I'm guessing that would cover the 'copy editing' and a small print run if Stu s going to self-publish.

Ah I see. Its probably best not to think about publishing when you are trying to make a start, could put you off! lol

lol yeah the publishing fee's have meant the book has come to a complete stand still, sitting at little over 500 pages. I was rather tempted to get a bank loan and see how it goes, but it's a serious gamble and alot of money if it all goes tits up !!
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The publishing isn't the biggest problem either, 'cos the writers I've spoken to tell me that it's the distribution that is more difficult due to the way book stores buy, and unless you can get your book accepted in key stores then it can cost a fortune in advertising and travel to convince independent book stores to take them on, especially hard if you're a new author too.
It costs quite a lot to have a book 'copy edited' too and it needs to be done before you publish, so I can understand how the costs is escalating, but hope it doesn't put you off your writing.
What about writing short stories and sending them to magazines to see if they will take them as it will help you build up a name for yourself if they are popular and it's a good way to get yourself known.

i thought about short stories, but the trouble is, once i start i can't stop ! i literally just close my eyes and type. I could probably throw a few pages together, but how captivating it would be i don't know... maybe i'll have a go at a short one and post it up in here...
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It's worth a try.

i've finished my book !! it's not as long as it used to be as the hard drive on my pc failed and i only had a few pages of it actually written on paper, but i'm quite pleased with it. I have someone proof reading it for me at the moment too - she's not a professional editor, but the comments she's made so far have really helped me adjust it !
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Oh wow Stu! Well done!!! of course we'll all buy it to support you Have you decided on a publisher yet?

lol no, i thought the publisher chose you ! still got a long way to go with the saving up yet, although a few people have suggested getting one or two copies printed up myself by an online printing co and then send those to publishers !

i think i still have a fair amount of editing to do too, although it's finished - my idea of finished is the basic outline is now all in place, i'll beef it up in places by adding more detail and once my 'friend' has finished proof reading it i'm sure she'll have a few comments that might help out too !
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