To query, or not to query...

In September, I reactivated our internet, and began to research agencies and the publishing process.  After sending out about ten query letters, and speaking with a few agencies, here is what I learned...

1. Typically an agency edits your book at no charge, and then sells it to a publisher, retaining about 15% of that sale price for their services.
2. First time authors, like myself, receive only a few thousand dollars for their first novel.  (This means that you DO NOT make a % of any future sales.)
3. Self-publishing is the way it is done these days, for many reasons, and I can understand why.
4. It only costs a little more to self publish, than what a publisher will buy your book for.  My theory:  If you expect someone else to believe and invest in your book, and you can afford it, then keep your rights and royalties...you earned them...invest in yourself.
5. You will average around a dollar per book (ebook or paperback).

I decided to choose Abbott Press, who is associated with Writer's Digest, to publish my novel.  It is about a 14 week process, which I just began.

Follow my blog, which is sure to be filled with my ups and downs, through this exciting journey.  I am happy to share my experience with other new authors, and receive advice from accomplished one's, too!

Please join me!