Wow. Three months ago, I completed the process of going the self published route for my story, Zero Point. It was a daunting task. A lot of work and expense went into getting it on Lulu. Well, three months later, I've retired the book from Lulu. Why, you ask? The reason was two-fold.

First. In August, I discovered, much to my delight, an adventure writers competition sponsored by the Clive Cussler Collectors Society. Finally! A place where I can share my action adventure story with like minded folks, and even have a chance of winning out of twenty five fellow competitors. Unfortunately, the rules say you can't have your book  in print; even print on demand like Lulu. I recently discovered that Kindle publication is okay, so I may re-establish my Kindle book.  For me though, it's not about any prize, but rather a rare chance for my three years of endeavor to be critiqued by a panel of astute judges. That alone  for me is worth removing it from print. Who knows, maybe Zero Point will gain some attention?

Second. And speaking of attention, my second reason for retiring Zero Point from Lulu. Without a lot of time and money to do a proper book campaign, I fear it will go unnoticed. That is one plus side of traditional publishing houses. They can promote the book, thus protecting their investment in the author's work. To this point, many friends have purchased Zero Point, and I am extremely grateful, but I need to switch gears and try a new route to reach a greater audience.

Now that Zero Point is no longer listed with Lulu, the ISBN is no longer valid. So to my friends who have a copy, it's a first, and very limited edition. I plan on, depending on the outcome of the writers competition, purchasing my own ISBN for publishing and also try again submitting my work to some publishers.

We'll see where it goes…

Newport, Me.