ClancysLegendaryRed

I went through and deleted my previous comments about my experience in the industry as I wanted Emmanuel a chance to say what he needed to say without much outside interference, but I suppose I'll comment.

Most authors do need help, but by no means do they need to pay for help. Traditional publishing is difficult to get into, but it is definitely not dying.

Unpaid writing partners and advice found on websites like AbsoluteWrite forums is absolutely free, and more guidance than anyone who has an actual desire and drive to write and be published could ever need to succeed.

Traditional publishers use agents to do the vetting for them, and yes - getting an agent's attention is difficult for this reason. However, claiming that not working with a paid editor is going to negatively impact their chances of getting good responses to their queries (as I seem to think you're implying, correct me if wrong) is far from the truth.

I have had four novels traditionally published, and have an agent myself. I got my first contract at 21, so it's not like I spent a lifetime of editing or paying editors to make it work. I would never consider myself any kind of exceptionally gifted author in that regard.

All I'm saying is that roping people with a genuine desire to write and be heard in with fees and bids may not be in their best interest.

E-publishing, self-publishing (or indie publishing, they're one in the same) is another awesome route for people if that fits their desires, as you mention.

EDIT: Just to be clear, I have never paid a cent in my literary career. My publishers have all covered editing services after acceptance, as is standard with most traditional publishers.

A golden hallmark in traditional publishing is that money should always and only flow towards the author. Anything else is either self-publishing, a paid editing service, or a scam.

How do you respond to this?

Fantastic answer.

I hear you, and none of this is aimed at you personally.

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my question.

You are absolutely right.

I use other author friends I've found over the years and trade work back and forth with them, doesn't cost me a dime.