digitally publishing because i can.
On.Pricing
Whenever possible, the content created by myself or authors that I'm publishing is packaged without DRM, and reasonably priced. I look at the current market, and think about how many hours of entertainment the work is likely to give someone - then decide on a price for it. For example, while I love getting a fancy $5 coffee, I'm only going to get an hour or so worth of enjoyment out of it. Give me a good anthology or novel - usually 7 to 10 hours worth of reading time - and that's worth a hell of a lot.
I know that DRM is doomed to failure - I've written an entire series of blog articles on it. But those who are wanting to steal our books are going to. In the meantime, DRM keeps our real readers from truly owning our books, or reading them on whatever device they choose. Yes, I'm going to remind you that "The author of these stories worked hard on them. By purchasing this work, you become a patron of the arts and support independent authors bringing you quality entertainment." I'm not going to restrict your ability to read the book because some people can't be bothered to support the things they like.
Paying.For.It
I know, it's easy to find torrents of books, movies, and music. Thing is, if you want more of those books, movies, and TV shows you like, you've got to pay for them somehow. I know three, maybe four authors who are able to support themselves full-time doing fiction writing. Because it's their full-time job, they're able to spend all day working on books. The rest of us get to slag through day jobs just like you - and then try to find time to write. Imagine how much more your favorite artists and writers would produce if they didn't have to deal with the crappy day job.
After.You.Torrented
If you first came across our work through piracy or "sharing", great! Help support us now and in the future. Alliteration Ink is a small outfit. It's me - Steve Saus - and those who are working with me on any individual project. Buy a copy of the actual book, both so that we can pay our authors and so that we know what you're wanting to read. And if you can't buy the book this time, buy the next book by those authors.
Because this business is so small, our overhead is really low. Practically all the proceeds go to the author - so when you pay for it, the author(s) get most of the payment.
Still confused or wondering what I'm talking about? Check out Tsunami Ridge's policy on pricing and piracy (they're not me, but we have similar philosophies). If you still have questions, contact me.
Projects.In.Brief
Eighth Day Genesis: A Worldbuilding Codex
Creating a believable world for your story is a craft. Over twenty authors share their tips and secrets about creating a fictional world. Due out late May 2012
The Crimson Pact
The forces of evil strike across worlds. The forces of good, embodied in the Crimson Pact, must be willing to sacrifice anything to be able to save everything.
Spec the Halls
It's a charity. It's a contest. It's winter holiday-themed speculative fiction that benefits Heifer International.
Freelancer Resource
As more creative types go it alone, it's important to be able to find quality people to help.