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Is self-publishing a fantasy novel viable?

Is self-publishing a fantasy novel viable?

Self-publishing isn’t just for memoirs and family histories – it’s a fantastic option for fantasy novels, too! It offers a direct way for authors to share their unique and imaginative stories no matter how niche or controversial their topics may be.

Contents

1. Why self-publishing works so well for fantasy
2. Recent success stories in self-published fantasy
3. Tips for self-publishing your fantasy novel
4. Marketing strategies for self-published fantasy novels

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

1. Why self-publishing works so well for fantasy

Self-publishing offers a fantastic opportunity for fantasy authors. This approach is not just viable; it also provides numerous advantages. Let’s explore some reasons why:

 

1.1 Control over series-potential and world-building

Fantasy writing emphasises detailed world-building and character development across multiple books. As a self-published author, you have complete control! You decide the length of your series, control the pacing, and bring your creative vision to life without restrictions.

Unlike traditional publishers that often impose limits on series length and story changes, self-publishing lets you carve your own path. Picture creating a vast fantasy realm filled with rich histories and diverse cultures. Self-publishing empowers you to connect every aspect of your story seamlessly, keeping readers captivated by your attention to detail.

Creating a series of fantasy book over a standalone also helps build a loyal fan base. Readers love diving into ongoing adventures, and you can keep them engaged with each new release.

 

1.2 Allows you to explore niche or controversial topics

Fantasy literature goes beyond just dragons and wizards; it’s a rich genre that embraces diverse themes and intricate narratives. Self-publishing empowers authors to explore niche or unconventional topics that often don’t fit the traditional publishing mould. Whether you want to blend fantasy with cyberpunk elements, delve into dark, morally complex characters, or explore controversial political themes through a fantasy lens, self-publishing gives you the creative freedom to do so.

This unique ability to break boundaries appeals to readers who are over having fantasy gatekept and instead crave fresh perspectives and original storytelling. Additionally, niche topics often attract dedicated audiences. By engaging with these communities, you can build a loyal readership that champions your work and shares it with others.

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2. Recent success stories in self-published fantasy

Still unsure if self-publishing your fantasy novel is the right choice? Have a look at some inspiring success stories of other fantasy authors who started their journey self-published:

 

2.1 Wight – Cradle Series

Will Wight’s Cradle series shines as a prime example of how self-publishing can achieve massive success. Wight used Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) to launch his epic fantasy series, which were his debut novels. With engaging characters and a captivating storyline, he captured the hearts of fantasy fans worldwide and became a New York Times and Kindle best-selling author.

Wight consistently released new content and actively engaged with his audience on platforms like Reddit. By connecting with readers directly, he built a passionate following eager for each new instalment. The Cradle series consistently ranks high on Amazon’s charts, proving that self-publishing fantasy novels can lead to substantial financial rewards.

 

2.2 Sarah J Maas – Assassin’s Blade Novella

Sarah J. Maas’ Assassin’s Blade novella is a remarkable success in the fantasy genre. While most know her for her more recent achievements in traditional publishing, Maas started out by publishing stories online, independent of any publisher. These stories gained so much readership interest, she later gained a traditional publishing deal for her now-acclaimed debut Throne of Glass series.

This strategic choice allowed her to prove her story’s viability and readership long before a traditional publisher was on the scene.

 

2.3 Rachel Aaron – Heartstrikers Series

Rachel Aaron’s Heartstrikers series is another prime example of successful self-publishing in the fantasy genre. By taking control of her writing career through self-publishing, Aaron created a captivating urban fantasy world filled with dragons, magic, and intricate plots. Her commitment to high-quality storytelling and effective marketing strategies built a loyal fan base and earned a host of positive reviews on platforms like Goodreads.

The Heartstrikers series not only showcases Aaron’s talent but also highlights the growing opportunities for self-published authors in today’s competitive market. This success story shows how writers can carve out their niche, engage readers, and thrive as independent authors.

 

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3. Tips for self-publishing your fantasy novel

 

3.1 Invest in detailed world-building

World-building is the backbone of any fantasy novel. Readers crave rich, immersive environments they can lose themselves in. Take the time to flesh out your world’s history, geography, cultures, and magic systems. However, consistency is key – ensure your world adheres to its own rules and logic.

Investing in world-building not only enhances your story’s depth but also lays the foundation for future instalments. Readers who connect with your world will eagerly anticipate returning to it with each new book.

 

3.2 Get an eye-catching cover and well-made book interior

Never underestimate the importance of a captivating book cover in attracting readers. Your book cover is more often than not a reader’s first impression of you and your book, making it a crucial marketing tool. Collaborating with a talented and experienced book cover designer who understands the nuances of the fantasy genre can greatly enhance your cover’s appeal.

A well-designed cover should effectively convey the essence of your story and align with genre expectations without trying to say too much. Simple yet effective covers are best.

For the interior, there is more to it than simply putting words on a page. Typesetting and interior book design play essential roles in not only making your book attractive, but also in making your book an enjoyable reading experience and conveying quality and professionalism.

 

3.3 Use series potential to attract long-term fans

Fantasy storytelling thrives on epic sagas and interconnected narratives. To maximise your success, plan your book series from the very beginning. Create a detailed roadmap that outlines the main plot, character development, and key events. This strategic foresight helps you plant the seeds of foreshadowing for future instalments, keeping readers engaged and eager for more.

 

3.4 Build your community with genre-focused marketing

Engage with your audience by establishing a strong online presence – your author platform. Using your author platforms, join fantasy-themed forums, subreddits, and social media groups to interact with fans. On your own accounts and author website, share valuable insights into your writing process, offer behind-the-scenes glimpses, and provide sneak peeks of upcoming book releases.

Doing all of this promotes community interaction and loyalty, fostering a sense of belonging for readers. The more engaged your audience is, the more likely they are to promote your novels and keep coming back for future editions and sequels.

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4. Marketing strategies for self-published fantasy novels

Writing a captivating novel is just the beginning; effective book marketing plays a crucial role in reaching a larger audience. By using marketing strategies, authors can significantly boost their visibility and connect with readers, maximising their book’s reach in today’s competitive literary market.

 

4.1 Create a visual presence on social media

Visual content reigns supreme on social media. To effectively engage your audience, use eye-catching graphics, stunning book covers, captivating character art, and engaging videos. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are perfect for showcasing your fantasy world with visually appealing content. You can use interactive posts, polls, and Q&A sessions to boost engagement as well, generating interest and readership loyalty.

Be sure to regularly share updates on your writing process and upcoming book releases. The key to keeping readers excited about your work is to establish a strong, consistent, and appealing author brand across your platforms.

 

4.2 Leverage Kindle Unlimited (KU) for extra visibility on your eBook

Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited (KU) program offers a fantastic opportunity for self-published authors to boost their book’s visibility. By enrolling in Kindle Unlimited, authors let readers access their eBooks for free through a subscription service, significantly broadening their audience reach.

Participating in the KU program can also improve your book’s ranking on Amazon’s bestseller charts, making it more visible to potential buyers. This extensive reach introduces your work to new readers who might not have discovered it otherwise, ultimately increasing your book sales and loyal readership.

 

4.3 Connect with fantasy bloggers and Bookstagrammers

Contacting influencers in the fantasy community is a powerful way to boost your book’s visibility, allowing you to tap into their dedicated followers who value their recommendations. To get started, be sure to do your research to ensure the reviewer or influencer aligns to your marketing needs (there isn’t much use sending a fantasy novel to someone who only reviews non-fiction books!). When you’ve received interest and approval, then you can organise sending out review copies of your book to them or participate in author interviews and features on their platforms.

These collaborations often lead to increased exposure, positive reviews, and a growing readership. In turn, this helps to enhance your credibility as a self-published author and connect you with a larger audience who are passionate about fantasy novels.

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Most popular blog posts:

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

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Choosing the best childrens book format for your target age

Choosing the best childrens book format for your target age

Choosing the right book format for your child is as crucial as selecting the right book itself. Whether you want to foster a love of reading in your child, engage students as a teacher, or attract young readers as a self-published author, the format plays a significant role. Different age groups have unique needs regarding books, and picking the appropriate format can greatly enhance the reading experience.

Contents

1. Board books for babies and toddlers
2. Picture books for preschoolers
3. Early readers for kindergarteners
4. Chapter books for young readers
5. Middle grade novels for tweens

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

1. Board books for babies and toddlers

If you have a toddler at home, you know how much they love to explore their world with all their senses. That’s where board books become essential. Designed for little hands, these sturdy books suit young readers perfectly and are ideal for early childhood development. They can engage toddlers and encourage a love for reading from an early age.

1.1 Why board books?

Board books offer high durability, making them perfect for babies and toddlers who may not handle their belongings gently. They’re easy to grip and feature thick pages that little ones can turn easily. Ideal for early childhood reading, board books nurture a love of literature from a young age while withstanding the wear and tear of daily use.

1.2 How to make your board book

When selecting the perfect board book for your child, prioritise bright colours and simple, engaging illustrations. Interactive features such as lift-the-flap designs and textured surfaces keep your little one entertained, but can be expensive to print, so consider your budget ahead of time. Additionally, books with repetitive text and rhymes not only captivate young readers but also support language development.

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2. Picture books for preschoolers

As children grow, their reading needs evolve significantly. For preschoolers just beginning to grasp the concept of stories, picture books serve as an ideal choice. These engaging books can start to have more in-depth narratives than baby and toddler books, but still need vibrant images to help the child understand the narrative. By incorporating colorful illustrations and simple text, picture books lay a perfect foundation for early literacy development.

2.1 Importance of picture books

Picture books blend engaging illustrations and simple text that bring stories to life. These books play a crucial role in helping children enhance their vocabulary, understand story sequencing, and nurture a lifelong love for storytelling. By reading picture books, kids enjoy tales and at the same time build essential language skills that support their early literacy development.

2.2 The key features for your picture book

When creating picture books for children, prioritise vibrant, engaging illustrations and straightforward but interesting storylines. Opt for texts that are short and simple, allowing the colorful images to convey the story and enhance early literacy to foster a love for reading in young readers.

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3. Early readers for kindergarteners

When children enter kindergarten, they become primed for early readers. These specially designed books facilitate the transition from picture books to more text-heavy stories, supporting literacy development without throwing them in the deep end. Early readers play a crucial role in helping young kids enhance their reading skills and build confidence as they explore more complex narratives.

3.1 Benefits of early readers

Early readers feature simple sentences and familiar vocabulary which helps children start reading independently. These books often include rhyming words and repetitive phrases, making reading fun and boosting confidence. Engaging stories and relatable language support literacy development in young learners.

3.2 What to consider for your early reader

When making a book for early readers, opt for large print with ample white space to make the text more approachable. Include illustrations, but keep them secondary to the text to aid comprehension. This approach helps young readers feel confident and engaged as they develop their reading skills.

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4. Chapter books for young readers

Once children gain confidence with early readers, they are ready to transition to chapter books. These chapter books feature more text and fewer illustrations, serving as a vital bridge between early reading materials and more advanced novels. This progression helps young readers develop their skills and prepares them for more complex stories. Engaging with chapter books not only enhances literacy but also encourages imagination and critical thinking.

4.1 Why chapter books?

Chapter books play a crucial role in helping young readers build reading stamina and enhance their skills. They offer more complex storylines and characters that prepare children for longer novels. By engaging with chapter books, kids improve their comprehension and become confident readers, setting a strong foundation for their literary journey.

4.2 How to make your young reader

Focus on developing an easy-to-follow storyline with interesting characters. Because young readers have very few illustrations, remember to include ample description of characters, places, and items to engage the reader’s imagination and start developing this important skill.

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5. Middle grade novels for tweens

Middle grade novels, aimed at tweens aged 8–12, serve as perfect gateways for young readers ready to explore more complex themes and engaging storylines. These novels seldom feature illustrations and require much more in the way of plot and characterisation than the previous book types discussed. Middle grade novels provide a substantial reading experience, helping tweens to develop critical reading skills while enjoying captivating narratives.

5.1 The importance of middle grade novels

These novels help tweens enhance critical thinking skills and foster empathy through diverse characters and relatable situations. By presenting various perspectives, they encourage deeper engagement with literature, making reading a more enriching experience for young readers.

5.2 Creating your middle grade novel

When writing books for tweens, focus on stories that feature strong, relatable characters and engaging plots that promote critical thinking and personal growth. Don’t be afraid to write a plot twist or two! Select age-appropriate themes that address real-life challenges a child of this age bracket may encounter (even if fantastical!).

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SUBMIT YOUR BOOK DETAILS
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Most popular blog posts:

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

submit your project details

A guide to publishing your book online

A guide to publishing your book online

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Self-publishing their books online and side-stepping the traditional publishing route is a way that many authors make their publishing dreams come true. But just how do you go about publishing your book online? What can you expect from the process and what will be expected of you in return? This comprehensive guide will teach you how to craft your manuscript, publish your book, and market it effectively.

Contents

1. How to kickstart your online publishing journey
2. Crafting your manuscript for online success
3. Designing a book that stands out online
4. Editing your book
5. Printing your book
6. Online distribution platforms for your book
7. Promoting your book in the digital age
8. Understanding royalties and pricing your book online
9. What to do after you’ve hit ‘publish’
10. FAQs

1. How to kickstart your online publishing journey

Before you begin writing, take some time to brainstorm. Consider your topic, target audience, and the main plot points you want to hit or information you need to include. A well-thought-out plan makes your writing process smoother and more enjoyable. Some things to consider are as follows.

1.1 Define your genre and audience

Understanding your genre and target audience is crucial for effective writing. Whether you’re crafting a fantasy world for young adults or writing a self-help book for professionals, knowing who you’re writing for can significantly enhance your focus. Creating targeted content that appeals to specific reader demographics ensures your work resonates with this readership and stands out among the competitive market.

1.2 Create an outline

An outline is your roadmap to writing success. Break down your book into chapters, sections, or major plot points to stay organised and maintain a logical flow. This method helps to structure your story or content, enhancing readability and keeping your audience engaged.

1.3 Set achievable goals

Writing a book can feel overwhelming. To make the process easier, set small, manageable goals such as writing one chapter a week. Celebrate each milestone to stay motivated and keep your writing momentum going.

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2. Crafting your manuscript for online success

Now that you have a plan, all that’s left at this stage is to start writing your book! Crafting a great manuscript is crucial, so focus on quality content to engage readers and boost your chances of success.

  • Write regularly: Consistency is crucial for success in writing. Schedule dedicated time daily or weekly to focus on your writing. Treat it as an unmissable appointment.
  • Focus on quality: Focus on your writing style, grammar, and structure to improve readability. High-quality work is crucial, especially in self-publishing where you set your content’s standards.
  • Seek feedback: Share your writing with trusted friends or join a writers’ group for constructive criticism. Feedback can significantly improve your manuscript before publication.

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3. Designing a book that stands out online

A captivating book cover can significantly boost your book’s appeal, but there is a crucial thing you as the author needs to do:

Cut your book designer loose.

After briefing the book designer of your needs and the style you’re looking for, don’t try to manage the process. Instead, let your designer do what they do best and design you a great book cover and effective typography. They will have ideas and industry insight that you may not, so their expertise is invaluable.

At Green Hill, our experienced book designers design professional book covers to ensure your book stands out and holds up to the standards of traditional published books in the market.

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4. Editing your book

Editing is a crucial step in the book publishing process and should never be overlooked. A well-edited book has improved readability, a clearer storyline and structure, enhances the reader’s experience, and ensures your content remains professional and polished.

4.1 Self-editing tips

Begin by reading your manuscript aloud to catch errors and awkward phrasing. Use tools like Grammarly to enhance your proofreading for grammar and spelling checks. Improve your writing with these editing tips for authors. Check out our post about drafting your own work for a little extra assistance.

4.2 Hire a professional editor

Hiring a professional editor for your book will give you a comprehensive review help you to enhance your book even further. Editors provide valuable insights and help polish your manuscript, ensuring it stays well-written and engaging. For more about what is involved in editing a book, read our post on book editing for self-publishing.

4.3 Proofreading

After completing the editing process, it’s important to review the changes and proofread your manuscript multiple times. This is to check for any remaining errors or inconsistencies or introduced errors from the track changes process. Doing these reviews ensures a polished and professional final product and minimal errors. Thorough proofreading can significantly improve the quality of your writing.

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5. Printing your book

If you love holding a physical copy of a book over an eBook, printing your book would be the route for you. There are many book printing services to choose from, but the main differences are whether they are Print-on-demand or a Bulk (trade) printer.

  • Print-on-demand: Print-on-Demand (POD) services offer a cost-effective solution for self-published authors by printing copies only when ordered. This method reduces costs and manages inventory efficiently, making it popular among independent writers looking to publish their books.
  • Bulk printing: If you expect high demand, consider bulk printing. Bulk printing lowers the cost per copy and saves money, but requires an at time substantial upfront investment. Be sure to research and compare printers based on services, prices, and reviews and check that they provide the quality and features your project requires.

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6. Online distribution platforms for your book

Online book distribution is crucial for any author to reach a global audience. Major online publishing platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark simplify the process of publishing your book online, and Green Hill can help our authors distribute with both of these platforms. If these platforms aren’t for you, there are other smaller options available for authors with different needs.

6.1 Amazon KDP

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) stands out for self-published authors. This platform provides easy-to-use tools to format your book and reach millions of readers worldwide with an option for expanded distribution in the US and UK. Self-publishing with KDP expands your audience and boosts your book’s visibility.

6.2 IngramSpark

IngramSpark gives authors access to global distribution channels of over 30,000 online and brick-and-mortar bookstores, including libraries. Authors can reach a wider audience with both print-on-demand and digital publishing options available.

6.3 Barnes & Noble Press

Barnes & Noble Press offers an excellent self-publishing option for authors. This platform allows authors to easily create an account and publish their book with simplicity.

6.4 Selling on your own website

You can also self-sell your book directly from your own author website. This strategy lets you control pricing, maximise sales, and gather your customer details for marketing. Selling books online directly from your author website also helps you build a closer connection with your audience as they feel more connected to you personally, rather than going through a third-party retailer. If you’re interested to know more about author websites, check out our author website services.

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7. Promoting your book in the digital age

Marketing is essential for making your book stand out among the book market. Green Hill offers expert book marketing services as part of our Premium Package or for individual purchase to help you reach your target audience and boost book sales. Some strategy points to start with include the following:

  • Social media promotion: Use social media platforms to engage with readers and increase your book’s visibility. Share behind-the-scenes content, exclusive teasers, and upcoming launch dates.
  • Email newsletters: Build an email list and send regular updates to your subscribers. Provide exclusive content, special discounts, and early access to new products. Doing this helps to boost readership engagement and loyalty.
  • Collaborate with influencers: Collaborate with genre-specific influencers to expand your audience reach. They can increase your book’s visibility through reviews and social media promotions.

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8. Understanding royalties and pricing your book online

Correctly pricing your book is crucial for maximising your book sales, so understanding book royalties will help you to make informed pricing decisions. Some tips to do this include:

  • Do your research into other books: To determine competitive pricing, research similar books in your genre. Attract readers by offering discounts or promotions.
  • Check your pricing in all markets: For global distribution, your book will be priced differently in each country based on their exchange rates. Make sure to check each market price to be sure the royalty amount you’ll receive from your sales is to your liking.
  • Keep up to date on your royalty amounts: Various platforms offer different royalty structures. Understand your earnings from each sale and incorporate this into your pricing strategy. Analyse platform royalties to optimise your pricing and boost your revenue.
  • Green Hill’s approach to royalties: At Green Hill, we are fee-for-service, meaning we don’t take royalties from our authors’ sales. This ensures you retain 100% ownership of your rights and profits from your sales.

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10. What to do after you’ve hit ‘publish’

Publishing your book is just the first step. To ensure your book is an ongoing success, follow these key strategies for book promotion and marketing:

10.1 Monitor sales and feedback

Track your sales and read customer feedback. Use this valuable information to enhance your future projects and get real-time insight into how your readership feels about your book. Tracking sales and analysing customer feedback with an open mind will lead to better project outcomes.

10.2 Plan future releases

Start planning your next book or series today to stay active in the writing community and give your readership something to look forward to and stay loyal for. Regular releases can help build a loyal reader base and boost your author brand.

10.3 Stay engaged with your audience

Engage with your audience through social media, email newsletters, and author events. Building a strong online community boosts long-term success, so be sure to stay connected and foster relationships with your readership for lasting results.

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11. FAQs

11.1 How long does it take to publish a book online?

The timeline for publishing a book depends on editing, formatting, and distribution factors. Typically, the process takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Understanding these steps will help you plan your book’s publishing schedule more effectively.

11.2 Do I need an ISBN for my book?

An ISBN is essential when it comes to selling physical books, eBooks, and audiobooks, too. ISBNs help catalogue, distribute, and make your book easily discoverable by readers. Some books need (such as sheet music publications and serials) require other identification numbers such as ISSNs and ISMNs.

11.3 Can I update my book after it’s published?

Yes, most online publishing platforms allow you to update your book’s content even after publication. This feature is perfect for fixing errors or adding new information.

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SUBMIT YOUR BOOK DETAILS
CALL US 1300 810 131

Most popular blog posts:

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

submit your project details