Since this series began in January 2018 there have been over 1000 Posts from Your Archives where bloggers have taken the opportunity to share posts to a new audience… mine.
The topics have ranged from travel, childhood, recipes, history, family and the most recent series was #PotLuck where I shared a random selection of different topics. This series is along the same lines… but is a ‘Lucky Dip’
In this series I will be sharing posts from the first six months of 2022
It is an opportunity to showcase your writing skill to my readers and also to share on my social media. Which combined is around the 50,000 mark. If you are an author your books will be mentioned too, along with their buy links and your other social media contacts.
How to feature in the series?
- All I need you to do is give me permission to dive in to your archives and find two posts to share here on Smorgasbord. (sally.cronin@moyhill.com)
- Rather than a set topic, I will select posts at random of general interest across a number of subjects from the first six months of 2022. (it is helpful if you have a link to your archives in your sidebar by month)
- As I will be promoting your books as part of the post along with all your information and links so I will not be sharing direct marketing or self- promotional posts in the series.
- If you are an author I am sure you will have a page on your blog with the details, and an ‘about page’ with your profile and social media links (always a good idea anyway). I will get everything that I need.
- As a blogger I would assume that you have an ‘about page’ a profile photo and your links to social media.
- Copyright is yours and I will ©Your name on every post… and you will be named as the author in the URL and subject line.
- Previous participants are very welcome to take part again.
- Each post is reformatted for my blog and I don’t cut and paste, this means it might look different from your own post especially if you are using the block editor
- If I do share a post which contains mainly photographs I will share up to five and link back to the original post for people to view the rest.
N.B – To get the maximum benefit from your archive posts, the only thing I ask is that you respond to comments individually and share on your own social media.. thank you.
To show how your post will look when featured… here is an example from the last series in the latter part of 2021
This was the first post by Diana Wallace Peach and in it she shares some of the reasons that she reclaimed her titles from a traditional publisher and went Indie. I thought that it might be interesting to those considering both options.
Goodbye Traditional, Hello Indie (Part I)
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A few blog friends and authors have asked about my decision in 2015 to switch from traditional to indie publishing. I thought it might be interesting to share a trio of posts about the factors that informed my decision. These posts are five years old, but my opinion remains the same. If this post, Part I, captures your attention, you can follow the link below to the 2nd and 3rd in the series.
Part I: Pros of traditional publishing
Part II: Cons of traditional publishing (and how they compare to indie publishing).
Part III: Results
***
In 2016, I begun the process of reclaiming my traditionally published books and republishing them myself. I thought it might be useful to document my reasons, particularly for those writers dawdling at this fork in the publishing road, trying to decide which way to go.
I originally published through a small press, and I don’t want to give the impression that this was a bad deal or that the publisher did anything wrong. It was, in fact, a valuable learning experience, especially for a new author and one as clueless as I. A small press may be the perfect publishing solution for many authors, especially if the words “traditionally published” carry personal weight.
Before I dig in, it’s important to state that – with a few exceptions – this was my experience. It reflects my personality, expectations, and quirks. What worked for me might not work for you and visa-versa. In addition, each publishing house is a unique entity represented by unique individuals. It’s reasonable to assume that my comments don’t apply to every small press!
So, what was great about my small press experience?
Hands-on relationships
I wrote a book without a blog and all the valuable online information available to authors. I did zero research on publishing, knew no published authors. Basically, I knew zip. Typical for me.
I can’t speak for mega-presses, but with my publisher, I received generous personal attention. I had tons of questions, sent daily emails, and received prompt replies. The process was laid out for me, contracts thorough and easily understood, my expectations set. It was comforting to know that my endless dumb questions and new-author anxiety were treated with respect and patience.
No Upfront Cost
When working with a traditional publisher, the professional services needed to bring a book to market come at no charge. This includes all facets of editing, proofing, cover design, formatting, obtaining ISBNs, and anything else you can think of. The publisher recoups the costs when the book goes for sale and they contractually take a portion of the revenue. For a writer with few financial resources, upfront costs may be a factor. Besides not having any idea what I was doing, I also had a pitiful bank account. This way, all I had to do was write.
Professional Editing
When I “finished” my first book, I was part of a writer’s critique group. I applied all the suggestions of my cohorts, and my writing improved to the point that a publisher was interested. Yay for writers’ groups! Little did I know how much I still didn’t know.
The editing process commenced. The editor and I went back and forth for an entire year and made hundreds and hundreds of changes – literally. Working with a professional, I received invaluable lessons on the craft of writing. The process improved my book and armed me with a battery of tips to employ on future projects.
This process was highly collaborative, and I was grateful to be able to argue my case when I felt strongly about a point. I understand from a few colleagues that some publishers are less collaborative and some will exercise a contractual right to make the final call on changes.
Covers
As a clueless person, I had no resources for cover design. The publisher worked on the concept and sent me multiple drafts for comment. My contract allowed 3 changes at no charge though we made many small tweaks. I have heard that some publishing houses don’t request input on design and don’t allow changes. I know of one author who wrote a book about “coyotes” and the publisher put “wolves” on the cover. The author was stuck with the wolves.
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Contract Length
My contracts were for one year from the published date. This is a relatively short period when compared to contracts that span 3-5 years. The shorter contract is a boon in the event the relationship isn’t working, or the author or publisher wishes to terminate. My termination required a 90-day notice and there was no cost associated with ending the agreement.
My contracts were on a per-book basis with no commitment tying up future books. This is particularly important when writing a series or serial where a contract may commit future books to that publisher for the agreement’s term. An author may end up making do with the publisher or leaving books unpublished until the contract can be terminated. Contracts are important, and they aren’t all the same.
Paper Book Quality
Publishing houses will likely use printing services of a high quality. Personally, I’m satisfied with Amazon and the quality of their paperback books. However, printing houses will often have more size, style, and color options as well as better quality paper and bindings. Many professional print houses are not “print on demand” so there will be a sizable minimum order or set-up fee that may exceed what the author wants to invest. This was a significant challenge in my case.
So, Why Go Indie?
For someone who knew squat, my experience with a small press was highly instructive. The editing process improved my writing. The service was professional and respectful, the contracts fair.
Yet, publishing through a small press has significant pitfalls. As my knowledge and experience grew, it became evident to me that the challenges outpaced the advantages. Would I accept a contract with a big publishing house with a huge marketing department and a tasty advance? Um…yeah! But in the meantime, I’m going indie.
In Part II, I’ll explain why. Check it out: HERE
©D.Wallace Peach 2021
About D.Wallace Peach
Best-selling author D. Wallace Peach started writing later in life after the kids were grown and a move left her with hours to fill. Years of working in business surrendered to a full-time indulgence in the imaginative world of books, and when she started writing, she was instantly hooked. Diana lives in a log cabin amongst the tall evergreens and emerald moss of Oregon’s rainforest with her husband, two dogs, two owls, a horde of bats, and the occasional family of coyotes.
For book descriptions, excerpts, maps, and behind the scenes info, please visit:
D.Wallace Peach Books
A selection of books by D.Wallace Peach
Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Follow Diana: Goodreads – blog: Myths of the Mirror – Twitter: @Dwallacepeach
Thanks for dropping in today and I hope you will participate in this celebration of blogging. You can accept my invitation in the comments below or email me on sally.cronin@moyhill.com
Reblogged this on Judith Barrow and commented:
Interesting post for all writers from Diana Peach on Sally’s Smorgasbord Posts from Your Archives
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Thanks for sharing Judith..♥
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Glad to, Sally, a great post. xx
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Wonderful way to get the ball rolling, Sally and Diana! Am saving this post for deeper reflection, though I don’t think I’d ever consider going with trad publishing. (I like my freedom to make my own choices too much.) Great post! 😀 ❤
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Fantastic thanks Marcia and for letting me delve into your archives too..♥♥
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Delve away, Rockin’ Lady! 😁
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♥♥
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I accept your wonderful invitation, Sally. Thank you so much! You picked a winner post to kick-off this series. Hats off to Diana.
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Thanks Jennie and delighted to add you to the list and will be in touch with dates when I have scheduled.. looking forward to sharing your posts..hugsx
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Lucky me, Sally. Many thanks!
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Diana has so much to share about writing and publishing. Her experience is valuable. I remember reading about her post and it’s great to read it again. I love this series and love that you pick posts with different topics, Sally.
Please feel free to dig into my archives. The honor is mine. Do you want me to send you an email also?
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Thanks Miriam and I have added you to the list.. no need to send an email… delighted you are happy to participate.. have a lovely week..hugsx
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I appreciate that, Sally. I’ll be busy formatting my book this week. 😊
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Wonderful Miriam and look forward to showcasing..♥
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Thank you so much, Sally. ❤
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This post first came out when friends and family were suggesting I go down the traditional publishing route. I’d been happy with self-publishing and had heard that there were significant downsides to the publishing house route and so it was great to see all the arguments laid out like this. Many, many thanks to Diana and, of course, to Sally. ♥♥
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Glad you found as interesting as I did. Alex I have been self-published now for 23 years and I don’t think I have it in me now to go any other route.. hugsx
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And this was a great pick to get the series rolling Sal. I remember this great post from Diana, and surely worthy of highlighting. ❤ xx
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Thanks Debby looking forward to the new one and browsing already..♥♥
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Ooh, I like this series Sal. And of courseeeeeeee you may help yourself. Just disregard anything wonky because when I moved my blog, there may be some wonkiness, as you already discovered, lol. xox
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Fabulous thanks Debby and already got my eye on a couple…I am at that wonky age myself so it will be fine lol. ♥♥
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Lol. 🙂 ❤
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Thanks so much for the new feature and sharing the post, Sally. Yay. Sorry about the late reply, I’ve been on airplanes and traveling for a few days. I will stop by again his evening to catch up! Thanks for all you do to share our posts and spread the word. Hugs. ❤
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No worries at all Diana.. Happy to share the post again as it was perfect to give newcomers an idea of how their posts will look.. and also because it talks a lot of sense and was worth repeating.. I hope you will let me dive in again for this series.. ♥♥
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Of course, Sally. I’m delighted every time you share. I’m rushing out now to a botanical garden, but will swing back again later. Thanks again for your kindness and generosity. 🙂
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Enjoy your outing..and thank you.. ♥
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I particularly like when you’ve done series like these in the past, Sally. I rarely add new blogs now (not enough time in the day), but this allows me to peruse some bloggers I may not be familiar with.
I remember reading this series of informative posts from Diana, and I appreciated how she shared the pros and cons.
Sure, I’d love to participate again.
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Great Pete always delighted to share your posts.. You are on the list and will send you dates when scheduled.. xx
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Great comment, Pete. I notice the same when it comes to exploring new blogs, so Sally’s features give me a way to learn about new blogs and make new blog friends. Glad you enjoyed the posts! Have a great weekend. 😀
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Hi Sally, I remember reading Diana’s very relevant and interesting article – but it was great to read it again. Toni x
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Wonderful Toni thanks and glad you enjoyed again… looking forward to the new series..hugsxx
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Thanks for reading again, Toni. You’re too kind. Have a beautiful weekend. ❤
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I decided to join your Archives club this time around, Sally. Thanks for doing this. Permission is in the mail!
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Thanks Audrey and look forward to sharing your posts..hugsx
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Glad you’re giving it a go this time around, Audrey. Thanks for stopping by at Sally’s. Have a wonderful weekend!
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Thanks, Diana. Same to you!
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You most certainly have my permission to dive into my archives and share anything you find of interest. I’m happy to see you bringing this back! Fun!
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Wonderful thanks so much Jan and will add you to the list and send you dates when they have been scheduled.. have a lovely weekend hugs ♥
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It’s a great series, isn’t it, Jan? And Sally picks some great posts to share. Have a wonderful weekend!
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I would love to participate in your kind offer, Sally!
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Wonderful Liz thank you and have added you to the list and will send you dates once they are scheduled..Enjoy your weekend..hugsx
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Thanks, Sally! My husband and I are heading out this weekend to take writing inspiration photos.
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Wonderful Liz and look forward to seeing them..have fun xx
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Thanks, Sally!
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Thanks for stopping by, Liz, and glad you signed up. Enjoy your photo-taking weekend. 🙂
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You’re welcome, Diana!
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Sally – you have the best series!!! A great post and a wonderful follow-up discussion.
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Thanks very much Rebecca.. so pleased you enjoy ♥♥
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Sally does have the best series. I don’t know how she does it all. But I’m delighted to be here and so glad that you enjoyed the post, Rebecca. Have a wonderful weekend! Hugs.
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I have come to believe that, where Sally lives, there are more hours in a day. I have no other explanation as to how she is able to do all the things that she does.
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Lol.. thanks Rebecca… just doing what I love..♥♥
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Ha ha ha. That explains it!
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Thanks for reposting this very interesting information, Diana and Sally! Have a good start into the weekend! xx Michael
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Thanks very much Michael.. and you too..hugsx
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Thanks for taking the time to read through the post, Michael. It was fun to discover it this morning. Sally’s wonderful at supporting other bloggers. Have a wonderful weekend!
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Reblogged this on NEW BLOG HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
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Thanks for sharing Michael…hugsx
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Thanks for sharing the post, Michael. You’re the best!
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Great insight into small publishers, Diana 🙂 Thanks, Sally xo
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Thanks Denise..hugsx
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Thanks, Denise. It was a great experience if only to discover that indie publishing was the best route for me. Glad you enjoyed the post and have a wonderful weekend!
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Feel free to dip into my words Sally. Thanks for all your love. 🥰
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Wonderful thanks very much Balroop with add you to the list and give you dates when scheduled..♥♥
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Sally’s amazing, isn’t she? I’m glad you’ll be participating, Balroop. Hugs.
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Great blog post.
Yes Sally please feel free to use any of my blogs.
They can be a bit random.
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Thanks Sue and I will put you on the list.. have a good weekend..hugsx
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You too.
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Thanks for taking a look at the post, Sue. I was surprised and delighted to find it here. Have a wonderful weekend!
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It’s always good to read about the indie publishing route from others
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It’s such a learning experience, Sue, and I continue to figure this thing out. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. ❤
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Interesting post from Diana. My permission is in the mail. Thanks, Sally.
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Wonderful thanks John and you are on the list..hugsx
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Oh good. 😁
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Thanks so much for taking a peek at the post, John. Sally’s a gem. Glad you signed up!
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😊
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That was very interesting, Diana.
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Thanks Jacqui..hugsxx
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Thanks for taking a look at the post, Jacqui. It was such a learning experience and I don’t regret trying the traditional route, but so happy to be indie! Have a great weekend.
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