Happy September, writers! Join our support group to vent and celebrate this wild writing journey at our founder’s blog, Alex Cavanaugh.
Thank you to this month’s courageous co-hosts: Toi Thomas, T. Powell Coltrin, M.J. Fifield, and Tara Tyler!
IWSG Day Question: What publishing path are you considering/did you take, and why?
I never anticipated becoming a writer, much less an author, but now eight published novels sit on my shelf.
After writing a few stories, I wanted to publish my debut novel, With Good Behavior, in 2009. I bought a print book about publishing (remember print books?) and took a stab at writing synopses and queries for agents and publishers.
Rejections rolled in–disappointing then but not surprising now after I have learned more about the finicky publishing business.
Luckily, I discovered a new small publisher that specialized in romance novels like mine, and I was THRILLED when they accepted my novel!
Omnific Publishing taught me so much about editing and marketing, and we published four novels together.
In 2014, I sought more creative control for my New Adult romance trilogy, so I ventured into self-publishing. But the awesome author friends (including critique partner Nicki Elson), editor, and book designer I’ve met through my publisher have been instrumental in creating four novels.
I love self-publishing! Though it’s a challenge to spread the word about my books, I enjoy the speed and entrepreneurial spirit. And there are so many cool writers and readers like YOU I’ve met along the way.
Jennifer Lane Books 
I never thought I'd be an author either.I think going with a small press does a lot to kick-start an author's career and lets them get their feet wet.
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Happy IWSG Day!I wrote my first book by accident. I think it's easy to discover the writer within, but being a published author takes a bit more effort.I'm glad you've discovered the path that works best for you.
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I decided to self-publish as well, since my submissions got rejected more often than an ugly girl at the Prom. It has been a journey, but, as with you, those who have helped shape my books like Heather McCorkle, have made it much easier. I wish the highest of sales to a fellow dreamer. 🙂
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An author by accident, that'd make a good book title. Or \”An author despite myself\”! I've always wanted to write but life just got in the way. We've all got different stories but have ended up in the same place. Isn't the Internet, self-publishing and everything else that goes with it wonderful?
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It's wonderful that self-publishing came into existence. So many writers wouldn't have the opportunity to publish and realize their dreams without it.
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That's great that both paths have taught you a lot and have been good paths for you. Being a hybrid author can be ideal.
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