Hello readers! I’m so excited to announce that I’ll be hosting a crowdfunding preorder campaign for some hardcovers! That’s right. You can now preorder hardcover editions of my current books. I wanted to share a blog post that covers the basics so you can be ready and support if you’re interested.
What Is a Crowdfunding Campaign?
A crowdfunding campaign or preorder is essentially a platform where I can pitch a new product (e.g. hardcover books) and my community can financially support me through the process. Up until this point, I’ve fully funded all my books. And as you’ll see, I’m raising $3k for this process—it’s not cheap. But by asking my community for support, I create this product and reward them with the first copies of this edition.
I’m using Indiegogo as my platform. I will set up tiers so you can ask for specific books and know what you’re getting. I’ve noticed that supporters are more likely to use this or other platforms as a trusted third party for such endeavors. I won’t say no to funds outside of Indiegogo but this is a great way to see my progress and get updates.
Note: if I don’t reach 100% of my goal, I’m still paying my editors and illustrators. Reaching the goal just means that I don’t have to pay out of pocket for these services. If you preorder copies, you’ll still get them—don’t worry.
What Can I Get In This Preorder?
The book preorder primarily covers the production of hardcover editions of my books. You’ll be able to order one of everything or specific series depending on your preferences. All three books will get updated book formatting (including cool designs for the first page of each chapter) and new covers. The stories will be the same but the hardcovers will be their own level of gorgeous! I’ll be adding some goodies like ebook copies in case you’re new to the books and want to start reading a lot sooner.
I’m already working with Bluelyboo and Enchanted Ink Publishing to create some beautiful hardcovers. Check out their work to get an idea of what we’re cooking up!
I also plan on throwing in some surprises in the packages as a thank you. I’d love to hear what you think or what you’d like to see.
What Does the Funds Cover?
This campaign covers layout, formatting, three new covers, printing, shipping, and handling. If I reach 100% of the goal, it means that I’ll completely cover the costs of producing hardcover editions. I’ll only “profit” if we go over 100%. Here’s a little pie chart to illustrate where the money is going:
Why Host a Campaign?
Authors—whether they are traditionally published or indie—are hosting preorder campaigns. Y’all remember Brandon Sanderson’s campaign, right?
We’re hosting campaigns because as you can see above, it costs quite a bit for this project. The campaign helps me fund my projects the way small businesses fund their new products. You are investing in my work so I can keep writing and publishing my books.
This campaign will also show me what my audience wants from me. If this campaign is successful, then I’ll know that I ought to create hardcover editions of all future books. If there’s not that much interest, then maybe it’s worth focusing on something like audiobooks or just new books in general.
I Can’t Support During September 2023. Can I Get My Copy Later?
Of course! Later this year, you’ll be able to find hardcover editions via the W&T shop. I’m still researching what my books will look like when ordered through Amazon; at this time, I don’t think they provide dust jackets. So if you for sure want a dust jacket version, then order your copy through our store.
Can I Preorder Elsewhere?
Indiegogo will be the main platform to place your preorder. If you want to preorder directly through me, that also works. You can email us at witandtravesty@gmail.com or DM me on social media!
Where Can I Buy My Copies Later?
You’ll be able to find hardcovers on the W&T shop, Amazon, and local bookstores by the end of 2023. If you prefer signed editions, I recommend shopping through local bookstores or the W&T shop.
I’m Not Interested in Hardcovers. How Else Can I Support?
I totally get it! This campaign is to find people who like to buy hardcover editions of books, and I understand that not everyone fits that category. You can still support me by sharing this campaign with people who enjoy fantasy books. The Destiny Seeker duology is for teens and The Throwaway Queen is for adults. Sharing the Indigogo link or our website link is a very helpful way to spread the word and help me connect with readers. I really appreciate any support, so know that sharing IS caring and it does more than you think.
How Will You Keep Us Updated?
Anyone who participates in the campaign will get email updates through Indiegogo and our newsletter. I don’t want to spam y’all with too much but it’ll be updates on the campaign’s progress, help me design the covers, and be the first to know when I’ve signed, packaged, and mailed off the preorders.
Of course, I practically live on Instagram, so you’ll see some updates there but the algorithms be algorithming. I’m so excited to share cover drafts with y’all!
Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Right now, I have no idea how things will go—could be great or could be a flop. All I know is that I’m doing my best and I trust that things will go the way they’re supposed to go. Any encouragement and good vibes are appreciated. And questions—please ask your questions.
Let’s do this!