Navigating teh New Landscape of Publishing: A Conversation with Author James Niemeier
The publishing world is undergoing a seismic shift. Traditional gatekeepers are facing challenges as authors increasingly embrace direct-to-reader models, fueled by platforms like crowdfunding.James Niemeier, author of the acclaimed Arkwright Cycle – including the recently crowdfunded Specter of Empire – is at the forefront of this movement. He joins us to discuss the realities of being a creative in today’s cultural climate, the power of independent publishing, and the future of storytelling.
Building a world, One Book at a Time
Niemeier’s Specter of Empire stands as a complete narrative, but readers new to the Arkwright Cycle will find a richer experience by starting with books one and two, The Burned Book and Lord of Fate. The ongoing crowdfunding campaign offers a convenient way to collect the entire series,demonstrating a direct connection between author and audience.
Beyond “Bumper Sticker” Conservatism: A Worldview in Fiction
When asked about conservative themes in his work, Niemeier clarifies a crucial distinction. He isn’t interested in didactic fiction. Rather, his writing stems from a worldview grounded in objective morality, transcendent order, and the inherent dignity of the human person. ”Those assumptions naturally run against the grain of the current cultural establishment,” he explains, “so some readers label them conservative. I think of them as simply true.”
This commitment to his principles, however, hasn’t come without challenges.
The Blacklist and the Backlash: Facing Bias in Publishing
The literary world,Niemeier points out,often operates with a clear ideological bias. “At the legacy level, it’s straightforward: Major publishers blacklist writers who don’t toe the approved ideological line. And reviewers at the big outlets will happily tank a book or ignore it altogether if the author’s politics are ‘incorrect.'”
His solution? Bypass the system entirely.”Don’t play the rigged game. Independent publishing, direct-to-reader relationships, and platforms like backerkit make it possible to reach an audience without asking permission from people who don’t want you there in the first place. If you’re not invited to the party, don’t crash it. Throw your own.”
Crowdfunding: A Partnership Between Author and Reader
Specter of Empire‘s crowdfunding campaign exemplifies this approach. Niemeier emphasizes the collaborative nature of the process. “Crowdfunding lets readers and creators work together directly. There’s no middleman siphoning off revenue or telling you what you’re allowed to write.”
This direct connection isn’t just about funding; it’s about influence. Backers have a voice in the final product, leading to more enterprising and innovative projects than traditional publishers often risk. “It also gives backers a stake in the final product…That collaborative energy produces better, more ambitious projects.” Furthermore, crowdfunding allows for the creation of special editions, enhanced artwork, and expanded content, directly supported by eager readers.
The Power of Patronage: Where Your Money Goes Matters
Niemeier’s previous advice – “Don’t Give Money to People Who Hate You” – feels increasingly relevant.He notes that corporate hostility towards certain viewpoints has become more overt. “Corporations have dropped the mask. They tell you outright what they think of you, and then they expect you to keep paying them.”
Though, he’s optimistic. “The good news is that more people are refusing to comply.” The solution is clear: actively support creators who respect your values and withhold patronage from institutions that don’t. “Every dollar is a vote.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Arkwright Cycle and Beyond
niemeier’s immediate focus is on the 10th-anniversary special edition of his Dragon Award-winning novel, Souldancer, promising a deluxe treatment similar to the recent Nethereal edition. He’s also committed to continuing the Arkwright Cycle. “It’s a big world, and I’m not done exploring it.”
He’s also exploring othre mediums. He’s already ventured into tabletop role-playing games (ttrpgs) and audiobooks, and frequently appears on platforms like YouTube with authors like David V. Stewart and Black Lodge Games. While adapting his novels to video is a possibility, he’s seeking a team that shares his vision.”If someone wants to build with me, I
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