MichaelSullivan
Maester
Hi, MS, I know self pubbing isn't for everyone, hence the reason we're talking about trade deals. But this isn't about indie versus trade - it's about how big the barrel is that the trade publishers will put you over.
Well, the barrel is indeed pretty big. But's the price that has to be paid. Even so, my traditional publishing has done wonders for my career and I don't regret a single contract I've signed. There's A LOT to be said for the hybrid model.
Russ, no one who takes a trade deal should be paying a single red cent for advertising, promotion, editing, cover design or any of that other stuff. That's the stuff you're giving up your rights and a chunk of your royalties to have someone else do. What you're suggesting is getting a dog and then barking yourself as they say.
I'm in your camp. I can see what Russ is saying, if you spend your advance, you improve your chances of success. But, to me, when you go self - you foot the bills and collect 100% profit. When you go traditional -- they pay the bills out of their cut of the pie.