Decisions decisions...

I didn't get quite as much self-editing done last week as I hoped I would, but I did have some great conversations with a couple Literary Agents from two different publishing houses.  One of them especially has impressed me with their quick responses, emails and sending information through the mail.  They were very helpful in providing information about how the publishing process works with them.  I don't want to jump into a contract, though, without much prayer and research.  They did tell me, though, that they are looking forward to receiving my manuscript. We also seem to be on the same page in our beliefs and mission.  If I decide to send my manuscript to them,  I will be on pins and needles, waiting to see if they will accept my work and publish my book.

I was told, that if they do decide to publish my book, the process takes about 10 months before it is ready for sale.  So, patience my friends, this is not an overnight deal.  There is also the possibility that my book is not a good fit for their company.  In that case, I would go to a new publishing company and start over.  I hope you will stick with me through all the ups and downs.  I will need the support, especially if my book is rejected.  That would be a real let down, but I have high hopes and feel confident that my story deserves to be read.

When my book is accepted, these are the steps to being published (at least according to these two companies I talked with):

1.  I will be given my own Publication Specialist who will work with me throughout the process.

2.  My manuscript will undergo a thorough scrutinization by a Professional Editor and we will work together to fix any errors I missed.

3.  A "Typeset Artist" will make my manuscript fit all the guidelines to put my manuscript into book form...style, line spacing, page breaks...etc.

4.  Cover Design---I am excited about this part.  One of the publishers, does not use generic templates, but they have their own artist who will work with me on designing my own cover.  That is very exciting to me, because I already have ideas for my cover and I would love to see what their artist could do with them.

5.  ISBN/Barcode---they will acquire these for me, so that my book can be sold at retailers.

6.  My book will then be printed and copies sent to their retail partners around the world.  I will also be sent some of the copies for my own use.  

7.  My book will then be converted to Digital e-book formats compatible for use on Apple devices, Amazon Kindles and Barnes & Noble Nooks.

8.  I will maintain complete ownership and rights over my book.  They will even file a copyright application for me.

9.  They will then give me a Publicity Team, who will work to Publicize and Market my book.

This all sounds so good to me, that I am skeptical.  So, as much as I want to say, 'Yes! Let's do it!', I want to be wise and make sure I choose the right group.  These two groups are Christian Publishing groups, so I am hopeful that they will do what they promise. Please pray for me as I seek God's Will in this.  He knows exactly what I should do.  Pray that He leads me down the right path, in Jesus' Name and for His Glory.

In Christ,

Sandy Kay Slawson