Goblin House was set up to fulfil the publishing requirements of Nelly Harper.
The publishing world is currently undergoing a massive change. Publishing houses are loathed to take on new talent during these unsettled economic times, and even those that are, hesitate to put much funding behind any new venture. Hence the number of famous names on bookshop shelves and promotion tables and the distinct lack of ‘unknowns’. It is hardly surprising that this has happened, and you cannot blame companies for trying to protect their interests. It has however made it much harder for up and coming authors to gain a foothold.
Many are turning to self-publishing, quickly rolling off an e-book, or using Amazon to get a print version available. This has been fantastic for new authors who no longer have to put in the years of trying to get noticed by an agent. It has however flooded the market with poorly edited work, some of which, sadly, should never have been published.
It has, however, opened up a third avenue for the professionally minded author. To become self-published using a reputable third-party self-publishing company (there are many disreputable ones), who, for a fee, will take a quality manuscript and have it professionally published. The responsibility for all marketing and the ultimate success of the book lies with the author.
For the works of Nelly Harper, we took this process one step further and created Goblin House. A publishing house set up initially to solely work with Nelly and ensure that her work is produced to the highest standards possible. Using industry specialists where needed, Nelly has managed to create a place where she can keep full artistic control of her work – something which is extremely important to her.
Eventually, it is hoped that Goblin House may be able to open its doors and welcome some new talent in. For any of you aspiring authors out there who are struggling to find your place, we say keep at it. This whole industry is changing, don’t cling to the usual commercial route. Go indie!