“Fallen Heroes“ is now on the shelves of several branches of Waterstones, including their flagship branch (where it was labeled a ‘cult hit’), which is regarded as the largest bookshop in Europe. I have, since then, done several book signings both in-store and at various conventions.

Thanks to the success of “Fallen Heroes” I now have an agent and an award winning TV and film production company has optioned the book itself. I am also working with a BBC journalist who will be adapting the story for a graphic novel to be published by Insomnia Publications.

None of this would have been possible without the easy to use and excellent print on demand infrastructure set up by Lulu. One example is the ease by which I was able to release a new edition of the book with a back cover Waterstones review and a front cover quote/recommendation from fantasy author, James Barclay.

Through self-publishing I have pushed myself to do things, in terms of self-promotion and marketing, I would never have done otherwise (signings are not my strong point!). I have learnt a lot about what it takes to not only get your work out there but what to do once it is. It’s been a journey of hard work, disappointment, lesson learning and huge moments of sheer joy.

The Advantages of Self-Publishing

• Your work will be published. As you are self-publishing your work, you know it will be in print and you can hold a copy in your hands.

• You keep all of your rights. Traditional publishers will almost always require that you give up the rights to your work if you sign a contract. In contrast, self-publishing almost always allows you to retain your rights.

• You control the production aspects of your book. You decide what your book will look like, how much it will cost, what formats it will be available in, and more.

• No  long-term contracts. Most self publishing options will not involve you signing any long-term contracts. As such, you have the option of taking your book or other material somewhere else. You can always decide to try traditional publishing if you aren’t happy with self-publishing or if your needs exceed what self-publishing can handle.

• Turn-around time. Typically the turn-around time for self-publishing is much shorter than traditional publishing. This can obviously vary, but with some options taking as little as a week (and in few cases even shorter!) the turn-around is often within a couple of weeks at the most.

• You get paid higher margins per book and you can often get paid more quickly.

• You can create a second edition of a book or correct errors much more easily.

The Disadvantages of Self-Publishing

• It is difficult to get shelf space in a brick-and-mortar store like Barnes & Noble if you self-publish.

• You have to handle all, or almost all, your own marketing.

• You pay any upfront costs. This could include copies of your book, editing, cover design or any number of other aspects.

• Some people still stigmatize self-publishers.

Is Self Publishing For Me?
We recommend you look over the materials we have provided, evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of self publishing, and make your own informed decision. Self-publishing isn’t the right option for everyone, so think about what you’re trying to accomplish and decide whether self-publishing fits those needs.

• Open to independent authors and publishers worldwide
• Cash prizes and fabulous awards!
• Click here for more information and to enter
• Deadline: March 21, 2008 (you need to hurry and publish your book if you already haven’t!)

The “IPPY” Awards (Independent Publisher Book Awards)

• All independent, university, small press, and self-publishers who produce books intended for the North American market are eligible to enter titles copyrighted or released in 2007. Independent authors using print-on-demand publishing services are welcome to enter their books themselves.
• Regional and National level awards in 65 different categories
• Click here for the scoop and how to enter
• Deadline: April 1, 2008 (a few more weeks… but still you might want to get a move on it)

16th Annual Writer’s Digest International Self-Published Book Awards

• Searching for the best self-published books form the past few years
• Over $15,000 in prizes
• Click here for the details and how to enter
• Deadline: May 1, 2008 (you have a month and some change to get your book together).

So don’t hide your light (or in this case, your book) under a bushel. Enter and see what happens. We’re rooting for you here at Lulu!