Our IWSG question for August 6th is: What is the most unethical practice in the publishing industry?
Boy, do I have some opinions on this one! I was first published in NY waaay back in the late ‘80’s when authors were working out of their homes totally isolated from each other. There were no chat groups, no industry magazines, no Internet! I’d never met another writer! Many agents (not all!), if you could get one, were found in an outdated hardcover compilation in the public library and were more interested in catering to the publisher than fighting for their own author’s interests. At that time, the majority of newbie authors felt as though they were working for the agent instead of the other way around, that if you didn’t tow the line, the agent would fire YOU! I know I did.
Then came my first national romance writer convention where I met walking, talking, writing folk just like me!! Did they ever set me straight! I had the chance to talk to my heroes in the industry, authors I’d read and adored (and they’d actually read MY books!), forging connections that still stand strong. I found a new agent to partner with and went home with the card of an editor who would buy dozens of my Dana Ransom/Rosalyn West historical romances. And for the first time, I felt like I was in control of my career.
And when I conferenced in New York, I got to meet my historical editor, who took me to their downtown office where I got to see my next cover being developed and met the cover model who was working on my next book. What a Cinderella moment. In my opinion, that’s what all we authors should experience.
Allowing ourselves as the creative force behind the industry to think we’re second-class citizens is a grievous wrong to our psyche and our bank accounts. Something that social media and assessable in-person gatherings are still working to overcome. The ability to self-publish was a huge milestone for many of us, giving writers an opportunity to bring their dreams to a fully realized life on their own. I like keeping a foot in both worlds.
As our industry continues to evolve and change, it’s up to us to inform ourselves so we can ride out those sometimes unwelcome surprises and take advantage of new and exciting prospects. And as always, Writer Beware. If it sounds too good to be true or too easy to believe . . . do your homework!
Until next month . . . Write On!
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. The awesome co-hosts for the August 6th posting of the IWSG are Ronel Janse van Vuuren, Natalie Aguirre, Sarah - The Faux Fountain Pen, and Olga Godim!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
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