Up top, a couple of questions:
Where does the name "Mojocastle" come from? I mean, a name like that has to have a back story, right?
It does indeed. It was thought up by my previous partner. We liked the concept of a "Magic House", and that was her brainchild.
How many fiction books have you had a hands on part of publishing? Titles? Authors?
As of last count, we have over a hundred titles currently in active distribution. We have a queue of several more in final edit stage. If I'm understanding your reference to "hands on" correctly, you're meaning that I actively had a hand in publishing. That would be all of them. I insist on my eyes being the last on all titles to ensure quality control. I am proud to have thirty-two authors in my house, including well-known authors like Morgan Hawke, D.J. Manly, Carys Weldon, and Devyn Quinn.
What is your definition of "independent publishing house," please? No offense intended, mind, but it is one of those buzz terms that some folks have used loosely and it would make sense to plant your flag clearly for the up and coming authors here.
Ah, yes, I understand. The standard definition is fairly simple: a publishing house who isn't part of a recognized corporation or other large entity. My house does fit that description. But I do have my own personal definition as well.
As I stated, I personally oversee all aspects of the production and distribution process to maintain consistent quality. My basis for quality is based on what I have learned readers enjoy and appreciate, not on a preconceived style guide or accepted formulas. Now, this does not mean I ignore proper grammar and spelling, just that I have my own house style guide.
While I utilize third party distributors such as Barnes and Noble and Amazon, I am careful to ensure said distribution is set up to fully benefit both the house and the author.
I have a partnership with a small private printer for print titles. These print books are sold on Amazon and are available for booksignings. The best part? There is no return policy to deal with. Most companies rely on mainstream producers for their print books (Lightning Source, Lulu). I do not. My overhead is much less because of this, therefore, all authors can get their titles in print without having to reach a sales goal, and the royalty is also much higher than standard on said print.
Finally, I have total freedom to publish anything I find to be of a quality consistent with other works in my house without having to adhere to formula or preconceived rules, or even discuss it with a committee.
I seemed to have made a bit of a speech there, but I hope that answered your question. (.:
And thank you for being so open and up front.
Always.
