If you want to be a novelist, you have to write a lot. If you want to be a published novelist, you have to write a lot and get your book published. There is the traditional route to getting published which entails getting a literary agent to help you get a book published with a traditional publisher who markets your work. You can also try self publishing a book. Learning how to publish a book on your own isn’t too difficult, but is it a good idea?
Many people in the business say that once you’ve self-published a book, traditional publishers will not look at your work. However, there are many writers who have successfully self-published their books. Some are even working with traditional publishers. You have to be self-publishing for the right reason, and have a good strategy to succeed.
Sending out query letters and manuscripts to literary agents and publishers is a lot of work and takes a lot of time. With all that work, you may still never publish a book. It can be discouraging when you get so many rejections. Does it mean your writing isn’t good enough? If you are very confident in your work and believe the world is going without by not having your book readily available, self-publishing is a good alternative. It is also a good idea if you don’t feel like waiting years to be accepted, and you know you can do a great job at marketing your book.
Commit yourself to self-publishing. There can’t be any half-hearted attempts here. Make sure your book is exactly how it should be when you’re ready to publish. When you’re book is on its way to a release date, get people excited. Build a fan base before you even have the book out. Starting a blog is a great way to do this. Getting people wanting to read your book. Choose a publisher that will help you get your book out there. If it’s available online, such as on Amazon.com, you will have more credibility. Most of all, stand behind your work. Keep marketing your work and writing more and more. If you are as good as you think, you just might be wildly successful.
