So, you’ve finished that manuscript. You’ve poured your heart and soul onto those pages. You’ve slaved over the computer screen typing, editing, revising, rewriting. Now, what do you do?
Perhaps you’ve sent queries to agents or small-time publishing houses and been rejected. This doesn’t mean you’re not talented or your story isn’t good. It could be a matter of personal taste. The agent or publisher might even recognize your potential, but sees room for improvement. Does this mean you should give up? ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Maybe the above doesn’t apply to you. Maybe you’ve looked into it and decided the traditional route isn’t the one for you. That’s okay, too.
We are lucky to live in an age where, as an author, we can choose the path that fits us personally. For me, self-publishing is the way to go.
For starters, the royalty rate is higher than many standard publishers. This is because you are solely responsible for editing, cover art, and publicity. You can choose to use an outside source for these things or do them yourself. Sites like Createspace and Kindle Direct will offer a variety of free cover art for those whose creativity lies more with words, rather than with images.
Self-publishing gives you the freedom to do things your way. You will decide on content, formatting, pricing, and cover art. You can decide if your audience will be better reached by print, ebook, or both.
Most importantly, you will be able to expand your fan base as you grow in your craft and become comfortable in your style.
If this option sounds right for you, the best I advice I can offer you as you embark on your journey is: fame and fortune won’t happen over night. It will take a ton of hard work and determination. Be patient, keep writing, and publicize, publicize, publicize!