This is a tough post for me to write. I am always positive and push through any obstacles that come my way -2023/2024 has been an emotional and financial disaster for me (and many other Indie Authors - though we only hear from the ones that are thriving).
Let's change that.
Let's bring to light those that are having difficulties and struggling.
I have a day job - but the pay is nowhere what I need being a single-income household in AZ. I do not want roommates (too many AZ horror stories) and I never want to ever be in another relationship.
I had thought about adding PA openings to my book services since I have been around doing this for over 14 years. But, to make what I need, even charging the high rate of $200/month which I see so many listings at, I'd need 40 authors to sign with me.
We all know that isn't happening.
My rent is over 35% of my income. I was supposed to have my next promotion in 8 months, it was 16 and nada -so I switched orgs with my company. I am looking at July(ish) of next year before they can promote me and am told it's only an increase of $5K a year.
WHAT???
That's $416 a month before taxes.
It will not even make a dent in the amount of income I need to make.
I thought hiring a company to do the cover reveal would get some pre-orders in for my book release. The cover reveal had 40 on the list -- 14 actually posted. In 9 days after -- ZERO pre-orders. And I am out money that I did not have to spare....even if I broke even, I could live with it.
I've paid for 3 more...so we will see what happens.
Many of us are out here struggling and have the goal of doing what we love - being a full-time author.
I will be hitting the big 50 next year and am nowhere near where I thought I would be at that age.
I want to buy a house. I want to do something I love. I don't want to have to decide which bills I can pay and which will have to stack up month after month until there is a disconnect threat.
Social media has become almost impossible to navigate. One day you have 1600+ connections on X (Twitter) and the next day you are down to 1500. TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, etc --seem to be shadow-banning indie authors....or at least those of us who are trying to make our name and get out there.
Suggestions? Is anyone getting tried and true results? Does anyone want to form a team of us that promote and share one another?
I know times are hard for so many of us -- remember sharing is FREE.
I will be putting together an India Author Book Expo for 2024 -please feel free to reach out for details.
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