Why this Blog?

I write under the pen name of Eric Thomson. I’m an independently published science fiction author with a few years in the business and a string of successful novels to my credit. Like most of my peers, I participate in a number of fora aimed at independently published authors were we congregate to seek and dispense advice, share experiences, commiserate and celebrate success. Sadly, a lot of the advice dispensed on matters concerning the business of independent publishing ranges from unhelpful to outright nonsense. Some of the most talented authors out there have a hard time wrapping their heads around things beyond the art of writing and editing, and risk accepting opinions and advice that can impede or even scuttle a promising career. Up to now, I’ve intervened in various fora when I saw nonsense being dispensed, but as a natural curmudgeon, I daresay I come across as uncomfortably blunt to many. Therefore, I’ve decided to pull back and offer my rants, insights and opinions in my own sandbox, this blog.

What are my qualifications, you ask? Well, I’ve published 17 science fiction novels so far under my own imprint, Sanddiver Books, and incorporated my publishing enterprise under Sanddiver Books Inc. in 2019 because it became the right business move for various reasons. I’ve sold in excess of 143,000 copies of my novels since October 2014 across the world and through all major retailers, mostly in ebook, but also hardcover and paperback. As well, Tantor Media acquired the audiobook rights to three of my novels, which means I have a toe in the traditional publishing business world.

In other words, I have skin in the game.

I’m also a former Chartered Professional Accountant, which gives me a solid background when it comes to business in Canada, a former information technology executive and a retired Army officer. Does that mean my opinions are the truth with a capital “T”? No. Of course not. Take anything I say with a few grains of salt since each writer charts a solitary path which doesn’t match any other writer’s path. My goal is to make you think about the advice you read in online fora, do your own research and make informed choices based on what’s best for you and you only.