Loose Change

I’ve been in at the start of three epub companies now and seen them grow  “old”--  in epub years – through time.  I’ve also been fortunate enough to sell to one epub that was not a start up when I signed a contract.

There is definite excitement when a new epub starts. Often there are new authors who are bubbling over with enthusiasm mixed with, if things are done right, more established authors who are contributing but have been in this rodeo before and aren’t quite as excited.

An established publisher tends to greet you, make you at home, and then leave you to promo and write according to their established practices.  Not as exciting, perhaps, but reassuring.

In terms of writing, I’ve never had quite as much fun as when I was the new kid in a new pub and throwing everything in to make a reputation for myself and “my” company. The writing buddies I made when I started are pretty much still all my buddies.  It was a great learning experience.

In terms of money and reputation, I’ve gained a lot more by being with the established publishers.  I’ve never had the misfortune of going to one that folded, although I got to see the trouble my friends and family have had when that happened.  I totally agree with the wiser authors on blogs who say check out the publisher and see what they’re like before submitting to them. Of course, there weren’t many epublishers to choose from back in the day, but I didn’t do any of  that myself the first time. I was more cautious later once I had more insider info.  

I don’t begrudge anyone the excitement of being with a new pub and the camaraderie you feel with a small group of authors who are boldly going forth into the unknown. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If the company succeeds, it's a great chance to get in "on the ground floor"  and become one of those established authors we all look up to. But having had that experience, I can't say I'd like to do it again. These days I like the assurance of knowing I'm going to get paid.