Making the Stories More Accessible

When I first released Phineas Fitch and the Curious Chest and Whispers of the Fallen, I priced the Kindle editions at $9.99. At the time, that felt fair. The books were new, carefully crafted, and priced in line with many other independent titles I had seen.

As I stepped back, looked more closely at the market, and thought about my readers, especially parents purchasing books for their children and those who do not use Kindle Unlimited, I came to a simple realization:

Price should not be a barrier to a good story.

That is why I lowered both Kindle editions to $4.99.

I did not make that decision because I believe the books are worth less. I made it because I want them to be more accessible, and because transparency and integrity are important to both who I am and the work I create.

I believe the paperback and hardcover prices are fair based on the cost of producing, printing, and distributing physical books. The reality behind publishing, however, can be complicated. Printing costs, distribution fees, retailer discounts, and other expenses can reduce what an author earns from each sale. Independent authors often have to balance fair compensation with the desire to make their work available to as many readers as possible.

Digital books are one of the few areas where independent authors can keep production costs lower while still offering readers an affordable option. Even then, the publishing landscape continues to change, and the cost of producing and distributing books rarely moves in a simpler direction.

What will not change is my commitment to being honest with my readers.

You will always get the real me, an author who values stories, readers, and creative integrity more than chasing the largest possible profit margin.

You are more than customers. You are fellow travelers in the worlds I build, explorers, kindred spirits, and allies in imagination.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and believing in stories told with heart. If I can make those stories easier to reach, even if it means earning a little less from each copy, I believe that is worth doing.

This is only the beginning.

🖋️ Ryan L. Smith
Author | Mythic Quill Publishing & Studios

© 2025 Ryan L. Smith. All rights reserved.

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“Because every great tale begins with a spark, a plan… and occasionally, a dragon in need of proper formatting.” 🐉

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