How to Self-Publish Books and Produce Audiobooks

Self-publishing a book can be quite the learning curve, but it has become a popular and accessible way for authors to publish their books without relying on traditional publishing houses. Many authors aim to be published traditionally, but self-publishing gives you an alternative that is quicker (traditional publishers take their time) and leaves the author with more control over the creative look and feel of the book. Not to mention you will earn more royalties in general as a self-published author.

The self-publishing landscape offers unique opportunities by allowing authors to create their own stories and decide when and how to publish. Whether you are a first-time author or an experienced writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this guide gives the essential steps and considerations for what is ahead of you should you decide to self-publish.

What You Need to Know about Self-Publishing

Self-publishing means you are in charge of the entire publishing process, from writing and editing to design, printing, and marketing. This approach gives you full creative control and a larger share of the profits, but it also requires you to manage every aspect of the book’s production and distribution, all of which is time consuming. Having said that, self-publishing is also rewarding, and not monetary alone, it is the people you meet along the way that is the most rewarding part.

Here are some key self-publishing tips authors should keep in mind:

• Research the market: Understand your target audience and what genres or topics are popular. For example, if you want young adult readers, then check this genre out for what is popular, what do covers look like, what you should or shouldn't you write about? There are many things to consider.

• Prepare a professional manuscript: There is software available to help you prepare your manuscript, but for me, Microsoft Word works well enough. Editing and proofreading are also crucial to ensure your book meets the standards readers expect.

• Design matters: Invest in a professional cover design and interior layout to attract readers. For my book covers, I used a graphic designer, although Canva now has some good templates for books. For the interior I use Vellum - finding this software good at formatting books. I do not use AI to generate book covers, it's not a good idea with all the negative media around AI generated images.

• Choose the right publishing platform: Options include Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital and Lulu. There may be other options too, do some research on platforms and decide which one/s work for you. You can use Amazon KDP and be exclusive to them, but check out going wide with the other platforms. I have tried doing both exclusive and wide, but have found Amazon to be the largest seller of ebooks. For now, some of my books are exclusive to them.

• Plan your marketing strategy: Use social media, book launches, and local events to promote your book. I use a combination of Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and Pinterest to promote my books. I also do many in-person events with Sydney Authors Inked, I am a founding member of this group and we do free events for readers, authors and publishers.

  
  

By following these tips, speaking with other authors and learning from them, and putting yourself out there, you can increase your chances of success and create a story that resonates with readers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Publishing

Many aspiring authors are overwhelmed by self-publishing at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process easier. Here’s a practical guide to help you get started:

1. Write and Edit Your Manuscript

Sit down and write. This may seem obvious but we all know life happens, so doing this can be harder than it seems. Start by giving yourself time to write your first draft. Once finished, you will feel like the hardest part is done. Well, not quite. I have written several drafts for my books and I don't send them out to beta readers or my writer colleagues for feedback until I am happy with the final draft. Revising your manuscript multiple times will improve clarity, flow, and sentence structure. Although there is a cost, hiring a professional editor is recommended as they can see things you and your readers may miss.

2. Design Your Book

I used a graphic designer for all of my book covers and I do recommend you hire a professional artist who has worked with books, it will be worth it. A compelling cover is essential for attracting readers. Also, format the interior of your book for print and digital versions, ensuring readability and consistency. I use software called Vellum for MAC (PC version also available) and have found this good for formatting my manuscripts. Do your own research to find formatting software that suits your needs.

3. Obtain an ISBN and Barcode

In Australia, you can purchase ISBNs from Thorpe-Bowker. An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is necessary for distribution and sales tracking. The barcode, which includes the ISBN, is printed on the back cover. You can find barcode generating sites like Barcode Tec-IT online. Again do your research and find one that suits you. Your graphic designer will be able to do a full front and back cover and add the barcode to the back cover. Amazon KDP has a template showing where to place the barcode.

4. Choose Your Publishing Platform

Decide whether you want to publish as an eBook, print book, or both. Popular platforms include:

• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): Offers global reach and print-on-demand services. https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/ All sites will require tax information, follow the steps for each site that you decide to open an account with.

• IngramSpark: Provides wide distribution to bookstores and libraries. https://www.ingramspark.com/

• Lulu: https://www.lulu.com/

• Draft2Digital: https://draft2digital.com/

All of the above have similar processes, but I have found Amazon KDP to be the best for my needs. I do have some of my books on the other sites, but most of my sales come from Amazon.

5. Upload and Publish

Each platform has their own guidelines, so follow each site's guidelines to upload your files, set pricing, and select distribution channels. Double-check all details before hitting publish. As I mentioned before, there is a learning curve in self-publishing your books, so take your time and follow instructions of each site. And don't forget to ask questions, the sites' helpdesk and FAQs are great if you become stuck.

6. Market Your Book

Create a marketing plan that includes social media promotion, book signings, and reaching out to book bloggers and reviewers. Building an author website and mailing list can also help maintain reader engagement. This blog you are reading is on my WIX website, which I found easy to use and their helpdesk has been great over the years. Again, find what suits you. I use a combination of Instagram, Threads, Facebook and Pinterest along with promoting events and books on my website. Also, all of the in-person events I have done with Sydney Authors Inked have meant I am able to sell my print books direct. I have a shop on this website as well. Shop at Writing Rite by Maria P Frino.

By following the above six steps, you can confidently navigate the self-publishing process and bring your book to readers locally and globally.

A social post for Fame & Other Disasters I used for Instagram, Threads & Facebook.

Distribution and Marketing Strategies for Authors

Many authors (me included) find the distribution and marketing of books the hardest part of the whole process. Getting your book into readers’ hands requires effective distribution and marketing. Here are some strategies that have helped me:

Distribution Channels

• Online Retailers: Amazon, Booktopia, Barnes & Noble, and other online bookstores.

• Online Audio Sites: Audiobook retailers like Audible, Spotify, Everand, Audiobooks.com, and more is where you are able to sell your audiobook if you have published one.

• Local Bookstores: Approach independent bookstores for consignment or wholesale deals. Keep in mind that like any business, bookstores have overheads and they will want a minimum 40% of the price of your book.

• Libraries: Register your book with the National Library of your area and go to your local libraries with copies of your book/s asking them to add them to their shelves.

• Events and Festivals: Participate in literary festivals and book fairs. Under the banner of Sydney Authors Inked https://sydneyauthorsinked.wordpress.com/, we do free book events - author interviews, book panels and book readings. Free tickets are available through Humanitix or Eventbrite. Keep an eye on our website for event dates and times.

Producing an Audiobook

I'll start by saying audiobook production is expensive. If your books are selling well as print and ebooks, then keep doing this. But, if you're like me and want to give audiobooks a go, then here are the steps I took to make this a reality:

• Produce the print and ebook versions first

• Choose your most popular book to produce as an audiobook

• For me, Fame & Other Disasters was the story I wanted to share as an audio version

• Choose where you will produce your audiobook. Audio engineers and audiobook producers can be found online. I found one locally - Everland Studios.

• Choose a narrator. You may have someone you know who is able to do this for you or the studio you decide on may have narrators on their books. I was lucky enough to know an actor who agreed to voice my book, Suzanne Pereira, you can listen to a preview of how Suzanne brought my characters to life.

• How do you have your audiobook distributed? I already had an account with Author's Republic ,an online company that distributes audiobooks, among other things. You are able to hire a narrator from this site too.

You will also have to provide the narrator with a script of your story. This will make it easier for them to read from their tablet. If you choose to go through an audiobook producer like Author's Republic, they may do this prep for you. Having produced my audiobook myself, I had control over what was being recorded. Ben at Everland Studios followed Author's Republic's guidelines so well, I was able to upload my files twenty-four hours after I submitted my request. Within a week, most of the audio sites had Fame & Other Disasters audio version for sale.

Like I said, it was an expensive experiment, but I am hoping readers (and listeners) enjoy my story about two female TV hosts (who are friends), have a very public fight over social media. Will you be on TeamMolly or TeamEmma?

Front cover of audiobook for Fame & Other Disasters

Marketing Tips

• Social Media: Use the social media platforms you are comfortable with. As I mentioned before I have found Instagram, Threads, Facebook and Pinterest work for me.

• Author Website: Create a professional site with a blog, book details, and contact information. I recommend WIX, but there are other website builders, just do your own research.

• Email Newsletter: Collect emails to keep readers informed about new releases and events. I have done this in the past, but now I prefer to market in-person or on social media.

• Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage readers to leave reviews on your website, Amazon and Goodreads. I enjoy it when readers email or text me their reviews and I add these to my website reviews page. Encouraging readers to leave reviews really does help self-published authors sell more books.

• Local Media: Reach out to newspapers, radio stations, and podcasts for interviews. Television stations are a little harder to reach, even when a story is set in TV like mine is.

  You will find some of my interviews on my two review pages, see link above.

Final Thoughts on Your Publishing Journey

Everyone's experience with writing and publishing is different. No matter whether you choose to self-publish or take the traditional route, you need to put the work into it. Self-publishing empowers authors to share their stories on their own terms. By understanding the process, budgeting to your needs, applying effective marketing strategies, and following your passion, you can successfully publish your book. However, it takes time. I have been publishing for over ten years and it is only now I am seeing results. If you are passionate about be a published author, you will succeed... in time.

If you want to learn more about how to self publish your book and explore detailed resources, consider visiting author websites, contacting other authors about collaborations, and joining author communities. Remember, persistence, having a tough skin when things go wrong, and writing regularly are key to making your self-publishing journey rewarding. Also, ignore any negative reviews, not everyone is going to like your style. Focus on the rewards instead.

Start today, and bring your book to life with confidence and creativity!

Sydney Authors Inked helps writers to navigate the publishing world.

Even if you only publish one book, you are an author. I was only ever going to publish my debut, The Decision They Made, but once I began writing, many other stories started to flow. My passion is writing and it found me, something I am grateful for.

I wish you luck with publishing your stories and hope you will try audiobook production at some stage. Audiobooks are a convenient way to read stories when you don't have a book handy.

Happy reading (and writing)

Maria P Frino