I confess: I Used to be Such a Snob ...

It is imperative that, as humans, we constantly learn and grow ...  

One of my editing clients, Steve Retka,  recently self-published his historical fiction thriller, The Poisoner's Recruit, and my copy arrived last week. I'm so excited to read it in its final form! 😁

I also have other clients currently working their way through the self-editing process.

As a reader, and fellow writer, I recently volunteered to read the first draft of a fantastic short story by J.M.Turner and have several other similar works lined up to read.

But, I wasn't always so open-minded when it came to self or indie published books.

Around 2014/2015, self publishing pushed into the publishing industry as its own avenue and demanded the attention of readers, writers, editors, and publishers alike. At the time, I was at university, and many of the discussions happening there - and across the wider literary world - painted self publishing in a fearful light.

People warned that removig the 'gatekeepers' of fiction would harm the industry. Yes, soe of the titles released during that time weren't exactly shining eamples of quality ... But, self publishing also opened doors for people who, for the first time, could truly see the possibiltiy of their work existing out in the world. 

This post isn't about critcising traditional publishing or celebrating self-publishing above everything else. The route a writer chooses is their decision, just as the kind of stories a reader prefers are entirely their own. There is not 'right' or 'wrong' publishing route. 

Instead, I'm simply asking for openness.

My mind can sometimes be easily influenced, and for a while, I believed the hysteria surrouding self-publishing. Now? I'm considering self-publishing my own book, helping other writers edit their manuscripts as they prepare to publish independently and - at the moment - I find myself wanting to read more indie and self published stories than traditionally published ones. 

That doesn't mean I've turned my back on traditional publishing as a reader, a writer, or an editor. I still enjoy plenty of traditionally published works. But, I'm finally recognising the value that indepently published stories can bring to the literary world.

How has your perspective changed recently? Let me know below.

Keep your eyes peeled for more news on my writing here and on my Instagram!