One Of The Great Things About Being Published

Aside from having your very own editor to help you through, most publishers deal in submitting your manuscript for use in film.

Of course I had to write up my own movie treatment, but nonetheless, it's exciting. And of course in having a publisher, they help with the marketing and do all the rudimentary ordeals such as cover art, helping with your title because they want the book to make money. And that's okay. You're not selling out by allowing them to do that--change the title that is. If you love your story, you want the story to get out there. And what's wrong with making some money while you're at it?

I was attached to my title, but eventually I got over it and am happy with the title my editor and their marketing division chose. They have my best interest at heart, and of course they have their best interest at heart. Publishers want to make money.

So...If you want to make your living as a writer, then jump through the hoops your editor and their marketing department offers to you. If you're lucky and your story takes off and you become a celebrated author, or at the very least a modest one, you can then have a say with the next novel.

Don't let anyone tell you that you're selling out by bending over backwards for your editor. If you want to be a writer, then do what needs to be done. It's not fair for anyone to tell you that you're forgoing your integrity by changing anything. First time authors needs to get their foot in the door, and as long as they're not changing your story completely (most publishers/editors won't even do such a thing), then what's the big deal?

Me? I love my story to death, and I've got the sequel in the works. But I want to make money being an author, so therefore whatever my editor asks of me, I'll do. You should, too.

If you're lucky enough to receive a contract from an author, be careful...if you complain too much or are difficult, arguing with your editor over things they may want to change, you could get dropped. No editor/publisher wants to work with a difficult writer.