Indie Author Spotlight: Jami Fairleigh

Oil and Dust, Graphite and Turbulence, Charcoal and Smoke (Fantasy, Kitsune Publishing, LLC.)

In a word, curiosity. I wanted to see if I could do it on my own. The decision to indie publish my books was like opening a door into an unknown world. It gave me the chance to immerse myself in the lifecycle of a book.

For Oil and Dust, I worked with three separate editors and a proofreader. From there, I dove into the complicated world of book production. This included cover art, copywriting, interior design, and typesetting. Then there were decisions like trim size. The grade, color and weight of paper. Which distribution networks to use? What pricing is appropriate? There are so many moving pieces! The journey to craft, produce, and publish a book is complex. It takes work, but is rewarding, too.  

I researched the steps needed along both paths before making my decision. The traditional publishing path didn’t fit for my Elemental Artist series. The series is a genre mash-up that doesn’t fit in a single category. These books are part fantasy, part science fiction. The series tells a coming-of-age story but for an adult protagonist. They are about community, connection, and found family. I like to describe them as post-apocalyptic fantasy but with cozy vibes. From the start, I believed it would take four books to tell Matthew Sugiyama’s story, and knew pitching them to agents would be tricky.

As much as I’ve enjoyed the creative freedom of indie publishing, I don’t think it’s the right (or only) path for all books. For example, I have a middle-grade fantasy novel that I’m interested in querying. I could publish it, but I think the story would do well within the traditional publishing world.

Order Jami Fairleigh's Oil and Dust today.

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I love the unlimited options. A typical Gemini, my interests span multiple genres and narrative styles. For me, the unparalleled creative freedom it offers is not just appealing—it’s transformative. I can experiment with unconventional story structures while blending genres. It allows me to explore my curiosity without constraint. Best yet, the creative freedom afforded an indie author continues after publication. The prospects of my father translating my books into Japanese, or working with my cousin who illustrates graphic novels, are both possible since I hold the rights to my work. This empowers me. The future of my stories is in my hands, and I can wander with them in any direction I choose.

Again, the unlimited options. Once you have a story ready to share with the world, the sheer number of possibilities for an indie author is staggering. Like many writers, I have a full-time day job, so going the indie route hasn’t been easy. Schedule, budget, author brand, book formats, sales platforms, reader expectations and engagement; you’re managing it all.

You are the writer. But you are also the publisher, marketer, promoter, web developer, accountant, agent, and project manager. That’s a lot of hats for one head to wear.

Order Graphite and Turbulence by Jami Fairleigh today.

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In hindsight, I wish I’d known the importance of building relationships with authors who had already been through the publishing journey before I started my own. Building a network first would have helped me avoid problems and craft a better launch. My oversight wasn’t because I wanted to go it alone, but because it didn’t occur to me that the community of authors would be so supportive! This includes both traditional and indie-published writers; I’ve found writers following either path to be encouraging, helpful, and empathetic people.

Join a writing community. Find writers who support and encourage you. I’m a craft junkie and soak up writing advice from podcasts, books, articles, and courses. But I’ve found these resources are more meaningful to me when I discuss them with the other writers in my community. This year, I joined the Tenacious Writing program, which has provided me with a bonanza of craft resources, coaching, and community. Even if you think you’re too early in a project for feedback, engaging with other writers can help keep you motivated and working toward your goals.

Book production. OK, I know this answer is a bit of a cheat, but frankly, if you’re going to spend the time and money to publish your story, it’s not worth it to skimp on anything related to the creation of your book. Your book is an asset, so work with a professional cover designer. Invest in your editors. Use a proofreader. Buy your own ISBNs. Register your books with your copyright office.

JamiFairleigh.com
Twitter.com/jamifairleigh