How to publish historical fiction through Amazon KDP
A deep dive into historical fiction | Article 2 of 7
Are you an aspiring writer who has a concrete goal to (one day, eventually!) ‘get published’?
Do you have experience in the world of traditional publishing but have become jaded with the industry that appears to promise wealth and success - yet seemingly only for a tiny, tiny minority?
Perhaps, like me, you’re dipping your toe into the water of writing for a broader audience and are intrigued by the possibility of having your book out there on physical or virtual book shelves…
If you are any of these people - and even if you’re not - welcome here!
I’m Holly, if we haven’t met before, and I write about all things medieval history/archaeology and historical fiction. I am passionate about writing creative stories that engage a range of audiences in discussions of the past that overcome cultural stereotypes, which means that I seek out subjects and characters that aren’t what usually make it into the history books. If that sounds like you, do make sure to join our community of readers and writers, where we connect regularly over books, biographies, historical discussions, and Q&A/ask-me-anything chats.
During October and November, we are diving deep into the world of historical fiction.
Specifically, why we write/read it, how to get published in it, and what we think are the best examples out there, on and off Substack.
You can read the first post in this series HERE, where I shared your answers to the question, ‘Why do we read/write historical fiction?’.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing guest articles written by individuals on Substack with a wealth of experience in the world of historical fiction publishing. They have very kindly agreed to share their thoughts on the theme of how to get published, whether that’s through traditional publishing houses, indie publishing, services like Amazon publishing, and a special edition ‘from the editors’.
These articles will be shared each Saturday and Sunday until the end of November, a bumper posting schedule to showcase this wonderful genre that many of us call home.
Self-publishing through Amazon KDP
Today’s article has kindly been put together by
, the author of here on Substack.
After a career teaching Classics, Fiona started writing when her family moved to Qatar. Now back in the UK, she has published five novels set in Ancient Rome.
I asked Fiona a few questions about her experience publishing with Amazon KDP, and here is what she had to say. Thank you Fiona - and enjoy!
Describe your background in publishing historical fiction.
I began with self publishing as I had no confidence that any publisher would want my books. Self-publishing through Amazon KDP meant that my mum could read my books and that was my priority. By the time I had written my third book, I was wondering about the likelihood of getting a publisher. I met a friend (on a writing course, which can be very useful for making contacts) who was being published and I investigated her publisher - they were looking for historical novels so I thought I would give them a try. They have published five of my books now.
Why did you choose the publishing route you went down?
Because they were willing to publish my book and didn’t ask for money upfront. I decided that the worst thing that could happen was that my books wouldn’t sell. Even then, I would learn a lot. I didn’t think I would ever be picked up by an agent or Big Five or anything like that, I had heard so much about how hard it was to find an agent etc etc, so I went with what I had. Imposter syndrome is huge in this world!
What, if anything, would you do differently if you had the chance to start again?
Try for a bigger percentage! But to be honest, I feel any route to publication is a good route if it helps you to achieve your goals.
What advice would you give to someone looking to publish along the same path you took?
Join the Society of Authors or similar. It’s a writers’ trade union and you need someone to fight on your behalf on the big issues, like AI. They are full of good advice and will vet contracts. Then look for associations catering to your genre, like the Historical Writers Association. If you contact a publisher and they ask for money upfront, don’t. Block everyone who DMs you on Social Media offering “exposure”. There are a lot of creeps and scammers, I’m afraid.
What would be your top 3 tips for anyone writing historical fiction?
First - love your chosen era, you are going to be there a long time.
Second - research is never wasted.
Third - the Historical Writers Association is great.
Where can we find you, on and off Substack?
Do you have experience publishing with Amazon KDP or another publishing route?
Feel free to continue the conversation in the comments! I’d love to hear from you.
Did you know I’ve written a book of short historical fiction stories?
It’s included in the paid membership at Telling Their Tales, or you can buy it HERE.
Related Links
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This was great! I've tried and tried to get a traditional publishing deal (I did have one published in e-book only with Simon & Schuster UK, but it barely sold anything because they really didn't care to market it), and I'm just tired of playing the game. First one era is in fashion, and the market is INUNDATED with books of that era, but then it switches to another era, and they don't want anything else. Just tired of it.