In the current publishing environment, many mid-list authors have taken hits. Some mid-list authors can and do keep writing, enjoy healthy sales, and have great careers while rarely hitting a bestseller list. This is a great and rewarding path. However, in recent times, market changes and the closing of fiction lines in particular have left some mid-list authors without a home. Or perhaps simply in a career slump.

For the purpose of this post, I am defining mid-list as the large group of solid performers who have not yet broken into the ranks of consistent bestsellers. A number of authors fall into this category.

Please consult your agent for advice tailored to your career, but here are some options to think about:

1.) Change genres. This is not the same as chasing the market, but could put you in an area where there is more opportunity. If you do change genres, I recommend writing a complete book to be sure you enjoy your new genre, and consulting your agent about marketing possibilities.

2.) Use a pen name. This has the disadvantage of putting you in a starting position, but it also gives you a chance to reboot. This is a big decision that will need to be handled with skill and finesse, so be sure to consult your agent and editor before making this move.

3.) Become a hybrid author. Get the rights to your back list if you don’t already have them and publish those titles. Augment them with fresh new works. This is not a drastic move, but please fill your agent in on any plans to be a hybrid author to keep him in the loop.

4.) Seek a new publishers. With your agent’s assistance, you may find a new home with fresh ideas and a new attitude.

5.) Stay the course. You may be strong enough to weather the slump. Keep writing!

Your turn:

Have you noticed any of your favorite authors making new moves?

Are you thinking of changing your career path?