I think you are likely correct on this but I do think having deadlines helped me make sure I actually finished. If I was to write another I would self publish.
A good way to have deadlines is to presell the book, and promise these deadlines to people who paid. Example: buy now for 50% of the final price, two chapters already ready, and I promise one new chapter every two weeks.
I use this strategy, and I’m always amazed that people trust me enough to deliver as promised :)
Given the amount of high profile kickstarter failures (or delays), i'm surprised that people would continue to do pre-orders and such! I guess if the cost is small, it won't be a loss for the backer even if it was delayed.
I use this strategy, and I’m always amazed that people trust me enough to deliver as promised :)