Things Authors Ask Me Every Single Day
(aka Frequently Asked Questions)
Self-Publishing FAQs
What exactly is self-publishing and how does it work?
Self-publishing is the process an author takes to publish their books without literary agents and publishing houses. Typically, this is done using one of many print-on-demand platforms, such as Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and/or hiring a printing press to print their books, so they can sell them directly online.
Why is self-publishing so popular these days?
Because the benefits far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. Indie authors get to maintain creative control over their books, retain all the rights to their books, publish faster and without barriers, and most importantly (to most), keep much more of the revenue earned by the books they wrote, rather than turning over 85% or more to traditional publishers and agents.
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
That depends entirely on many different factors, including whether an indie author retains professional service providers (highly recommended by this coach!) for book cover design, manuscript editing, or other expert help. But the process of self-publishing itself is actually 100% free and any “business” that claims they will do all the self-publishing work for you for a “low fee” are scam artists to be avoided like the plague. Also, paid ads are not required and frankly do not work for most new, unestablished authors with no existing platform or reader fanbase.
How long does self-publishing take?
If done correctly, you should be able to self-publish anywhere from 2 – 4 books per year as an indie author (after your first book, of course). Whereas IF an author even makes it through the grueling and gut wrenching process of trying to find an agent, then a publishing deal, the traditional publishing route can take as many as 2-3 years from the time you complete your manuscript. Most importantly, never rush the process, and always spend at least 90 days building your reader fanbase and getting them hyped about your book BEFORE you launch it!
Can I actually make money self-publishing my books?
Absolutely, yes! In fact, every single client of mine who has completed my program and followed my strategies and advice turned a profit less than one month after launching their book! The key is in making sure you never rush the process, don’t skimp on investing in your book and your career, and find and follow a proven strategy (like mine!) that will help you grow your readership and get the buzz going around your book before it even hits the Amazon feed!
Writing & Editing FAQs
Do I need a professional book editor if I self-publish?
Yes! Yes! A thousand times, yes! Trying to “save money” on the front end by not hiring a professional book editor to review, revise, and polish your manuscript before you publish it is a deadly mistake that will cost you potentially THOUSANDS of dollars in book sales in the long run. Professional editing isn’t just smart, it’s critical to your success as an indie author! If you would like to see what professional, trustworthy, yet affordable pro editing looks like, CLICK HERE to request your free sample edit now!
What's the difference between line editing, content editing, and proofreading?
I’ve outlined all the details for each kind of professional editing service, as well as the difference between all three, and even the current industry accepted rates for professional editing of each kind RIGHT HERE. But what is most important to know is that, as an indie author, you will need all three types of editing. That’s why I offer huge discounts for bundling editing services together for my clients!
How do I know if my book is good enough to self-publish?
Want the God’s honest truth? You don’t. You never will. As authors, we will always second guess our writing and our stories…even years after they have been published, and even if they are award-winners and/or bestsellers! All you can do is make sure you’re not rushing any step of the self-publishing journey, that you learn as much as you can about the writing craft and art of storytelling, keep practicing and improving, and when possible hire a professional (LIKE ME!) to help you both improve and be more confident in your books.
MORE SUPER HELPFUL FAQ’S COMING SOON!
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