As a self pub author of 4 novels, I agree with trying traditional; however, when my agent still could not sell a YA novel of mine with 3k sales already, I decided to go stay my self pub course. Two important things I spend $$ on a.) an editor ( at least a copy editor) b) a interior designer ( Michelle Lovi out of New Zealand is great!!!) – c) a great cover designer critical. So I am my own LLC. Don’t hesitate to contact me , anyone reading this) for advice. Www.robertpacilio.net