Hello, I hope you’re well! I wanted to give an update on the whole moving-to-Spain situation, but these things take time (it seems) so there isn’t much to update, except perhaps to rather proudly announce that I’ve reached the gold league in my Spanish lessons on Duolingo. For those that don’t know, Duolingo is an app that tricks gullible people into learning a language by getting them to compete in imaginary leagues with computer generated fake people. But still, gold league…
Anyway, what I really wanted to do, is give an update on writing.
Those of you who follow my writing closely (and you never know, there might be someone) will know my last published book was called The Cove (it’s out now on Amazon), and that I’ve been writing a sequel to this called The Pool (available for pre-order now, but maybe keep reading this before you smash that buy button). I did manage to write about 60,000 words of The Pool, before the whole moving-to-Spain idea kicked in, and distracted me. I’m rather easily distracted it seems.
But then, when I got my focus back, my daughter mentioned something over her breakfast cereal which got me very excited, so I downed tools on The Pool, and began working on a brand-new novel. And last week I finished it (or the first draft at least). And… it’s good. Or at least, I think it’s good.
It’s a bit different* from what I’ve written before, in that it’s a ghost story, or it might be a ghost story. It’s about a ten-year-old boy, Gale, who ‘sees’ his sister even though she was abducted and murdered two years previously. Her killer was never caught, and his relationship with her ‘ghost’ becomes so strong, that the two of them decide they’ve going to work together to catch whoever it was.
The idea is that the reader is never quite sure whether the ghost of Gale’s sister is real, or if everything is a figment of his imagination. I’ve tried to tell the story in such a way that both scenarios stay possible and plausible throughout. It’s also a mystery thriller, in that you need to keep reading to find out who the killer is (and there’s a good twist), but then on top of this, there’s what I hope is a very poignant element – the sadness the boy feels about his lost sister, his joy at having her back, and the growing awareness that if ‘they’ are successful in the quest, it will mean she is finally able to slip away for ever.
I’ve always found when I’ve written a book, that I can’t tell if it’s any good or not, but with this one I do feel it’s quite powerful (I confess to being in floods of tears writing the ending – but that might just mean I’m very wet). But anyway, I liked it enough as I was writing, that I toyed with the idea of trying to publish it in a different way. When I got started as a writer I didn’t bother trying to get an agent and a publisher in the traditional route, but I always thought I might try at some point – and I considered if this is the one I should give it a go with.
But then I heard about the success of Brandon Sanderson on Kickstarter. If you’re not aware, he’s a well-known fantasy author who used the fundraising website Kickstarter to announce that he had written four surprise books, and which has since raised over $38,000,000 (yes, thirty-eight million dollars) selling them direct through that site. Yes, it will probably lead to every author everywhere rushing to Kickstarter, and I’ve missed the boat, but it made me realise that there are a number of other possibilities to consider when publishing a new book these days, and that maybe I should consider shaking things up a bit.
So I thought I’d ask you. This isn’t going to be definitive, and I still have to dive back into the writing for the second draft before I do anything, but I thought I could let you know about the book, and ask how you’d prefer to see it published, in one handy email. Should I publish the book on Amazon? Or try something else? And if so, which route would you prefer? I’ve given three options below as links, and I’ve be super grateful if you could click the one you’d like to see.
- Seek an agent and try to publish the book with a traditional publisher
- Run a Kickstarter campaign
- Publish the book direct to Amazon (the same as my other books)
Thank you! My tech-savvy doesn’t run to embedding a poll into an email, so these links all end up on my website, and from if you wanted to add a comment, then please do – I’d be really interested to hear your thoughts.
Actually, on that subject I feel I have an apology to give. Most of the time when I’ve sent out emails like this, I’ve done my best to reply to everyone that took the time to write back. But for the last few emails I haven’t, and I’ve been feeling a bit guilty about it. I promise this isn’t because I don’t care anymore, but simply because it’s got a bit overwhelming (and maybe a bit because I’ve become obsessed with Duolingo – but that’s in a good cause!)
Anyway, I hope you’re coping well with the madness of planet Earth today, and I’ll write soon (I hope) with an update on project move-to-Spain. Oh – and I promise I will return to The Pool too and get that done, so feel free to smash that button now!
*Albeit yes, I do see the similarities with a certain other ten year old boy! Maybe a bit of my brain never quite grew up…
I would suggest contacting other authors who have used Kickstart for their books. The responsibility of everything can be overwhelming, ever for individuals who regular publish “special/high end” editions of well known books.
The levels beyond e-book, paperback, hardback or combinations of them can be challenging.
I love the convenience of the Amazon universe, and I like the price point you are usually at, to be brutally honest. If I had to pay 10 dollars or more, I would probably opt for something else.
I clicked kickstarter by mistake so please deduct one from those votes. I looked at buying an e-book on kickstarter and it seems too complicated so I suspect you will lose a lot from that method
No matter how you decide to publish I’ll always be a faithful reader. I’ve enjoyed your books from day 1 and continue to wait patiently for your next great read. Thanks for the entertainment!!!
I voted for an agent and publisher. As I read your other comments I get how easy it is to read a book on Amazon, but aren’t pretty much all books available on Amazon and can’t you opt to have your book available as a Kindle, too? I have many books that are available on Kindle but also I have the hard copy at home that I bought either on Amazon or a bookstore. If your book is as exciting and awesome as you hope it is, wouldn’t it be better to have an agent and publisher be able to promote it in all the ways that get you the most publicity? I love watching television shows in the US that feature books – ones I might not have heard of if I’m just perusing the bookshelves and that hasn’t been featured somewhere. I’m thinking it would bring you more money and while that may not be your ultimate goal (I have no way of knowing how much you have made on your books the way you have been promoting them) it sure make life easier. But then again, how much does an agent and publisher take from your cut?
No matter what way you choose, I’m looking forward to reading this book! Good luck!
Gregg I love your book and would probably buy them whichever way you decide to go but as a lot of people have said I too have a kindle and it’s the easiest way to fulfil my love of reading. Good luck with the move and I can’t wait for your next book.
I think you should try Kickstarter just to see what happens. I assume you can always go back to publishing the way you normally do. But what if by trying Kickstarter it brings in far more than you expected and allows you more freedom to think and write more books while knowing you don’t have to worry about finances for a while.
I really hope that you keep publishing to Amazon, although I hate the beast! I can read late into the night on my kindle, without disturbing the other half with my light. Trouble is how often to I then get stuck on a good bit and it’s 2 in the morning!
Good luck which ever way you decide to go. Good luck with the move, you will miss Hengistbury Head, I still do.
Ok I thought I was tech savvy but I only know how to get a book onto my kindle through Amazon. I wouldn’t know what to do with kick starter. I really love my paper white kindle since I can load books to take with me and I can read with no lights on if I wake up and can’t get back to sleep. It’s been very nice of you to keep us posted on your move and soon to be completed books.
I voted for Amazon because your books are automatically uploaded to my Kindle the day they are published. That said, you should do what’s best for you! You’re the one doing the work. And thank you for your work.
I agree with the comments above…live my kindle paperwhite. I will, however, order your books in whatever form you publish. Hopefully, they will continue to be available on Kindle.
You should do what you think is best for you. It’s your work and your product.
As a reader and frequent recommender of your work, I vote for the publishing method I already know, Amazon. The world is already too option-laden and I would find it difficult to keep track of whether I’m recommending Rockpools on Amazon, or Pools on somewhere else.
I feel that you should stick with what you know works.
You have a lot going on in your life at the moment to add extra stresses.
But the choice is yours.
Good luck with whatever you decide to do
Many thanks for the pleasure that your books have given to your readers
I have never heard of Kickstarter so I can’t comment on that and I’m a traditional Amazon kindle user for general ease. I voted for publisher though as it just sounds more romantic, like you’ve really made it but maybe that’s because it reminds me of tangible books and not sterile like Amazon with a kindle.
The new book sounds fabulous!
I love your books Gregg, and have read them all so far. I will continue to find them no matter how they are published. The ghost one sounds great!! (I would love to be your beta reader again)!!
I do read via Kindle though, so hope your books will remain available via Kindle.
I confess to choosing the Amazon option as I am simply too lazy to want to change how I get books. That said, however you choose to publish I will purchase as I annoy your books tremendously.
I also would like you to make the most money, but at the same time I have a Kindle and so Amazon is very easy for me. But I will figure out how to get it no matter which route you choose. I’m excited for you!
I chose this in the hope it would make you the most $, but I will support whatever you decide is best for you, because I truly appreciate your writing.
I voted for Amazon simply because I basically only read on my Kindle. I’d generally rather you support a smaller publisher (and who isn’t smaller than Amazon), but I find it very hard to read anything not Kindle-formatted now, and I want to read this!
I think you are in the mood for changing things up a bit in your life so why stop there! I read on the Kindle App but I can send it to the App by printing it and choosing that as my device ( come on people get with it!). Amazon is a good platform so I suppose you could do that too.
I love your writing! Cant wait for the next book. You have such a loyal following because of you emails so there is value in that. Followers will follow! Keep pushing those boundaries.
Sorry I meant to say that you could publish your books in pdf format which can be sent to kindles…
Oh it was hard to choose an option here! If you publish on Amazon I would of course buy it! 😃 I do have a close personal friend that recently completed a successful Kickstarter for $10k (US dollars) to record a solo record album. If you did the Kickstarter I would also contribute and buy the book. My least favorite option was the agent. Because all of the money should go to you and not an agent. I understand they could help in launching and all of that jazz and they have value. But when you have already done well publishing on your own, the agent almost feels like a step backwards in some way. Whatever you choose to do, I am VERY excited to read this new book! It sounds fantastic! 🤗
Tnx for your email. Really enjoy how you are moving along as a novelist.
I voted for Amazon because I read most everything on my Kindle Fire.
However, bottom line is you must decide on just how profitable you want your books to be.
Regards,
Connie Martin Carter
Florida
I hope you choose Amazon as I see so many others feel the same way as we use Amazon for our Kindles. And want to continue to read your books. I am a follower of your books and always look forward to your next. Perhaps Kickstarter is good for an unknown writer but you have a following of avid readers.
Goid luck in whatever you choose but hoping it’s Amazon!
Hi Gregg,
I’ve enjoyed your emails almost as much as your books. Thanks for an intimate, pleasant look in the life of a rider and your decision process. I hope your health has improved.
best,
Lionel
I’m just completely amazed your daughter came up with the idea for this book lol!
You are well known enough so you could go any route really. Good luck and thank you for this book in advance (it sounds fascinating).
Hi Gregg,
I’m now super excited for both books! I guess I chose this route as it means I can keep all your books together on my Kindle. I would also be more than happy to take part with Kickstarter campaign as I love your writing so much and just want to get stuck in to the next book.
Hope your move goes as smoothly as possible.
Debi x
I ticked the Amazon route because this way your books are delivered straight to my Kindle, which is easier now my eyesight is not what it once was!
Also I don’t have to wait for the post!
By the way, I find your emails just as interesting to read as your books!
Keep ‘em coming please.
I also don’t know about publishing and prefer Amazon Kindle. I don’t know if I am able to receive Kindle books from any other source? Having read all you other books, I am waiting for the latest one…
I picked the Amazon route for entirely selfish reasons, I’m afraid, as I only read on Kindle these days ( arthritic thumbs and the luxury of sitting in bed with a cup of tea on a wild ‘n’ wet early morning and buying the new Gregg Dunnett to read instantly!! ) .
On the one hand I want to say, do whatever brings you most dosh for your hard work…on the other hand I want to say…. downloads to Kindle from sites other than Amazon are usually laborious and often don’t work. I’m sure this is just a fraction of your market though so may not be as important to you as it is to me.
Whatever you choose I wish you great success.
Can’t wait to read the ghosty book!
Dittos to your post! I agree. I chose Amazon for my own selfish reasons, but like you I wish Gregg well and suggest he do what works best for him and his family.
La vida es demasiado corta.
HI Gregg,why change something that work well,it reaches all the readers that follow you,plus its there for future readers to see,so stick with amazon
Gregg, if you do decide to go a different route other than Amazon, I would have happy to go with your choice as I’m not really qualified to say or know how the other routes would work for the reader or for you the writer. As long as I get my book downloaded on my Kindle I’d be happy.
I don’t think the Kickstarter-thing kan be easily copied. Also, he offers hardbacks and swagboxes, and that would be a lot of bother, if you don’t end up with 40 million dollars. I voted for the usual Amazon-solution, but I think you should pursue finding an agent (or just skip the agent, you don’t need one with your catalog). Just send a selection of editors The Glass Tower and the new one. That is – if it’s right for YOU to publish that way. I don’t necessarily think it would be.
I’d give anything a go if it gets your name and books out there. I’m a definite kindle reader,so easy and portable. Think giving people the chance to read advance/free copies an idea too as they would tell others I know I have done this .
I would give Kickstarter or another like it a go. What’s to lose? And it would possibly introduce you and your books to a wider audience. Whichever way you choose to go, you can still sell your book via the Amazon route once its published.
Love reading your books and good luck with the move.
I would prefer Amazon purely because I go on their site regularly so are much more likely to see any books that you have just written. I have never heard of Kickstarter so would be unlikely to pick up any information about your book. Increasingly because of problems with arthritis in my hands I am using my Kindle to read books rather than buying paperbacks. Good luck with whatever you chose.
It would be tremendously satisfying to have a book accepted by a publisher and if I were you I think I should give it a go. I do read your books on kindle but I also like to read a hardback or paperback from time to time.
I’ve opted for the “publish on Amazon” option, but purely for selfish reasons, I am a self confessed Amazon addict so this would be where I’d go to purchase the book. However, I do also think that you should explore other options, getting an agent and publisher would be an amazing achievement, one I think you most definitely deserve, and that I would give my left arm to achieve myself (and that’s my writing hand so says a lot) so definitely look into that route, just be sure your publisher sells (or trades) through Amazon too for the Amazon addicts like me.
I’m not at all aware of kickstarter or it ways of promoting such things, but with a potential windfall like the example you gave, it would be stupid not to consider that option, so, all in all, I’ve been little to no help, but if official votes count, the Amazon is my choice, but only because this new book plot sounds amazing and I can’t wait to read it – looking forward to finding out the title of it
I love my Kindle and always download books here now as most of my reading is done on the move. Saying that I always feel excited about Kiickstarter projects. It’s a gamble really but personally I have ‘invested’ in some really good ideas and projects that I believe in.
If it’s Kickstarter, are the rewards enough for you and the readers? Can you still add to Amazon Kindle?
Good luck with it all.
Elaine
I’ve nothing to say that’s worth hearing about the best way to publish, ‘cos I know nothing at all about it! But I do know I read almost exclusively on my Kindle – so much so that I still haven’t opened the three beautiful physical books my lovely family gave me for Christmas.
So as long as it ends up on my Kindle, I wish you the best with whatever you choose. (And with Spain!)
To be accepted by a publisher would be very satisfying and would establish you as one of the UK’s successful authors an accolade you richly deserve. Good luck with this and hope the move to Spain goes well
Dr Gordon F N Smith
I voted for Amazon because I do most of my reading via kindle, as I guess most of your fans do.
However, there might be a whole new group of readers out there for you to reach if you try another method of publishing?
I’ve loved your books since the beginning – keep up the good work!
Good luck in your new ventures.
I do like to read books on my kindle and I have all yours on mine but I don’t know anything about kickstarter so I think you should go with which you think will be the most profitable. Can’t wait to read this new book tho 😊 Good luck with your move to Spain.
I’d like to see you go the traditional route because I think it would be good for you – your ego – to be accepted by a publisher. If your ego is sufficiently strong that you don’t need such a boost, then I’d rather you continue with Amazon.
At 80 I’m too old to try new things unless I have to. Amazon and Kindle please.
I’m being selfish here but I also only do kindle and I really want to read this book. I’m very intrigued by the storyline. However you decide though, I think I’ll manage to get my hands on a copy.
I would only read your book on my kindle as I’m too lazy to read any other way. When I still lived in the UK I used the library a lot but, for some strange reason, all the books here seem to be in French:-( I nearly told you about the dramas involved in our move to France but didn’t want to risk putting you off moving!! I’m in the diamond league of duolingo at the moment so I may see you there (Sharlie who looks a lot like Sophia Loren)
I do think you will make the right decision yourself in the end. I like the ease of using a kindle its better for our plant. I find I read a better range books, even at 69 and have found some hidden gems. Good luck.
I only read books on my kindle so it’s easier for me via Amazon but you must do whichever is most profitable for you and what you feel comfortable in doing.
Good luck in your move to Spain.
I have all your books on my kindle but please do whichever is more profitable for you. A friend of my has gone down the agent route and is out a couple of times a month promoting his books. Perhaps not easy now you are in Spain.
Good luck and please keep the books coming in any form.
I voted for Amazon as I have Kindle Unlimited, so works best for me from a personal perspective. But I’d say go for kickstarter if it will be better for you financially. I look forward to reading it anyway. Well done on Duolingo!
I would not only read your book(s) on kindle but kindle does make reading your (and other authors) books considerably easier. Traditional books are getting increasingly headache causing due to my impaired sight…..the increasing pile of unread Stephen King books are a testament to this. And using any devices other than my old faithful Paperwhite hold their own issues
But as someone who has been travelling the path behind you since Hanging Rock, and was one of those who followed you suggestion of reading Jonno’s journey around the UK on his board, which ever method you go for as they say, where there’s a will……..I’ll be reading your twisty, turning, keep ’em guessing offerings.
If it ain’t broke….. can’t wait for the new books!!!
I read all books on my Kindle but go with whatever suits you best. You are a wonderful author – I love your books and I love you emails too! Good luck with the move to Spain 🇪🇸
I’ve gone for the Amazon option because this is where I get most of my reading material these days…so it’s from a purely selfish point I’m afraid! Most of my reading is done on my kindle also so I’d like that to continue. Sorry but I’ve realised that this has become what’s best for me…!
I’ll continue to read your stories whatever you decide though.
Why not try Kickstarter?
You’re already doing Amazon, traditional publishing means you still have to market aggressively, but Kickstarter will be a new learning curve and Hey! You might get a big part of the next $38 million readers are willing to put down.
I get quite a lot of author emails. The one of yours which corresponds to this blog post is in the top 5, actually #1, of the best author emails I’ve read. (But to be honest, most times I just read the Subject line and hit delete.) After actually reading every word of your email, I came here to read your blog posts – and buy a book. (Of course, I may already have one of yours. I’m kinda a hoarder of e-books. I have over 15,000 Kindle ones plus other Book Funnel, Nook and Apple books.)
Much success on your move to Spain, writing, and book sales.
Also, a loud whoo hoo on reaching gold status in your language studies!
I don’t believe in crowd-funding, so stick with other, well-established self-publishing options like Amazon.
I would choose Amazon, partly for selfish reasons. I live in Brazil and it would be easier to buy as I do most of my reading on a Kindle. I think Amazon gives far greater exposure globally for an author. I don´t know how much you earn from them compared to a traditional route though. Good luck whatever you decide.
I reckon trying the kickstarter option might be a fun experiment. However, if you make 38 million, you *are not* allowed to stop writing! I hit the preorder button for The Pool and found I’d already ordered it … right after finishing The Cove some months back. Get to that keyboard! I’m really looking forward to it. 😉
I would go for the traditional publisher. If it is picked up you will get a whole team of people marketing it for you and if it’s a success they might well pick up your back catalogue as well. It also opens routes to TV/film rights and world wide translation rights. If it isn’t picked up by a publisher then you haven’t lost anything and can go down your usual route of Amazon.
I disagree, traditional publishers only care about celebrities now. They don’t market books from “normal” authors, leaving the promotion to the authors and then taking a big cut of the profits.
Gregg – stick with Amazon where you are in full control of the process and also get your full royalties. Traditional publishing is a dead sector in my view.
I also use Amazon more because if I go other routes I find sometimes I buy a book twice. Whoops. Amazon is easy to return get refund if you accidentally click. But I know sometimes they don’t pay the authors fairly. Kickstart sounds like a good option if you follow through. I’m too ADD for some things like that.
Amazon, as it is the easiest way for me to purchase books. However, if you can make more $$ another way, go for it – preferably also available through Amazon.
Yo prefieron en Amazon, porque en otra parte lo más probable es que ni cuenta me dé cuando se publique
Wow, I voted for Amazon but you’ll be honest, you would have to weigh out which way would be more profitable to you. I will purchase your books no matter where they come from! I look very forward to reading everything you write.
My vote was based on extreme selfishness. But it seems to me that you could use both amazon and kickstart. That idea appeals to me to the extent that I have brought it to the attention of my daughter, a conventionally published author. Her response was instant – worth a try! I know she would not object to making a big income herself.
Hi Greg! You have SOOOOO much going on in your life! It’s amazing you could be so moved at this time to write the new book! I’m looking forward to reading it! At 62, I’m always skeptical about the “I hit the jackpot this way” stories. How many authors do you see out there doing better than they did with the other two options? I am a fan, I do order ebooks off Amazon, but would order this new book however you choose. All that to say I think One of the more traditional methods may be better in your current life situation. I use Book Bub and that is where I first saw you, I would never have found you otherwise……
I don’t know what Kickstarter is, but have gone with that as I think you have to go with whatever is financially best for you Greg. However, if you feel more comfortable doing something else, then go with that. You have to do what is best for you, though it’s very kind of you to consider your public.
Good luck whatever you decide.
I think basically the 3 choices sound like good, better, best, never let it rest until your good is better and your better is best. For me the good would be the traditional route. The better would be the Amazon route. The best would be down the road when you can take a leap of faith and make your own rules as you do when you write your books.
I only read books on my kindle so it’s easier for me via Amazon but you must do whichever is most profitable for you and what you feel comfortable in doing.
Good luck in your move to Spain.
I suppose I’m a bit selfish and even lazy, but since I have a Kindle Fire, it’s so nice to buy your books and in seconds have it available to read, hence my vote for traditional Amazon publishing.
Of course, why not take a chance and try your other options? I’ll find some way to purchase your books.
I’m glad to hear “The Pool” involves a 10 year old. You have a special affinity for these young characters.
I had a read on Google about launching a book Kickstarter campaign and there seemed to be quite a few caveats and some potentially major financial pitfalls. As you and your family get settled into a new life in Spain maybe now is not the time to begin experimenting with different ways of publishing your work and as some others have commented already, Amazon is a known quantity plus many of your readers use Kindle. Ultimately, the decision lies with you of course and thank you for giving your readership the chance to say how they feel about the options!
I tend to read most books on kindle and find amazon easier to navigate, but ultimately what works best for you go for that. Looking forward to reading the new book it sounds like a really good read.
I read my books on kindle so whatever medium means they end up on there! The new book sounds brilliant, can’t wait to read it.
Ultimately you must consider which method serves you best, but I have to say that Amazon (with all it’s faults) is a very user- friendly reader interface. I have come to use it now for the great majority of my reading material, being a dedicated e-book reader. Good luck whichever you proceed with – and with Duolingo!
I read on a Kindle so really want all your future novels available on the Kindle. Hope this helps.
I thought an agent would be a good idea, otherwise stay with Amazon. Loved The. cove, waiting for The Pool. New book sounds brilliant.
I hit the agent option by mistake as I am well aware that getting a publisher interested is difficult and you are going to lose money to them for a difficult to quantify gain.
I have noticed just a few authors who have gone down the kickstarter route but they do not mention how successful it has been, other than it reached their basic requirement.
The indie route, albeit increasingly popular, does keep the ball in your court, as long as you can put up with Amazon’s conditions.
Yes, I perhaps should have stressed a bit more that I can’t necessarily go down the trad publishing route, but only try to do so. Thanks for the comment!