    I'm self publishing my book. It's in the "final edits" stage. Then after that, well... I'm scared and nervous, but also really excited.

  • @KnittingmommyArts
    @KnittingmommyArts 5 років тому +2

    I'm in my second year as an Indie. It's the best decision I ever made. Like you, I like the control I have. I'd be interested in what you've done so far to get ready for your launch. Like...have you written a newsletter magnet yet? how are the ARCs going? do you have an advertising strategy? The usual. Good luck.
    I don't read YA, but I'm looking forward to reading your book when it comes out because I love your style on the UA-cam channel and I want to see what your writing style is like.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      That's so awesome!! ✨ I am definitely going to be talking a lot more about all these things in the future! And omg thank you, I can’t wait for you to read the book! :D

  • @rivermay109
    @rivermay109 5 років тому +1

    Good video! ♥️

  • @spintype4371
    @spintype4371 Рік тому

    This is so great!!! ... Could we possibly talk about testing a formatting (content and e-book) tool for us and give us your opinion?

  • @deekshachauhan4818
    @deekshachauhan4818 4 роки тому

    Helpful🙌

  • @kanashiiookami6537
    @kanashiiookami6537 4 роки тому

    Everything you said is the same conclusion I came to that sealed the deal on why I want to be self pubbed rather than trad. I don't want someone to change my story because they have literally zero clue why it matters that it is the way it is.

  • @krisballard541
    @krisballard541 Рік тому

    I have self-published five books, and I'm currently writing my sixth book.

  • @iviebrooks7768
    @iviebrooks7768 5 років тому +7

    This. This is why I want to indie publish.

  • @ButterCookie1984
    @ButterCookie1984 3 роки тому

    Brand new respect for you🤩

  • @meharbrar3132
    @meharbrar3132 Рік тому

    I decided the date, title, made my own cover, designed every thing, the blurb, I can make another version whenever I want, asking for it to be in a specific bookstore? a click away. and a bunch of help with advertising of course. ALL IN TRADITIONAL. to be honest the ONLY REASON I did traditional publishing is because I’m too young for the commitment for indie. when I’m older maybe, not sure tho. ( keep in mind my current author has downsides but it’s mainly because they’re primarily for textbooks and mine is a poem book, not happy with it but my mother decided and I have no, well, not an adult end of story. ) BUT NOW. I know how to format my book and SEND IT to publishers. so I will do that for the next one ( also a poetry book ) the details of self publishing my book ( with paintings ) would be complicated tho so maybe when I publishing the debut novel I’ll go indie? we’ll see.

  • @ChrisNeuhahnArt
    @ChrisNeuhahnArt Рік тому

    I had two how-to books published. The publisher apologized to for not marketing the 2nd book while it was relevant to the current software release. But they didn't offer to have update the book for new versions. They just threw up that hands. My editor didn't even know the book had been translated to Russian until I started getting emails from people there asking me questions. I did eventual get a Russian copy of the book which was cool.

  • @kacieross620
    @kacieross620 Рік тому

    I know this was a couple years ago but I am very new to the indie author scene as I have been writing my debut novel for about 7 months now and just started social media for it about 2 now. Thank you for hyping indies up so much because it can be such a daunting process. I have a 30 min meeting with a brand new indie publishing company tomorrow about my debut project and I'm wondering what you may see the pros and cons with this being. They are called Spellbound Publishing LLC, and they sound amazing, but they are very new, and I'm trying to look at that front ALL perspectives.

  • @badraven_indieauthor
    @badraven_indieauthor Рік тому +1

    I agree, contract means to sell your work. For me it goes further, to me is selling your "Vision." Having said that, Indie Publishing is brutal, is like being the underdog. I still enjoy being in control of every aspect of my books. Thank you for your video 😉

  • @emilyslittlebooknook-8043
    @emilyslittlebooknook-8043 2 роки тому

    So did you publish through kindle direct or ? How did you get it printed

  • @danielle9275
    @danielle9275 5 років тому +2

    I've thought about both, but ultimately think indie publishing is the best choice for me. Like you said control. I like things done my way that's it 🤷🏻‍♀️

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      AMEN DANIELLE 👏✨ I can totally relate!

  • @brietoujours1343
    @brietoujours1343 5 років тому +2

    I am thinking of going indie after years of being convinced I would go traditional. I know writer friends who were heartbroken when their publishing house made them change key aspects of their books and because I have a series I don't want to risk the second book not getting published if the first book doesn't sell. Plus both industries are changing so much. I just need to find an editor.

  • @authorpatrickniel6958
    @authorpatrickniel6958 5 років тому +1

    I'm an Indie Author. I felt like it was the best way to go. Death's Notebook was my first book.

  • @shastajazzy
    @shastajazzy Рік тому

    What about micro/new publisher?

  • @diannebdee
    @diannebdee 5 років тому +2

    I want to go indie because the subject matter of my book is a little off the beaten path with some controversial elements, and I do not want a traditional publishing house hacking the guts out of my book due to that very subject matter. Will look forward to your publishing videos Abbie. Good luck on "A 100 Days of Summer"..... waffles included.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      So glad you're joining the indie side!! I wish you the best success with your books. I'm looking forward to talking a lot more about publishing in the future too!

    • @diannebdee
      @diannebdee 5 років тому

      @@AbbieEmmons Thank you Abbie. I'm looking forward to any future videos you have on the subject and any others you have planned period. Love your positivity and advice. Question though: Could you do a video on sex scenes? I know you largely cover YA topics, but I'm trying not to make mine seem like soft core porn. Yikes!!!!!! 😓❤❤❤

  • @gargdye1924
    @gargdye1924 3 роки тому

    Great video

  • @thea4676
    @thea4676 4 роки тому +3

    I want to be a hybrid one day, but I think I'll start with traditional as i don't have the money to successfully publish indie right now,

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  4 роки тому +2

      best of luck with all of your writing projects!! You've got this!

  • @laurenknauer3981
    @laurenknauer3981 3 роки тому

    Hi! Is it possible to be a successful indie/self published author without a huge online following or influence? I’m just wondering how much of a difference it makes

  • @natashadeborah
    @natashadeborah 4 роки тому

    please make a video about book marketing!

  • @zenebornman7917
    @zenebornman7917 3 роки тому

    You look like a self-published author Abbie, we already new! 😊

  • @lollyannaclark
    @lollyannaclark 5 років тому

    I'm pulled both ways, so 50/50 for me. Like you say, the control is a big temptation, but that also scares me so much. I have a goodish platform on twitter/instagram, and now I'm trying to build one on here so that if I do indie, I have a way of getting the word out there. Eeep. So scary to think about when my first draft is almost at the end defhkjhkhsqw

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      I know how you feel, Lauren!! It is SO MUCH to think about and organize… definitely a daunting task. I hope you do go indie! either way, I wish you all the success with your future book(s)!! 💛✨

  • @rau1160
    @rau1160 2 роки тому +1

    I finally decided to choose traditional a few days ago but this makes me be choosy once more. On one side i want to focus on writing rather than the technicalities that i could have a traditional do it for me. And that i wont have to promote my book. But the idea that its a one time thing and the chances of my book being waste away makes me want to do indie.

  • @commonsenseamerica1685
    @commonsenseamerica1685 4 роки тому +1

    I guest is depends on your specific situation.

  • @elizabethgracefashion
    @elizabethgracefashion 3 роки тому +1

    Isn’t it easier to self publish when you already have a following online?

  • @emmakusmaul8832
    @emmakusmaul8832 5 років тому +2

    I think you totally just sold me on Indi publishing. I always thought about going traditional but thinking about it now... I feel the same way about the control... I need that when it comes to my baby.
    Also when will your book be available to buy hard copy’s instead of kindle? I was going to pre order till I found out pre order only got kindle. I’d prefer to own the hard copy.

    • @vivannagonzalez5976
      @vivannagonzalez5976 5 років тому

      She mentioned in one of her videos that if you want a physical copy of her book you have to wait till August 7th to order it.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому

      So glad this video inspired you, Emma!! Yes, the hard copies of the book will be available on August 7th, 2019. They might be available for preorder before that, I will let you know! Still working some things out with the printer. :)

  • @r.s.4672
    @r.s.4672 Рік тому

    I agree with this 1,000%! It's about retaining ALL rights to your work and maintaining complete CONTROL over your work.

  • @ameenoahmad
    @ameenoahmad 4 роки тому

    Watching this... changed my views

  • @englishshortstories2818
    @englishshortstories2818 3 роки тому

    Author challenge! Write a short story using only a single picture as your inspiration! More info - ua-cam.com/video/DoljdLopm6Y/v-deo.html

  • @thebardsblock
    @thebardsblock 3 роки тому +1

    I've been offered of a royalty contract and I kinda feel like I wanna turn it down and go self-publish.

  • @foxymoxy2003
    @foxymoxy2003 2 роки тому

    I have been trying to decide if I want to go indie or not but I think I will go indie

  • @alexchandler8476
    @alexchandler8476 2 роки тому

    Thinking about it...Indie.

  • @juliaherkel8051
    @juliaherkel8051 5 років тому +1

    I am planning on self-publishing most of my books, but I would still love to traditionally publish one or two. I kind of think I just want to see what the process looks like from the inside, and just achieve that dream of seeing my book in a bookstore mostly, but still. 😂
    I agree, the control is awesome. Although paying for it yourself is not always.
    Also, I have a question: did you end up getting copyrights for this book? And, if so, how did you do it? :P I'm trying to figure out how, and it's slightly confusing.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +2

      THAT'S SO AWESOME JULIA 👏 I 100% know what you mean about seeing your book in a brick and mortar store… most people don't know this but Indies can actually have a great chance of getting into actual bookstores. It has to do with wholesale discounts + building up enough of a demand + getting in front of booksellers and reps from places like B&N. More on this in the future for sure!!
      And re. copyrights: Yes I copyrighted my book directly though the Library of Congress, it's actually super easy (minus how antique their website is lol - basically like every tax website 😂) Here's the link: eco.copyright.gov/eService_enu/start.swe?SWECmd=Start&SWEHo=eco.copyright.gov You'll need to start an account and then go through the process of filling out the info + uploading a PDF of your work. It's like a $55 charge. Definitely something you want to do before sending your book to anyone though!!

  • @ULVT
    @ULVT Рік тому

    I am a musician (I want to release books ass well) but I’m releasing my music as Indie. Because it’s my work no one will control and own my work.

  • @MrsSukre07
    @MrsSukre07 3 роки тому

    I am a traditional published writer but now I'm thinking of switching side to Indie due to the reason stated by Abbie as well. I hate the fact that I can't have some control over my book especially pertaining the book cover. My first book, the cover is so horrible and out of the genre I had to explained myself to the reader *sobs
    I will most definitely going Indie for my next book.

  • @booksandbrushes4868
    @booksandbrushes4868 4 роки тому

    I've always been leaning to self pub. I'm the same, I can't loose that control... I'd rather put in ALL the work. Yes it's an investment... But for me it's worth it. Either way publishing is publishing, both should get respect and it's about whats right for you 💛 indie is quality!

  • @marcuspowell7042
    @marcuspowell7042 2 роки тому

    I love her....She get to the POINT, and spare the fluff!

  • @dreamcrafters7451
    @dreamcrafters7451 3 роки тому +1

    Is Indie publishing FREE??
    I started writing my book a few months ago, and I am looking into using money for little things.... I still have a long way to go... But I think that it will be better if I at least have an idea for publishing my novel....

    • @annathiemann1837
      @annathiemann1837 3 роки тому

      Yes, it essentially is. Kinda. You can go to Amazon kindle publishing and just publish anything as an ebook. But if you really want someone to buy it and want your book to be good quality,you have to put some money in for an editor at least and maybe a cover designer and ads. If you want to indie publish with print books, you can do that with print on demand „for free“. Which means you don‘t have to pay for it, but will earn less royalties.

  • @Granzteelvids
    @Granzteelvids Рік тому

    How do you protect your books from being plagiarized by other competitors especially as you are only starting?

  • @bpoullos
    @bpoullos 5 років тому +1

    if/when I get to that point, I'll likely roll indie.

  • @maaquijano
    @maaquijano 2 роки тому

    I'm INDIE all the way!!!! 🌻🌻🌻

  • @joseefinb
    @joseefinb 5 років тому +1

    I'm totally thinking about going indie too, once I finish my novel, but I gotta start first! :D But there's the problem I've been thinking about for a really long time - When the book starts, is it where the story starts, or would it be too soon for something like an action to happen at the beginning of the book? Is it better to start a little slower and work up to the action, or can I start with it? I've read so much about this, but I still don't know what possibly could be more fun to read and catching the reader's attention, and make them read the whole book, while being actually interested in the story, from (possibly) page one.

    • @AbbieEmmons
      @AbbieEmmons  5 років тому +1

      That's so awesome you're thinking of going indie too! 👏✨ And mmm that's a very good question about the opening of your novel. I would say a big emphatic YES it is totally fine to start your novel with action - better than a slow build-up ANYTIME, in my opinion. Have you seen my video on outlining the opening act of a novel? I think it might help: ua-cam.com/video/TUzjLe7FxzY/v-deo.html

    • @joseefinb
      @joseefinb 5 років тому

      @@AbbieEmmons Ooh thank you, I will check it out, your videos/posts always help 😄❤ I guess I worry too much about how it is and isn't supposed to begin, but maybe it doesn't even matter that much 😄 (I won't begin with my mc checking herself out and describing her eye color in the mirror though! 😄)