Canadian Talli Roland, now based in London, has sold a quarter of a million self-published women's fiction novels, but many of her readers do not realise her indie status, because she operates so professionally, offering a great role model for self-published authors everywhere. We're very pleased to welcome Talli to the blog today to share her top tips for successful self-publishing.
Canadian indie author Talli Roland, who now lives and works in England
What's the secret of your success?
Dedication, hard work and persistence, I’d say. I’d love to point to one specific tactic and say that’s why I’ve been able to sell so many books, but I don’t think it’s that simple. I’ve put in long hours blogging, tweeting, and Facebooking – after spending the necessary time writing – and I kept at it. I tried to create the most professional product I could, along with behaving professionally.
What's the single best thing you ever did?
Talli Roland's first self-published novel
My decision to self-publish was the single best thing I ever did. I was initially published by a small press. We had a very amicable relationship and I learned a lot, but I knew I’d be better off outsourcing the cover design and editing while retaining all the profits. From a business perspective it made absolute sense, but emotionally, it was a little difficult to let go of the security blanket of a publisher. I’m so pleased I did, though. My first self-published novel, Build A Man, was a bestseller in both the US and the UK.
Did you get lucky? What happened?
I think there’s always an element of luck, and in a way, I’m lucky I write in a genre (women’s fiction) that sells very well. To date, I have sold in excess of 250,000 copies of my self-published novels. Over Christmas 2012, I had two books in the top 100 of the UK Kindle chart, which was a very heady experience. I think having the right cover helps, along with the right pricing strategy. I kept the price low to compete with bigger publishers and to pull in new readers.
How do you get/stay in creative mode?
I don’t really think about it – I just sit down and do it! I think writing is 99 per cent hard work, one per cent inspiration.
How do you prioritise?
Talli Roland's latest novel
For me, writing always comes first. The best way to sell books is to keep putting more out there, so I always make sure to put in a few hours of writing each day. Depending on the time that’s left, I hit Facebook and Twitter.
What's next?
I’m hoping to write the third in the Build A Man series and to release it before Christmas.
What's your top tip for other indie authors?
Staying on top of promotion and social media is important, but make sure to keep writing. Remember, too, that the whole package is vital, including how you present yourself online. And have fun!
Thanks for sharing your story – this is some very encouraging advice! I was writing about self-publishing on my own page a little while ago (http://pilesofpages.com/2014/07/31/self-publishing-why-and-how/) and I think it’s getting more relevant than ever! It’s great that there’s so much information out there to help new authors.
Great advice. Balancing social media and writing can be so tough. You do it well.
Thank you, TC! I could do more on the social media front lately, but I’m trying desperately hard to keep up the writing.
You are such an inspiration,Talli. I admire your achievements, and am proud to be a beta reader. 🙂
Thank you so much, Glynis! I’m thrilled to have you and really appreciate all your support over the years,