Writing + Self Publishing Tips By Anna McAuley | Cessation Blog Tour

Hiii friendssss!! This week I'm excited to say I have an author on the blog. She is releasing the third and last book in her Continuing forever trilogy and as part of her book tour, she's doing a little guest post. :) She's talking about self-publishing which I honestly know nothing about so maybe I'll learn something too haha.

 Hello, friends!

My name is Anna, and I am thrilled to be guest-posting on Nabila’s blog today as part of my release tour.  

I blog at Lethologica (currently under construction), and I am the author of the Continuing Forever trilogy.  I started writing the first book a few Novembers ago at the age of fifteen.  Since then, I’ve written two more books and self-published two (and am currently publishing the third and final installment!).

    

       That’s what I’m talking about today: self-publishing.

It seems scary when you first think of it, I know.  When I first toyed with the idea of self-publishing my books, I had no idea what to do or where to begin.  However, I played with it and figured it out as I went… and it’s turned out pretty well for the most part!  The entire process has definitely involved some trial and error, but overall, self-publishing has worked exceedingly well for me at this point in my life.  I’m very happy that I chose this path and would highly recommend it if you have a book you’re considering publishing!

That being said, there are definitely a few things you need to know before diving into the great wide wonderful (though often confusing) world of self-publishing.

1. Research.  You will need to research everything before you make decisions involving your books.  To some, this may seem obvious, but I’m serious: Look into all of your options before deciding on one.  This applies to publishing platforms, marketing strategies, formatting tips, and pretty much everything else.  One idea might be the “norm”, but there could be an option that’s an even better choice for you and your book.  Look into all aspects of the process carefully, and, when you can, get advice from someone who’s “been there, done that” and has used a product/method/platform that you are considering.
2. Community.  Firstly, when you announce that you’re publishing your own book, your family and friends are going to be excited- and more than likely, they’re going to want to help out if they can.  Use their generosity and interest!  Beta-readers/proofreaders.  Advanced readers.  Cover design/formatting help.  Marketing strategist.  Graphic designer.  These are all roles that your family and friends may be able to help fill so that the burden doesn’t fall solely onto your shoulders.  Secondly, be sure to reach out to other self-published authors!  Be involved in the writing community (online or local or other) as much as possible; believe me, it’s one of the best parts of being an author!
3. Determination.  This is by far the most important.  If you’re going to self-publish your book, you’ve gotta apply fierce motivation and determination to this project.  Don’t back down!  Don’t get discouraged!  Be okay with having to try Plan B, Plan C, or Plan D (and maybe even Plan E…).  Know that there will be some learning curves, and prepare to handle those gracefully to the best of your ability!  Apply this to editing, marketing, talking about your book, etc.  KEEP GOING!

  There you have it: a short summary of what I’ve learned through my self-publishing experience.  I hope that some of you aspiring authors find this helpful!  Go get ‘em!

If you want to find more of her/her book feel free to check her out at her website or insta. :)

Have you read any of her books? Have you ever thought about self-publishing? Are you a writer?