Would it be helpful if I put together a ~5K word guide to everything I've learned about self-publishing a novel?

MAJ Allen Tiffany — Mon, 25 May 2015 09:23:59 -0400

I've recently published my first novel, which is getting strong reviews on Amazon from Veterans and others. It has been a heck of a learning experience, and there is a ton of great, free info out there, but it takes some work and experience to sort through it all. I'm happy to summarize what I have learned, and given my military background I could assemble it in a way that military personnel could easily use it. Before I take it on, though, want to make sure there is interest. Thoughts?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMRHjWCDBSw

Response by PO1 John Miller made May 25 at 2015 9:28 AM

PO1 John Miller — Mon, 25 May 2015 09:28:49 -0400

Go for it. I know a lot of veterans who want to write a book but are intimidated by the publishing process.

In fact I only know of one other person besides yourself who has self-published.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made May 25 at 2015 10:32 AM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Mon, 25 May 2015 10:32:59 -0400

I also have written a book, UNIFORMS, and self published it and my book is also doing well on Amazon and it is also featured on the Military and Police Writers websites. I would love to see what your guide consist of Major! Thank you! Dave

Response by MAJ Allen Tiffany made May 25 at 2015 12:00 PM

MAJ Allen Tiffany — Mon, 25 May 2015 12:00:34 -0400

OK. Thanks for the feedback, gentlemen. I've been thinking about doing this and have it sketched out, but need to give it more thought. It will be a 3 - 4 month project to do it well, so...standby. :) I'll advise when I have finished it.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made May 25 at 2015 12:01 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Mon, 25 May 2015 12:01:41 -0400

Yes, I'd be interested to read that.

Response by MAJ Allen Tiffany made May 25 at 2015 12:38 PM

MAJ Allen Tiffany — Mon, 25 May 2015 12:38:13 -0400

Speaking of learning how to selfpublish: One way to promote your book is via Goodreads book giveaway. Authors can use it to giveaway copies of their books and ask for readers to review it. Goodreads claims ~60% of people who receive such books write reviews. From my recent giveaway I'm yet to see a review. I don't begrudge Goodreads or the people who got my book. I think the reality is that because my novel is very narrowly focused on the Vietnam War, and because people who sign up for Goodreads giveaway don't pay close attention to what they are signing up for, they were not interested in my novel when it showed up in the mail. No hard feelings on my part. Just part of my learnings as I get smarter at all of this.

If there is anyone in this community that would like me to send them a paperback copy in exchange for an honest review, message me directly and I'll mail you a copy (CONUS only). I've got about 12 copies set aside for such purposes. Take a look at it on Amazon, and if you are game, shoot me a note. Thanks!

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V6WXVF2

Response by SFC Rollie Hubbard made May 25 at 2015 9:03 PM

SFC Rollie Hubbard — Mon, 25 May 2015 21:03:15 -0400

Sir I would more than happy to review you book I am a NAM vet if you would send it to me I will provide you a review.

Rollie Hubbard
224 Rock Crystal Lane
Lakeside Park, Ky 41017
SFC Retired

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made May 25 at 2015 9:35 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Mon, 25 May 2015 21:35:08 -0400

Major, we should exchange books? Let me know if you are interested? Thanks!

Response by MAJ Allen Tiffany made Jun 20 at 2015 11:37 AM

MAJ Allen Tiffany — Sat, 20 Jun 2015 11:37:38 -0400

Hey all, My book is free at Amazon today. When selling it, I'm going to give at least half of my (probably modest) proceeds to orgs that help our veterans. It is really meant as a tribute to the Vietnam Vets that trained me when I joined the Army in the early '80s. I've already gotten a few notes about the story from men who served in the 173rd there, and would be interested in hearing more from soldiers who were there. Thanks!

Response by PO1 Brian Schletty made Jul 9 at 2015 10:50 PM

PO1 Brian Schletty — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 22:50:06 -0400

Self-publishing for Dummies?! Shut up and take my money!

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Jul 12 at 2015 12:42 AM

Sgt Ken Prescott — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 00:42:09 -0400

Probably. Veterans have a lot of experiences that can be the jumping-off point for a novel. I've written one novel, and a guide would've been incredibly helpful.

Response by SSG Pete Fleming made May 23 at 2016 3:44 PM

SSG Pete Fleming — Mon, 23 May 2016 15:44:49 -0400

Are you familiar with Smashwords? A lot of people like them, they are free (only charge a small percentage per sale). Very user friendly.