Thanks for the response, it was really insightful. I have another question: One of the big problems of releasing something on your own is lack of editorial feedback. Is there anyway short of signing up with a publisher, or having some very indulgent and somewhat masochistic friends, to get serious editorial feedback cheaply?

John M.

Dear John M,

We're not sure what you mean by "cheaply," so here are several options:

The selfpublishing site lulu.com we mentioned in the prior response provides an editorial menu. Considering the amount of work it takes to edit a manuscript, the rates are pretty damn cheap. Unfortunately, sometimes cheap is still expensive.

Another possibility is to shop around town. Posting an add on OlyBlog, or craig's list may turn up an editor. If you do get a chance to work with somebody local, we would recommend a mutual interview wherein you both could ask questions of each other and talk cost.

One other local possibility that may be cheaper than just about any other option, but is currently in the ultra-beta stage, is to workshop your stuff at a website for local writers that is currently being created. If stress testing a new service would appeal to you, feel free to e-mail us back so that we can send you a password.

- The Taelliouses

"You'd be surprised how much it costs to look this cheap."

Dolly Parton

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