Athena Dean Holtz is publisher of Redemption Press and an author advocate.
Please give us a snapshot of the class you’re teaching at Write-to-Publish, “Independent Publishing Bootcamp.”
We will be covering all the areas you’ll want to consider as you determine whether indie publishing is a good option for your project. We will look at the different approaches and models available under the independent-publishing banner, along with the upside and downside of each.
I will present each aspect of indie publishing, from developing a compelling manuscript, a cover that looks traditionally published, a layout that is aesthetically pleasing, and all the additional pieces that go into a professionally produced product, including an ebook and audiobook to complement the print edition.
I’ll also compare and contrast distribution options and the limitations that accompany publishing through Amazon’s KDP that are important to be aware of and share marketing and promotion realities. Plus I’ll set aside time for each conferee to develop their own plan based on their gifts and talents and the genre and audience.
With all the changes over the last two years and the supply-chain shortages and distribution difficulties, it’s important to know how you, as the author, should approach the unpredictability of due dates for printed books.
Tell us a bit about Redemption Press.
Redemption Press is a Christian owned and operated hybrid publisher known for producing award-winning, quality books in all genres. We take the best of indie publishing and the best of traditional publishing and marry them together to create a model that provides author control with professional team support and guidance. Founded in 2014 to address a need for integrity and excellence in publishing, I pioneered the independent-publishing movement in the Christian market in the early 90s and bring my 36 years of experience to the table. My team helps you develop quality work with the perspective of becoming a servant to those you’re called by Him to pour into with the written word.
How can writers get the most out a writers conference?
Be teachable, humble, pray for divine appointments, and be open to where God might be leading you.
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Interviewed by Susan Miura, speaker, freelance editor, and author of four award-winning novels and a children’s book.
