Have you ever wondered what it’s like to transform your fanfic into a published book?
Better yet, have you ever wondered what it’s like to publish a book that sells?
If you write fanfic, I bet you thought about becoming a paid writer at least once. And if you’re still reading this, chances are the idea is gnawing thing that won’t let you go.
But how does one go about it?
Well, I’m glad you asked. Because I’m going to do it.
I’m going to write a fanfic for the explicit purpose of turning into a published book. Then go ahead and publish it, showing you all the steps I take along the way.
Why Am I Doing This?
For a lark.
Seriously, I’m doing it just because I’m curious. I have little intention and desire to become a full-time writer, as I’ve written elsewhere. Still, why bother? Two reasons:
- I’m involved in a project that intends to build a search engine for clinical research data. A Google for biomedical scientists, in other words. This is exciting work, promising novel challenges, new technology (neural networks! AI! Yippee!!!) and long hours. Which leads to:
- A draught in writing time. I’m not going to write while I’m working on this. So if I don’t do it now, I won’t. I don’t want to regret paths not taken.
I should mention right now: I have already done a lot of the preliminary work into what it takes to be an author in this day and age. I did it to test myself, to see if I have what it takes to be a paid writer. Conclusion: Nope. I don’t like this kind of misery. In fact, I hate it.
But that’s just me. I’ve exchanged emails with readers whose life aim is to be a writer, and I want to encourage them. If nothing else, this experiment will show them what NOT to do when they pursue their goal.
Which Fanfic Will I Publish?
I wrote a new one and will use it for this experiment. It’s set in the A Study In Magic universe, five years after the conclusion of ASIM:TA.
Liars For Magic: Commission
“LIARS FOR MAGIC” is shaping up to be a three-part mini-series. The plan is to post the first part in FFNET, keep it there until all three parts are ready for publication, and then take it down.
How You Can Help
Behind every author is a team of supporters, without whom which they will not be able to publish. These are some ways you can help me help you.
Spread the word. Do you know a fanfic writer who wants to be an author? Let them know about this experiment. I don’t mind looking like an idiot as long as they can learn something.
Leave an honest review. Authors need reader feedback to improve their craft, and readers need other reader’s feedback to tell if a new book is worth reading. Please review the fanfic. And when the book(s) are available in retailers, post a review there, too (hint: copy-paste will make it easy).
Be part of the launch team. Word of mouth is powerful. If you like what you read, share it with those who may enjoy it. Those who sign up to be an Advanced Reader will get to read the whole series for free before anyone else in exchange for feedback. (And you already know how important feedback is 😉 )
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