Among many ongoing debates about the health of and prospects for the book business, few arouse the passions of authors (or divide them) more than perceptions of their prospects for success in today’s marketplace.
Most recently we’ve seen moves in the industry toward “subscription models,” where, for a modest monthly fee, readers can subscribe to buy or borrow a large number of books. Pioneered by companies such as Oyster and Scribd, and recently joined by Amazon with their “Kindle Unlimited” program, subscription services have thrown the industry into turmoil. Some established, strong-selling authors report declining income, because high-volume readers are switching to monthly ebook subscriptions, which compensate writers much less per “borrow” than do outright sales of a given book. Others, however, report that subscription services are expanding their base of readers and, on balance, increasing their income.
So which is it? Are writers in the best of times, or the worst of times?
Well, it depends — says my talented author friend Allan Leverone in this fine, brief overview of the book marketplace. It’s filled with sound perspective and wisdom for writers and prospective authors.
Loyal readers of this blog may recall my interview with Allan, whose wide-ranging thrillers have attracted an enthusiastic following. Allan also served as one of my technical advisers (he’s a veteran air traffic controller) for BAD DEEDS.
Check out his article, his interview, and then his books. (My favorites are his Tracie Tanner thrillers.) I guarantee that you will be glad you did!
Photo (c) by Debbie Scott
