I'm in the process of having my book published, and they are asking me to change A LOT. Would you listen to them?

It's just hard for me because I spent years with these characters how they are, and they are asking me to change BIG plot elements. I knew they would ask me to change or cut here and there, but not like this.

I am of course grateful to even have my book published by anyone, but you see my delima. Or maybe not. 😂

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Quizzical · 46-50, M

To be honest, publishers DO tend to know what is more saleable. After all, it's in their best interest financially that your book does well.

lauriethecolourful · F

@Quizzical I do agree with you. Of course they know what will sell, but I feel like the changes they are trying to make are very predictable.

Quizzical · 46-50, M

@lauriethecolourful I'm afraid that's the name of the game. They want something different enough to be 'new', but familiar enough so that people will want to buy it.

I don't envy you at all, I've dabbled in a little writing myself and it's not easy in the least.

lauriethecolourful · F

@Quizzical That's honestly a shame, though. But I do see that happening a lot. Mostly with movies but I see it bleeding through to books too.
The thing is, people already roll their eyes when they hear about the plot, and it's not until they start reading that they realise it's very different to books like it. I'm afraid making it safe and predictable will make the book lose it's spark.

Quizzical · 46-50, M

@lauriethecolourful Well, that's the choice really, artistic integrity, or money, lol

It's a rare day indeed when you can have both xx

lauriethecolourful · F

@Quizzical I agree. It's a shame, though. I understand that companies have to make their money back, though, and they are already taking a bit of a risk with publishing my book at all.

Quizzical · 46-50, M

@lauriethecolourful Have they paid you a retainer's fee?