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Hi everyone,
Not really plugging any book, but seeking some insights from you as readers (and fellow writers). I have an alternate history novel based in India which is going to be published in paperback in the next 3 months by an Indian publisher. I hold the digital rights, so have been agonizing over whether or not I should make it available on the Kindle.
It really boils down to whether US readers would have any interest in the idea. I know historical fiction is a very active genre (and one I love) with masters like Conn Iggulden etc- and also alternate history masters like Harry Turtledove- the difference is that they primarily write about `Western' history and settings ie. those that Western readers would relate to more easily and perhaps accept more.
My novel is set in 1857 (the year of the first revolt by Indians against British rule) and is based on a simple twist of history- what would things have looked like if India had never been conquered by the British? So the Mughal Empire still reigns supreme, dealing with raiders from the Afghan borders, internal dissensions and British subterfuge. Given that one of the key characters is a British officer and the history of the Raj has a lot of resonance among British readers- I think it would find some readers among British audiences.
Big unknown for me was whether anyone in the US would want to read such a book. I know uploading is free- but there is work involved- formatting, cover design etc- and I could use that time for other writing projects.
Let me know what you feel. Your insights would really help me make up my mind.
Regards
Mainak
Not really plugging any book, but seeking some insights from you as readers (and fellow writers). I have an alternate history novel based in India which is going to be published in paperback in the next 3 months by an Indian publisher. I hold the digital rights, so have been agonizing over whether or not I should make it available on the Kindle.
It really boils down to whether US readers would have any interest in the idea. I know historical fiction is a very active genre (and one I love) with masters like Conn Iggulden etc- and also alternate history masters like Harry Turtledove- the difference is that they primarily write about `Western' history and settings ie. those that Western readers would relate to more easily and perhaps accept more.
My novel is set in 1857 (the year of the first revolt by Indians against British rule) and is based on a simple twist of history- what would things have looked like if India had never been conquered by the British? So the Mughal Empire still reigns supreme, dealing with raiders from the Afghan borders, internal dissensions and British subterfuge. Given that one of the key characters is a British officer and the history of the Raj has a lot of resonance among British readers- I think it would find some readers among British audiences.
Big unknown for me was whether anyone in the US would want to read such a book. I know uploading is free- but there is work involved- formatting, cover design etc- and I could use that time for other writing projects.
Let me know what you feel. Your insights would really help me make up my mind.
Regards
Mainak