So I’m still in the process of editing my first novel, albeit a tad distracted, and I’m still looking at my next big project. After planning through about ten different stories I’ve finally been able to pull the best bits from each one to get onto what should be a master piece that may even put my first novel to shame. But I’m not here to talk about that just yet, but you can be sure that I will get my hype on soon.
Today I want to talk about doing it different. Everyday is different and everyday we find a new way of doing things. Some of us are stuck in the past and believe that books should be published through a traditional publishing house while others see the modern way of self publishing. I’ve always been caught between these two things, but like I said every day is different, so I shouldn't be too scared to look even further and look to the future instead.
I’ve recently been looking at a website called getinkspired.com It is based around the idea of fans being involved in the development process of a story as it is written. Unfortunately the website only skims the surface of the possibilities that this kind of platform can give to readers and writers but I have no idea how far it will actually go. However it presents itself as one part of a larger plan to build up an audience around my creative mind and all the stories that reside there. So my next story is going to be published, chapter by chapter, out there in the public domain as it is written and developed.
This finally gives you the chance to see my work and make your own mind up about it. As I don’t intend to publish traditionally, revoke my rights of ownership or make any money off it directly, there is no need to keep quiet about what it actually is. I find the idea of engaging directly with an audience exciting as it is the real reason why we write. Unfortunately novels take up a lot of time and writing free stories while keeping food on the table is difficult, so there is an endgame to make money but not in the traditional sense.
At first this will just be a bit of fun and a chance to finally admit to friends and family that I write fiction, vlog and make silly things under the pseudonym: WillJ. But I will invite and encourage all to come and look and if they like it to hang around. If it is a success then I will merchandise, and by that I mean sell you T-shirts and bookmarks, not sell out to Warner Brothers. The end plan is to combine all that (the reader-writer involvement, merchandise, development and communication) and to Launch a Kick Starter to get all my stories out there for people to read.
I just have to go away and finish planning this new story while it is still Sunday. Busy at work next week and on Wednesday I find out if I still have a job. But by the end of the week, whether I’m relieved or pissed off, I’ll still be getting my hype on for my new story where all will be revealed.
