Interview by Jamal Jones – Owner of Quick Website Services

How did you launch your self-publishing book career?
You have to build the foundation first. Arm yourself with information via books and the internet. Read and speak to others that have already been down that road. Most of all become an avid note-taker for free information on Google and Youtube.

How many books have you released and what are their titles?
I have successfully published three books (A trilogy) and my Autobiography is coming next. My three complete books are Separating Realities, The Reality of it All, and Keeping It Real at All Cost. The three novels are ongoing drama love stories.

What made you choose to self-publish instead of going with an established publishing house?
I mentioned earlier about reading and research aka the homework. That research showed me that publishing houses can select your book, give you an advance upfront, and your work can take 3-5 years to make it to print. Also, when the publishing houses eventually release your book you will be receiving an 80/20 split, with 20% going to you, the writer. The large difference in the percentages is because the advance has to be paid back. You also have to give them free rein to re-edit, add, and subtract from your original manuscript. With self-publishing, you can find a great on-demand publisher and maintain 100% control of your money and your manuscript.

How do you go about gaining readers for your books?
I started building my followers through family and friends. I use social media as well, mainly Facebook and Instagram.

What has been one of your main challenges as an author/publisher and how did you overcome that challenge?
I needed to have a website to have a presence on the web and in order to be taken seriously. I also still struggle with marketing and getting the word out beyond what I see and have knowledge of. I was referred to Quick Website Services, had a consultation, and my professional website was born. Now I ask questions of my web designer to get assistance.

Do you have any advice for people interested in releasing their first book? 
Do your research on the companies you have an interest in working with, read reviews, and check them out on Better Business Bureaus for their rating and credentials. Most of all have fun and remember it takes time and dedication.

You can check out my website and purchase a book today… WWW.THEREALITIZE.COM