The Plight Continues...

Publishing is not for everyone...

That's right, I said it!

If you want to publish a book, be ready for an excessive amount of critique and criticism.

What's the difference?

1. Critique: to review or examine something critically.

2. Criticism: the expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived

faults or mistakes.

EVERY BOOK WILL BE HEAVILY CRITIQUED AND CRITICIZED.

It doesn't matter if you're a new or veteran author, someone out there will NOT like your book, and will make sure that other people know about it.

If your motivation is MONEY, I implore you to choose another career path.

Many people venture into self-publishing to avoid the critique of an editor. Can I just say that editors are vital to the publication process? Of course, you can edit the book yourself, but it is imperative to have a fresh pair of eyes to go over your work. True authors know that there are various stages in the editing process. Most new authors just opt for basic editing: checking for spelling and grammar. Not knowing, that's only the beginning.

Please note that editors WILL encourage you to make changes to your manuscript. This may include altering sentences and paragraphs, removing names of real people or companies, etc. If you're reading this and you're upset at the idea of someone "changing" your manuscript, then you're not ready to publish. An excellent editor will do everything to make your book the best it could be. I mean, isn't that what it's all about?

Don't hold your manuscript hostage and ignore every comment he/she makes.

The final draft of your book (with the right editor) will NOT resemble the first draft.

*Watch out for any editor who makes zero changes to your book. That individual does not care about you or your book's success!

~Theastarr Valerie