Book Publishing Secrets with Thriller Author Darden North

Genre: Fiction/Thriller
Publisher: WordCrafts Press
Thank you for your time in answering our questions about getting published.  Let’s begin by having you explain to us why you decided to become an author and pen this book?
     I enjoy putting pen to paper (or fingertips to keyboard) and with this novel began to explore the five ways to die.
Is this your first book? 
     No, “The Five Manners of Death” is my fifth novel.
With this particular book, how did you publish – traditional, small press, Indie, etc. – and why did you choose this method?
     Small Press. “The Five Manners of Death” was accepted by WordCrafts Press, a small press that offered publication in both hardcover print and trade paperback as well as online digital. When my query was accepted, I quickly recognized that editor Mike Parker saw the potential of this unique story and possessed publication vision and experience.
Can you tell us a little about your publishing journey?  The pros and cons?
     My first three novels were self-published and successful in their own right in that about 17,000 copies collectively were sold. I then wanted a partner in this journey and reopened the process of querying agents and publishers.  My fourth novel, “Wiggle Room,” was published by Sartoris Literary Group.
What lessons do you feel you learned about your particular publishing journey and about the publishing industry as a whole?
     No matter how large or small the publisher—whether traditional, indie, small press, or the self-publishing route—every author must bravely market themselves and their own work. There is no place for ignorance in learning the value of social media, and there is plenty of room for humility.
Would you recommend this method of publishing to other authors?
     As long as the author is willing to engage with readers and book promoters and sellers, both online and face-to-face—including bricks and mortar bookstores—there is room for success for any author in any genre.
What’s the best advice you can give to aspiring authors?
     Expectations low … Serenity high.




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