Self-published

There are so many routes to take, which I never knew about, until getting serious about writing a book. As of now, I have been a self-published author (since 2020). I have queried traditional publishers, but grew impatient and decided to try this route. Today I know it does take some time when taking the traditional route of publishing, into consideration. Before choosing, I did extensive research. I read hundreds of articles and I even joined Facebook groups, so I can interact with people who have self-published.

The self-publishing journey was an educating experience. It has to be educational because you are relying on yourself to know what step needs to be taken. Through my journey, I learned the most vital part of self-publishing is hiring an editor in my opinion. When you self-publish, you are using your money to get this process completed and it seems like many wrote a book and self-published without any professionals behind them, which is their choice when it comes to where they want to put their money. Some authors feel that the money is best spent on a graphic designer, it’s all based on yourself. I am a graphic designer, which was an area I didn’t have to spend money

The best thing to do is share, share and share about your book! I have been on radio stations and tv news interviews. I have contacted libraries who met with me or spoke to me via telephone, who agreed to carry my book. I have held fundraisers for battered woman centers (due to the related subject matter of said book). I am even contracted with certain stores in my area who sell my book. I learned to get use to talking about myself and the book because once I took a break due to multiple losses of loved ones in a short time, I noticed the difference in sales and interest. I learned to have more self-esteem through all of this. If I can’t speak good about myself and what I have done, who will? I often worried about sounding self-absorbed, but this has painted such a beautiful picture of me to myself, one I never knew existed. This self-published experience has helped me realize that I do have a fire inside of me.

You have to work hard when you self-publish and I really do think it was in my best interest to learn about it. At the present time I would love to try the traditional route. Of course, I now know that many great authors have been denied many times before being chosen and their work being believed in. I would love to see the best of both worlds.