I called my agent yesterday about Despite Them. As I feared, the editor of Pocket Books didn't want to pursue the book with a contract. Here's what she said about my manuscript.
It was an intriguing story and she liked Gregor's character a lot, but she did not like the Scottish dialect used when he spoke. Then she went on, after she had already said she liked the story, that the writing didn't impress her the way she thought it would.
And it took her 5 months to tell me this bad news.
So here's my dilemma; do I change the dialect to be all English so these young folks who think they know what the public wants can understand what they're reading? Or do I keep it and try every editor in NYC until one says yes? You do understand that this could take years, if it ever happens.
I have had more compliments on the fact that I DO use the Scottish brogue because it makes the conversation feel more authentic. Never have I been told that it was impossible to read because of it.
Here's another option, one I've been trying out in my head since it came out.
Put my book on Kindle.
I know, I know, I've been talking about the piracy end of it, but I've been doing a little more research and found that unless you're a hacker and really have it out for me, there are some safety measures in place so once a book is downloaded to your Kindle or PC, Mac, IPhone, IPad or any other device, it can't be resent to someone else's device. This fact made my heart warm with joy!
I also found out that along with putting my book on Kindle, I can also get an actual book printed as print on demand, like I'm already doing with my old publisher.
I think this may be the best of all worlds. No agents taking 15%. No publishers telling me what and how to write and giving me 8% of all my hard work. The royalties on Kindle are up to 70%. I'm trying to find the bad in it, but not coming up with any faults.
What do you think? I want some feedback on this. Do I continue down the traditional path, or break out into the new world of ebooks? Let me know.
5 comments:
I hate that editor doesn't like the dialect. What's wrong with them? It serves a purpose to put the reader right into the story. I love it! It gives the book it's color and flavor. I wonder how many editors told that to Diana Gabaldon?? Sheesh! I would say go for it on Kindle. Break out into the new world! Since you researched it and it seems to be ok, JUST DO IT!!
I agree with Cat, I love the dialect! I read extensively and I love, love, love your books as do the rest of my family! Don't change your style! It's perfect for the story lines. I for one would buy them for my Kindle - such a convenience with instant gratification! When I want to read a book I hate waiting for it to arrive! LOL Go for the Kindle!
Your books without the dialect just wouldn't be the same Mary! I wouldn't change a thing! It's a shame the editors passed your book by. I would go with putting them on Kindle. I would make your books more accessible to those who REALLY know a good book when they read it. Whether I by Despite Them for my Kindle or as a bound book, I am looking forward to finally reading it! Good luck!
Thanks everyone! It seems we are all in agreement on going with Kindle. I've got my work cut out for me now and will keep you updated on how the process is going. But first I have to update some software to comply with their formatting. I'm really looking forward to this new adventure!
Stay true to yourself and your books. Don't change them because someone with no emotional attachment to them tells you to.
And go for it on the kindle! I think it's a great idea!
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