My Publishing Model: High Discoverability, Enriched Reader Experience, Author-Centric Revenue
My three goals as I approach book selling and distribution as a self-published fantasy author.
The publishing industry is a maze of options: big presses, small presses, hybrid, self-publishing, and more. Thanks to my day job (operations manager for a professional association of publishers and authors), I know the industry well. As I have thought long and hard about how my writing can have the most impact, I have arrived at 3 goals:
Goal 1: Create as many ways as possible for people to find and consume my writing
Release the first half of my novel in serialized format (one chapter a week) on my website and various reader platforms (such as Kindle Vella and RoyalRoad.com)
At the same time, release these chapters as a "serialized audiobook" podcast, available across all podcast channels and YouTube
Run engaging presentations or author booths at book fairs, libraries, bookstores, colleges, high schools, and local events
Goal 2: Enrich the reader experience
Have custom music accompanying key moments of the audiobook, with a recognizable motif for each main character and theme
Create custom artwork for each chapter (made affordable by the advent of A.I.-generated art in the last two years)
Create accompanying materials for avid fans, such as battle diagrams, downloadable art and music, games, t-shirts, and stickers.
Goal 3: Create a sustainable revenue model for both authors and indie bookstores
Shift more revenue from middlemen distributors to the author by directly fulfilling as many book orders as possible (in-person or through my website)
Be less reliant on Amazon by having my books listed on multiple sites at comparable prices, including my own website
Support indie bookstores by hosting local events and ensuring they can get my book at a highly discounted rate