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Getting published can be an ordeal

T Ray Deal discovered that getting a book published is an ordeal and generally publishers reject a new author out of hand, because they rely on their own favorite agents. These agents, again, have nearly closed books.

After much futile persistence he put aside the adverse publicity about "Vanity Publishing", deciding that this term has been constructed to put people off the trend to self-publish for two reasons: Firstly, some would say, Old-fashioned publishers are worried about the new trend. Secondly, it is possible to get severely ripped off if you go with the wrong people.

The writer invested a large amount of time in research contacting people in the know, and eventually was given the name of a reputable Self-Publishing Company. The Company had a number of packages that were affordable, and offered constructive criticism during the publishing process.

The author offers the following advice for would-be self-publishers: "It is your `Work of Art` so be steadfast in your resolve to keep it the way that you want. Look for a good self-publishing company which will get your book out on the international market with distributors to places like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, plus put your `masterpiece` in e-Book form which will be picked up for sale by other outlets."

He says that it is essential that once your book is published you promote it, as it will not sell itself no matter how good you may think it is. You can gain confidence by organizing local promotions through bookstores. However, 30% or fewer books are now sold through direct outlets so there is a need to get a presence on the internet. Be careful!