Writers clinic
Reader question: I am a Merseyside horror writer and have just completed my first book of short horror fiction. I am now faced with a dilemma, and that is whether to self-publish my book (as I have heard that it is hard to get short story collections published), or try a mainstream publisher. What should I do?
Gary and Caroline Smailes of literary consultancy BubbleCow offer the following advice:
It is very difficult for new writers to find a home for a short fiction.
The main problem is that short stories are difficult to sell at the best of times, but when a writer has no established fanbase/readership, it is that extra bit harder. Perhaps you could approach a couple of companies such as Salt Publishing and Roast Books to test the water.
The self-publish route is certainly an option, but you should be cautious before spending any money. A new writer faces the problem of having no established fan base. It is very easy for writers to get their books printed, but often they then have no plan of how they are going to sell and distribute the books.
Self-publishing needs to be approached as a business exercise, with a very close eye trained on costs. Writers need to identify their readership and create an effective marketing plan long before they print any books. I would also suggest that a writer adds cash into the budget for pre-production costs -editing, typesetting and cover design. The reality is that a poorly printed book will not sell, no matter how good the content.
