Indie Sci-Fi Writer Audrey Auden Talks to PCN
This past year there was a monumental shift in attitude toward self published authors as was exemplified by the young writer Amanda Hocking. She has sold well over a million copies, initially in electronic format, of her vampire, teen self discovery and zombie books that she wrote in her spare time. Even though her writing has been criticized by some, her phenomenal success has significantly raised the legitimacy of indie writers. So much so that the Wall Street Journal wrote that inexpensive e-books, many from indie authors, have been a huge hit this year.
As with any do-it-yourself (DIY) endeavor creating your piece is not enough. You have to tell the world, and then make sure they tell their friends. You also have to consider your product. In my opinion the end of 2011 will be the end of the novelty of self publishing as it moves closer to being on equal footing with products from the major publishing houses. With this leap in legitimacy comes higher expectations from readers. Indie writers have to consider hiring editors as well as photographers and illustrators to stand out in the indie pool. It’s not just the story, it’s the whole package.
