I am an author who is presently trying the "Donation" method for a self-published book. Where I can, I make it available at no upfront cost. (Everywhere but Amazon )
To date, I have moved several thousand copies of this book and so far all reviews are up in the 4 to 5 stars region ( Barnes and Noble - all 5-star reviews, Rating 4-5. Smashwords, rating 4.75 )
To date, total donations recieved through paypal are $14. Plus a coffee and a few offers of help in lieu of payment.
That's less than a 1% donation return even if I do take non-monetary offers into account, however there are a few important things to consider. Firstly, I make it clear that donations are voluntary.
Also, some people have commented on how incredibly difficult it is to make a donation through paypal. It's simply not convenient to most readers to make a donation.
Given that the conversation about the book on MobileRead is going well and everyone seems to enjoy it, I doubt that the lack of donations is due to people disliking the book. On the contrary, my reviews are full of comments from readers who were hooked from page one and some read the entire book in a single sitting.
https://www.mobileread.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=113810
So based on the feedback I get, I think it really is a convenience issue. It takes quite an effort to pay for a book after you've read it and by then the question is why?
Anyway, you're all welcome to read it and donate, or otherwise not.
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/34627
(Turing Evolved)
As for me? Would I do it again? I have no regrets. I am glad to have published the way I did.
And yes, I would do it again and as someone who has taken this sole method for putting their book out, I support this and am happy to answer questions about it.
Regards
David Kitson