Publishing, Here I Come!

Since this is my first ever post, I suppose I should introduce myself and my art: My name is Rachel Peters, and I’m a writer. Like writers often do, I’ve reached the point where it’s time to share my writing with the world. My entrance? Self-publishing.

No, I am not self-publishing because I tried and failed to be traditionally published (although in my opinion, there’s no harm in that because publishing is extremely difficult). I’m self-publishing because I have a very niche poetry project: I’ve created a collection about the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot. In a way, it’s like a tarot guidebook in verse. Publishing poetry is already difficult when it’s not niche, and most new age publishers don’t seem to be interested in poetry. Additionally, I don’t think my poetic style really fits either the mainstream or literary markets, so I figured I’d just cut to the chase and publish this book myself.

I’m very excited to say the least. This project took three years, and I never thought it would be possible to complete. This collection has been the most difficult writing task of my life, as I needed to write good poetry whilst accurately representing each card. Somehow, I did it.

As I’m sure most people planning to self-publish probably do, I’ve been scouring the internet for tips to make sure this book reaches the right audience (and an audience in general, to be frank). I’m terrified of failure. But, it’s gotten to the point a risk must be taken.

I believe in this book. I hope other people will, too, and they’ll find it’s worth reading.