What Would You Do?

The other day I was scrolling through my Facebook feed when I came across an intriguing post in one of my reader's groups. The user said that she'd just finished reading two books by a new to her author. While she loved the books, she was disappointed with the number of typos in the book. The reader wanted to know if she should reach out to the author.

Before self-publishing became the norm, authors didn't have to worry about this. They signed a contract with a publisher and handed off their novel. The publishers had in-house proofreaders and editors who would catch any errors before the book went to print. It was rare that they missed something. When an error went to print, avid readers were filled with glee at knowing that our favorite authors were mistake making humans.

These days, most authors are independent authors. That means we're responsible for our own writing, editing, proof reading, formatting, cover design and marketing. That doesn't mean we have to do these things ourselves. We can most certainly contract the services out, but that costs money. New authors, and authors with smaller followers, can't always afford all of these services.

I'm lucky. I have a husband who's handy with Photoshop. I don't pay the cost of labor associated with cover design and promotional materials, however, I do have to pay for the photos we use. That's another expense, as is hosting my website and buying and renewing the domain name of my website.I also pay someone to format my e-books, pay someone else to proofread them and I pay someone to do online promotion.

I have nearly twenty titles out and I've only recently been able to afford a proofreader. My last two books were professionally proofread. When I was new to the game, I could not afford all of these expenses. I had to do it all. I did, and still do, my best to make sure my work was polished. Unfortunately, things get missed. No matter how good you are, your eyes sometimes see what your brain thinks should be there.

Writing is not my day job. Thanks to my most recent m/m series, I'm making more now than I have in years past, but I don't support myself with my writing. Even with my growing success, I still probably spend more on my writing than I make. As much as I'd like to, I can't afford an editor yet. I can't relieve my poor husband of his cover art duties. I have to rely on stock photos for my covers since they're more affordable.

Do writers make mistakes? Yes, we do. Do I want you to reach out to me if you find them? Yes, I do. I want to know what you found so I can fix it. My name is attached to that book, and I want it to be the best it can be. Readers' sharp eyes see things diligent writers miss. One thing though.

When you reach out to me to let me know what you found, please be kind. Keep in mind I'm not a full time writer. That I have high overhead and low profits. That I am doing my best and mistakes aren't intentional. That I want them fixed as much as you do. Most importantly, I appreciate your care and concern for my book and respect the courage it takes to tell someone a hard truth. I will appreciate your help and hope you will deliver your message gently.