Who Can I Turn To

The publishing world is fraught with pitfalls and scams that can ensnare even the most diligent authors. Over the years, I have stumbled and been deceived multiple times, learning valuable lessons through each experience. Self-proclaimed experts lie in wait, claiming to have the solutions to your sales issues or to handle the intricate technical aspects of getting your work published. These individuals often present themselves as saviors, ready to guide you through the murky waters of publishing. I once had someone create a promotional video for my book at no cost, which seemed like a generous offer at the time. However, the reality is that nothing truly comes without a cost, whether it be financial or emotional. Drawn in by the allure of the freebie, you're often persuaded to spend money on services that usually turn out to be a waste of both your time and resources, leaving you feeling more disillusioned than before.

In the UK alone, there are now over two million aspiring writers, each with dreams of sharing their stories and insights with the world. It’s no surprise that most of these hopeful authors choose to self-publish on platforms like Amazon rather than endure the lengthy and often disheartening process of waiting for rejection letters from literary agents. The traditional route has become increasingly daunting, filled with uncertainty and the harsh reality of a highly competitive market. Self-publishing offers a sense of control and immediacy that many find appealing, yet it also comes with its own set of challenges that can be overwhelming.

No matter where you choose to publish your work, selling your book still requires a significant investment in advertising on social media and other pricier platforms. This is a relentless race that feels unwinnable for many authors, who find themselves struggling to gain visibility in a saturated market. At this point, you are faced with a choice: either give up and return to hobbies that once brought you joy, like train spotting, or dive into brainstorming solutions that might help elevate your book’s presence. The latter can be a daunting task, filled with uncertainty and the potential for further disappointment if the wrong choices are made.

The solution lies in sifting through countless advertisements for publishing aids, hoping to stumble upon a service that is genuinely beneficial. This often feels like searching for a needle in a haystack, but with perseverance, you might discover a service recommended by someone who found it effective at little or no cost. Such lucky breaks can feel like a beacon of hope in an otherwise murky landscape.

That's how I was fortunate to find https://shepherd.com/. This is an amazing organization created by readers for readers, providing a permanent platform dedicated to showcasing your books. The cost? As low as £20 a year, which is a small price to pay for the potential exposure and support you can gain. This platform not only offers visibility but also fosters a community of readers who are eager to discover new works and support authors.

Managed by Ben Fox and a small team of dedicated experts, they have developed a unique method for showcasing an author's work to thousands of eager readers. Their approach is innovative, focusing on building connections between authors and their audience. Currently, they boast over 850 founding members and are more than halfway to reaching 1,500 members, a milestone that will significantly enhance their reach and ability to connect authors with new readers. This growth is not just about numbers; it represents a thriving community that values quality literature and the hard work of authors.

Check out this group. You won't be disappointed. Each book featured on the site is recommended by a writer, ensuring that the selections are made with genuine insight and appreciation for the craft. Moreover, most include a review by a writer who has their book featured on the platform, providing potential readers with a personal perspective that can be invaluable in making reading choices. This community-driven approach not only enriches the experience for readers but also empowers authors, giving them a much-needed platform in an increasingly challenging publishing environment.

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Check out my latest post on Shepherd showing three books I read in 2024 along with reveiws plus my latest book and a short piece on who I am.

https://shepherd.com/best-books/banking-scams-planned-through-political-corruption