Self Published Author Feature: Sheila Goss

Sheila is the Dallas best-selling author of Roses are Thorns, Violets are True and an e-book, Love UnExpected. She is self-published and her novels receive rave reviews from readers. Sheila has earned her best-selling status at several bookstores across the country. Her third novel, My Invisible Husband, will be released by 4AllSeasons Publishing in the Fall of 2004.

When did you decide to self-publish?

I went the traditional publishing route, but received several rejection letters. After encouragement from friends and colleagues I decided to try my hand at self-publishing. Fortunately for me, a few veterans took me under their wings.

Did any self-published authors offer any words of advice that you still use today?

Yes, Vincent Alexandria,author of Black Rain and Magdalene Breaux, author of The Family Curse, both gave me good advice. To paraphrase our conversations, the advice that stood out to me if you are going to self-publish, you should do it the right way. This advice has helped in the long run. Due to the professional appearance of both novels, most people don't realize I'm self-published until I tell them.

Why did you feel that you needed to self-publish?

It was something that I felt I needed to do. I took on the motto: If I don't believe in myself, than who will.

If you've noticed the trend in the publishing industry in regards mildest authors, do you think that self-publishing your books was a wiser decision than what many published authors face when trying to get their publisher to promote their book?

Under the circumstances I think it was wise. I have learned a lot about the publishing business and if or when I do get with a major publisher, I know how to market and promote my own books and can actually help others do the same. I'm not under the misconception that the publisher is responsible for promoting the book.

What was your biggest misconception about self-publishing?

I didn't realize it would take up a lot of my time. It can get time-consuming, so I advise anyone who is thinking about self-publishing to make sure you're dedicated to your craft and be prepared to handle the business side of self-publishing.

Do you use an independent editor?

Yes

Why?

This person can catch things that I can't. After you've gone over your story countless times, things look the same. It's always best to have an editor point out things you may have missed.

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