I recently read an article based on a survey about what separates successful writers (in monetary terms) from others. The answer was a professional cover, an editor and paid marketing services. This applied to traditionally published, Indie and hybrid authors. It makes sense. If you jump through all the hoops to produce a quality book, success will follow.

I’ve avoided this subject but I’m going to speak up because a) I’m tired of the Indie meme that is so prevalent in reviews and b) because I agree with what’s being said. That meme is typos and lack of editing.

The result is Indie has developed a reputation for poor quality. In many cases, it’s deserved. Unfortunately, good Indie books are also tarnished by this bad rep. I read an Indie title this year which I literally couldn't put down and not because my e-reader was covered with glue.

The meme has spawned because traditionally published books are generally free from errors and usually edited by professionals. Indies lack those resources, but is that an excuse? I’m not saying my books are perfect (no book is perfect), but I do make as much effort as possible to ensure they have been edited and proof read.

Here’s my beef on the subject. I hear other Indies claim they don’t need an editor or a proof reader. They say a few errors don’t matter. I agree, a few don’t matter. Trad pub books usually have a few too, but never many.

I’ve read many excellent Indie books which are let down by errors on almost every page. Here’s the thing: the rules of grammar and punctuation exist to help the reader. Good grammar puts words in a logical order, supporting the flow of ideas. Punctuation is a set of visual clues that helps a reader interpret writing. Caring about these details shows you care about the reader. The reading experience is what a book is about.

There’s a vast community of Indie writers out there. Many are willing to swap time to help one another to produce professional books. For the love of the art and respect for the reader, why aren’t we working together to smash the meme and enjoy greater success? Feel free to comment.