Excellent, Lisa, and thanks for the links. I found conferences can be good for talking with other writers and getting opinions on publishers, but of course, there is time and expense involved.
Thanks again,
James

Wow, Denise, thanks for the detailed breakdown. I think the message is: Do your homework! If possible, before settling on a small press of any kind, try to talk to other authors they publish. Most writers have web pages, and email addresses. (Hint: they will be more willing to share information with you if you but hreir book first.)

And you are right, Sheri. Your words will find their way to readers and you will touch hearts and minds. Thank you for commenting and stay with the Writers in the Storm family.
Best,
James

Novels, poetry, recipes! V. M., you're widely-talented, and it sounds like you have an indie publisher that recognizes that. Good for you, and I'm glad to hear you like the covers. (I am getting a new one for my first novel and I like it very much.)
Thanks for commenting!

Now that's interesting, Jenny. What other art form offers connection to another life? That's something to think about, isn't it?
Any WITS contributors want to take that on?

Rebecca, you are one of a select group who make a living writing fiction. Thank you for the kind words about my essay. I remember the very first book club that invited me to speak and how their questions, all of them, were about my characters and their lives away from the page, as if they were flesh-and-blood. I almost said, "Ladies, they have no life beyond what you see," but I realized I was wrong. If I were a gambling man (and I am) I'd wager you believe your characters are out there somewhere, carrying on.
Great comment!
Thanks!

Why, Jennifer, thank you very much. I'm glas the essay got you in it's coils.
Now, what's happening with your story? I know you have one. Type faster!
Best,
James

LOL. Lynette, I appreciate the kind words so much. Yes, and yes again. Technology has provided us with an outlet; it's up to us to use it. It's up to us to put in the work, nailed to the chair, asking "Now what happens?" (Send in two men with guns, of course.)
However, forehead-engraving might be a bit extreme, but if you do it please send me a snapshot.
Thanks,
James