It's not crazy expensive compared to the value of the labor you're automating; but yes, it's steep for an individual if you're not yet producing revenue.
For something similar (and priced differently), we use software from http://emsoftware.com/ to import data into InDesign to automate some of the production of Kirkus Reviews' print magazine.
For something similar (and priced differently), we use software from http://emsoftware.com/ to import data into InDesign to automate some of the production of Kirkus Reviews' print magazine.