Indie Author Goes Traditional with Jen Craven

Modern Publishing | Writing & Publishing Industry Trailblazers

Independent and traditional publication each have pros and cons. How do you know which is right for you?
In this episode of Modern Publishing, my guest is Jen Craven, author of emotional and suspenseful women's fiction. Jen recently signed a two-book deal, after publishing previous books independently. Jen shares her journey and offers advice for those who are deciding between self-publishing and traditional publishing. We explore the changing publishing models and important considerations for authors deciding between self-publishing and publishing traditionally.
Topics Discussed

• Indie publishing vs. traditional publishing
• Changing perception of self-publishing
• When to fight for creative control
• What is upmarket fiction?
• Writing for book clubs
• AI in the publishing industry

Guest
Jen Craven is the author of emotional and suspenseful women's fiction, stories where one decision changes everything. A former college instructor, she loves dark campus novels, which led to her contemporary debut, “Best Years of Your Life.” Her writing style blends poignancy with drama to create what-would-you-do narratives of the human experience. In March 2023, she signed a 2-book deal with Bookouture, scheduled for publication in fall 2023 and spring 2024. Aside from fiction, Jen has personal essay bylines in national outlets, including The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Today’s Parent, Scary Mommy and many more. She writes from northwestern Pennsylvania, where she lives with her husband and three children. When not working on her books, she can be found thrift shopping, taking long walks, and beating her kids in backgammon.
Jen's Website | Facebook | TikTok | Instagram
Resources

• The New Author's Handbook
• Blue Pen Blog: Writing & Publishing
• Blue Pen Writers' Conference

Connect With Us

• Modern Publishing on YouTube
• Blue Pen, Editing & Book Design
• Victoria's Website
• Social Media
  • Twitter @victoria_grif7 @bluepenbooks
  • YouTube @victoriagriffinfiction
  • Instagram @bluepenbooks
  • Facebook @victoriagriffinfiction @bluepenbooks

Capitoli

1. Interview with Jen Craven: Indie to Traditional Publishing (00:00:00)

2. Reflection on Self-Publishing Journey (00:03:05)

3. Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing (00:06:20)

4. Indie Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing (00:08:25)

5. Changing Perception of Self-Publishing (00:12:18)

6. Benefits of Self-Publishing: Control of Your Creative Process (00:14:01)

7. Editing Process for Indie and Traditional Books (00:15:55)

8. Giving Up Control in the Publishing Industry (00:17:53)

9. Writing Upmarket Fiction (00:19:59)

10. Writing Career and Book Clubs (00:28:05)

11. Writing Process and Goals (00:30:08)

12. Trends in Writing and AI Technology (00:35:40)

13. Adapting to Change (00:39:57)

14. Stepping Outside of Comfort Zones (00:44:27)

15. Writing Memoirs and Developing Thick Skin (00:46:25)

16. Building a Supportive Writing Community (00:48:13)