Dear Former Authors of Strange Chemistry,
Many of you would not have heard of me, but my name is Marc Aplin and I run a website named Fantasy-Faction. Fantasy-Faction is a website developed to promote the fantasy genre, its books and its authors. Our community website has grown over the years and we find ourselves in a position where we are receiving around 3000-4000 hits a day from fantasy fans from around the world. Our biggest honour was winning a Reddit Award for best Fantasy website.
As you know, a few days ago something happened that affected you and affected our community, especially our younger readers, greatly: Angry Robot was forced to shut down their Strange Chemistry label. This has resulted in many of you being thrust into the unfortunate position where you are out of contract. I know that a number of you were mid-way through series and were likely excited at the prospect of getting your next title out to the masses.
Firstly, I want to say that the thoughts of myself and our whole community are with you. This is a horrible situation and whilst I am sure many of you will find your place under other labels in the near future, I’m sure that doesn’t comfort you much as it stands.
Secondly, I have seen a number of readers urge you authors to self publish. For those stuck mid-series and who may struggle to pick up a new publisher, I think this could be a viable idea. Especially with the way the publishing industry is heading. Today, many self-published authors have found their place and some of the ‘big names’ in the fantasy genre are even choosing this route over traditional publishing for certain projects. You also have the advantage that you already have readers who know your name and have enjoyed your earlier titles. Certainly, to leave fans – and yourself – without a conclusion to a series is something that I am sure will disappoint you both.
I can’t help you with getting the book written, edited or produced (sorry!), but I do feel that I can help with what is often seen as one of the more difficult aspects of self-publishing: marketing. I know how hard it can be, letting people know your next title is coming; especially when it is a year or two since the last.
So, I know it is a rather small gesture and unlikely to fix all your problems, but for any Strange Chemistry authors writing fantasy who do choose to go the self-published or small press route I’d like to offer Fantasy-Faction to you whenever you need to promote yourself and your work. Just e-mail me any time: Marc@Fantasy-Faction.com . Whether this is to set up Guest Blogs, Reviews, Interviews, announce your latest book is underway – or whatever else you need – I and the community are at your disposal.
In the meantime, my advice would be keep Tweeting, keep blogging and letting your fans know that you are still there, writing. Your fans in the SFF community are eagerly awaiting your next title.
Best Wishes,
Marc Aplin
