Hi. So... you know me. I've been here for a while. Ten years, to be exact. Well, almost. I started writing professionally in 2006, which makes 2016 my 10-year anniversary as a writer. My tenniversary.
When I reflect upon the early days, what really stands out is how much other authors helped me. I had no fucking CLUE what I was doing and many more experienced authors took me under wing. I haven't forgotten their kindness. I haven't forgotten THEM, even though many have since disappeared from the internet.
Since I can't necessarily repay their kindness directly, I've decided to pay it forward.
That's why, throughout 2016, I will be giving stuff away to readers and writers alike. I'm starting early because I just can't wait.
Okay, so... if I'm a writer, why am I giving away premade ebook covers?
I know. It's kinda weird. But it's because when I started out, I was always working with small presses or other types of publishers. They provided cover art. When I dipped my toes into self-publishing, the scariest part was having to secure cover art. Sure cover art should be left to the professionals, but I couldn't afford to commission graphic designs. To be honest, I still can't afford that. So I taught myself a design program and I've been learning its ins and outs over the past few years.
Here's the thing:
It's getting harder and harder to sell books, and I don't want any aspiring or even established authors to NOT publish their book because they can't afford cover art. If you can afford it, yes, absolutely commission your art from a designer. Support other artists, like a friend of mine who runs http://www.coverimpact.com. Her work is incredibly incredible.
But if you're poor like me, or you just don't realistically feel your work will earn back what you might spend on graphic design, I don't want you to feel put off.
I want to help.
Yes, for free. Yes, out of the goodness of my heart. Because so many authors have helped me over the years.
How's it going to work?
As of now, I've made a total of 16 unique covers that could be used for books across various genres (Mystery, New Adult, YA, Erotica, LitFic, Self-Help). When I post them in the coming days, you'll be able to judge whether one of them suits a book you're hoping to publish.
I've decided to do this on a first come, first served basis, so sign up for my newsletter NOW to be the first to know when the covers are available to request: http://eepurl.com/R4b11
All you'll need to do is fill out the webform when I make it available and give me title and author information to plug into the cover you want. I won't be making multiple copies of each cover because I want authors to end up with a unique image (well, unique as can be considering I'm using stock photos). Also, please, only one request per author. Book titles will be rejected if they contain language that's racist, transphobic, homophobic or otherwise oppressive or derogatory toward any race, religion, gender, ability, sexuality, you get the idea. Just don't.
If you've written a book and you're fretting about what to do for a cover, whether you're a new author or you've been doing it as long as I have (or longer), maybe you'll find a suitable one in this giveaway. I hope you do!
And, just to reiterate, there won't be any fee for this service, upfront or hidden. I'm not expecting anything in return. One thing I learned this year is that expectations of reciprocity often lead to sorrow. The best part of doing something nice for someone else is the feeling you get when you're doing it. I know that sounds cheesy, but it's true.
Anyway, if you're not on my mailing list, join NOW: http://eepurl.com/R4b11 I'll send out a quickie mailing when the covers are available for request.
Are you excited? I'm excited!
Love you,
Giselle
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