Lots of people have asked me about my experience with Outskirts Press, the publisher of Those Made to Suffer.  So, let me give you all a brief rundown and answer the most frequently asked questions.  If you still have more questions, feel free to e-mail me.


After getting rejected by literary agents for four years after completing my novel, my father suggested self-publishing and sent me webpage links to five different self-publishing companies, including Outskirts Press.  After weighing the pros and cons of each company, I decided on Outskirts.  I logged-on to their website in late December '05 and followed the simple on-line instructions for starting the publishing process.  After sending my manuscript to them electronically (along with a refundable $35 payment), I waited to hear from them.  Less then a week later, I was contacted by my new Author's Rep who informed me my manuscript met their standards and they were ready to help me publish my book.  I choose a publishing package that suited my needs (especially my desire to design my own book jacket, including the photos) and the process began.  Within a month, the Author's Proofs were ready.  I had the option of having Outskirts professionally edit my book for a fee, but, since I'm not made of money, I opted to edit it myself.  Are there mistakes in the final copy of my book?  Yes.  Do I mind?  Not that much.  Even famous authors have grammatical errors or punctuation issues in their books (whether that's their fault or their publishers, I don't know).  After editing in late January '06, the book was officially published and ready for sale on March 7, 2006.  Four years of rejection letters suddenly became a mere 3-month-long process from start to finish with Outskirts Press.  I was extremely pleased with Outskirts Press.  My Author's Rep was extremely helpful and understanding.  A gentleman named Chris, who I believe is Outskirts' "Marketing Coach," was and has continued to be helpful with any questions or concerns I've had.


And now, some of the more frequently asked questions:


How much money did you end up spending to get your book published with Outskirts Press?


I spent roughly $1500.


Have you been able to sell your books in the quantity you were hoping for?
Have you made back the money that you invested in publishing costs from the sale of your books?
Do you feel that your book is getting enough exposure for people to know about it through the help of Outskirts?


These 3 questions can be answered with one phrase: That depends on you!  If you're made of money, you can work closely with Outskirts Press on marketing your book.  For additional charges, you can receive a marketing package to help with the launch of your book, have Outskirts advertise your book in literary magazines or book fairs around the world, and many other options.  Ultimately, however, the success of your book depends on you, not Outskirts Press.  Outskirts publishes your book, but you're the one who needs to sell it.  Unfortunately, I have neither the time nor the money to really go gung-ho with regards to the marketing of my book.  For my book, I created this website, got my book into Tattered Cover Bookstore (here in Denver), and had Outskirts Press advertise it in a literary magazine.  Other than that, word-of-mouth is my primary sales tactic.  Does that translate into explosive book sales?  No.  Have I made my $1500 back?  Nope.  But, that lies squarely on my shoulders.  My time and financial constraints prevent me from going from bookstores and libraries, advertising myself and my book.  However, as I finish up work on my second book, I can now tell literary agents I'm a published author.  That carries a lot more weight.  For me, Outskirts Press is a springboard to (hopefully) greater success.  Lackluster sales aside, I couldn't be happier with Outskirts Press.


How many books have you sold?


As of 5-28-08, 67 copies have sold.  Don't let that number discourage you.  Remember, that low amount is all on me.  More dedication, time, and money can help increase your sales.  Just bear in mind, self-publishing is all on your shoulders.  If you have the determination, you will sell more (perhaps I should listen to my own advice, eh?)


Again, if you have any other questions, please feel free to e-mail me.  I will do my best to reply promptly.


Interested in Outskirts Press?  Click here.