Open House Day 12 - Variance Publishing

First Impressions Matter


Good day folks,

I’d like to start off this guest appearance by saying a big thanks to Steve! We are so happy and honored for the opportunity to take part in June’s blog-a-nanza.

With the important stuff aside, Variance is an independent publisher located in the US that takes on fast-paced thriller fiction of all types. From NY Times bestselling authors like Steve Alten and Payne Harrison, to up-and-comers like AJ Tata, Jeremy Robinson, and Steven Savile, we have some great new and established authors on board providing a wide array of storylines like action/adventure, techno, fantasy, and supernatural. Many people ask, “…why does everything have to be fast-paced? It’s like a conspiracy!” Well, for us it is fast-paced because that is what we like to read - what better job could you have than publishing what you enjoy reading? Sounds like a dream, right? A little campy maybe? Well, it’s the truth. So, let’s get on to the main message - first impressions.

Like any other ‘job interview’, as this is what it is when you get down to it, first impressions make a huge difference when there is a sea of other talent out there just waiting to be caught. Let’s go over a few things to make sure you get that foot planted firmly in the door:


-Follow Direction - there is nothing worse than when an employer writes up how and what they want sent to them and the prospective employee sending the info completely disregards the rules. Many times this equals instant DQ… is that right? Probably not, but when you go through as many submissions as publishers do, making special considerations for a select few takes time that just isn’t there. The rules are put in place for you to make sure nothing is missed, so I encourage you to pay attention to them.

-Have a presence - if any of you have been reading the ThrillerBlog posts on promoting yourself or are a vet in the industry you will know this, but having an online and offline presence is important to a publisher. They want to know if you are established - even if you are a Freshman at this whole thing - and can garner an audience and support for your work. While writing is the most important thing for you to do, communicating with your fans and your community takes a close second. And while being an established author is not necessary, knowing that there is a pack of ravenous fans waiting for your title to be released is a big perk.

To add to that, be willing to try new things to promote yourself. Being unique can open you up to new avenues and press that the same ol’ thing saw last year. Not that I’m saying to go rob a bank or become a serial killer to sell a book, but look how much more press the infamous get over the average Joe. Make yourself stick out from the rest.

-Make them aware that you are open to making your book better - yes, I know, this is your blood, sweat, and tears, not mine, not the submission or editing staff, but showing willingness from the get-go that you are open to tightening up your book or editing the flow of content means that there is room to play for both parties. Believe me, publishers want to make the best book they can to sell copies as you wanting to make sure your artistic voice is heard. Mutual respect and willingness to compromise is a must for a successful relationship and printed/posted title.

Now, the moment some may have been waiting for… yes, at this time Variance is accepting submissions through July 8th. BUT, tune-in to the ThrillerBlog for constant updates - it may go longer. It would be posted there first, and subsequently the Facebook and Twitter feeds next. I always look forward to communicating with fans and authors, so please check in, say hello, and make that great first impression.


Variance Publishing
Stan Tremblay