So, you're looking to self-publish, but don't know where to start? Look no further, this page will get you going in the right direction. ​
Why self-publish?
As a self-published author, you have complete creative control. You can get away with a little more than your trad published counterparts.
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Word count is a little more lenient.
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Creative control of your cover art and interior.
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No real deadlines.
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All profits are yours. (And uncle Sams. Sorry.)
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You can write in any genre without having already been huge in the writing world.
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As amazing as self-publishing is, there are cons to this avenue:
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You will have to pay for all your services. Editing. Cover art. Marketing. Formatting, Etc. (If you do not do them yourself) (For list of writing steps, click here)
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Your book may never see more than a few sales. Especially, if you don't market.
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No wide instore distribution.
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The neutral:
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Having a self published book doesn't help or hinder your chances of getting traditionally published. (Unless your self published book does astronomical in sales. You do have to disclose with an agent after they take you on if you decide to through traditional avenues)
Book Covers
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Despite popular belief, people do in fact judge a book by its cover. There are many ways to find someone within your budget, who can also convey your vision.
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Facebook groups, but more specifically, artist groups. There are amazing artists always looking to get a cover under their belt for their portfolio.
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Fiverr - Please read reviews.
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Etsy - please read the post before purchasing.
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Author groups. Most of us do it all!​​​​
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Us! we offer pre-mades as well as custom covers. Check us out.
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Expect to pay $100 to a few thousand, depending on who you go to, and what you want. Pre-mades will always be cheaper. (and can be updated down the road)
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**We DON'T tolerate and will never recommend A.I. It steals from artists and you legally can't copyright it, so someone can steal it from you.**
Formatting
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EVERY novel needs to be formatted. This is the layout and design of the interior of your novel.
You can pay someone to do it for you. Facebook. Fiverr. Etc. Expect $100 to about $400 (if you want art).​​
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We offer this as well. Click here to check us out!
Here are a few video's if you would like to attempt to do it yourself for free or a subscription.
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Upload to Amazon KDP
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Free to upload.
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As much as we hate the Zon, it's unfortunately the best way for a new author or seasoned author to make money. Please read the new rules and follow them to avoid having your account closed.
Opt out of the A.I. reader they are trying to push.
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If you enroll in Kindle Unlimited, another great way to gain traction as well as money, you CAN'T have your E-book anywhere else until it is taken out of KU. If your E-book is found somewhere online, they will close your account.
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Big tip: Don't charge more than $4.99 for an e-book. No one will buy it or review it. Start off smaller, $2.99, and watch your sales move faster and your reviews grow.
Upload to Ingram Spark
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Free to upload.
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I have a love-hate with Ingram spark, however, they are the main Print-On-Demand that places like Barnes & Noble and other store front, order from to carry in their stores.
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The downside to POD's is they take a huge cut. If you make $5 on amazon, you make about $2 on IG or places a like. ​
Second link for KDP/IG ​​
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​Example:
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IG puts it on Amazon. Price $17.99. I make $2.19
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Amazon price $17.99
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I make $5.45
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Marketing your book
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We have found making videos and chatting around Tiktok and other platforms helps in free marketing. It just takes time. Most people just want to hear about your process. Your journey.
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Below is a link to several YouTube videos on how to market effectively.
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ISBN's
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​If you are only publishing on Amazon, you can use their free ASIN. But you can't use it anywhere else.
Therefore, you must buy ISBN's to upload your novel everywhere.
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I suggest saving the money and buying the 10 pack for the best price. (This is the only world wide recognized ISBN provider)
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Do not buy barcodes. Those are provided by the print on demand, stores and Amazon.
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You need a separate ISBN for your E-book, paperback and hardback.
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If you need to rerelease your previously published book, you need a new ISBN
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