Self-Published Books Ranking Well

Self-publishing has become an increasingly popular option for authors who like to have control of their work. The process is accessible and offers many opportunities for writers to bring their books to readers bypassing traditional publishing houses. It was considered a 'cheap' and non-authentic option to publishing in the late 90s but this is no longer the case. You only have to look at the popularity of 'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir to see how far some self-published authors have come.

You can find my self-published books ranking well online. When I began my writing journey over ten years ago I had no idea where this was going to take me. Well, fast forward those years and my books consistently rank in the Top 10, Top 50 and Top 100 books in various categories on Amazon and other sites. They sell consistently, but this isn't the best thing I've found about being an author, there are so many other benefits to being a self-published author.

My books have consistently ranked well -

The Decision They Made - No.1, Edward's Cat Book 1 - No.1, Fame & Other Disasters - No.35,The Decision They Made/La Decisione Presa - No.3, The Shop on the Princes Highway - No.2, and more.

As a self-published author the control over your work is a big benefit, however, this means you do all the work - the writing, the editing (then finding a professional editor), the cover design (hire a graphic designer for this), working out where to publish and then the (dreaded) marketing.

You also need to decide what formats you will publish - eBook, Print or Audio. This is where the expenses come in. Although self-publishing is largely free on platforms like Amazon KDP, it is the professional editing, cover design, printing and audio components where authors need to pay. If you want a professional book then it is important to pay professionals to help you. Audiobook production is expensive and for many self-published authors, it is not an option. I produced an audio version of 'Fame & Other Disasters' but unless I see more sales, this will be my first and last.

Fame & Other Disasters is my contemporary fiction novel set in the world of television. It's available as an eBook, Print or Audiobook.

Selling books is why authors write and even though this is the main goal, it is not the only one. As I mentioned above, having full control over the publication process is a big plus, but I have found the people I've met since becoming a published author is by far the biggest benefit.

The authors and readers I have met since becoming an author all have a special place in my journey. I have made author friends online, met authors at writing groups and I am a founding member of Sydney Authors Inked, a group of authors helping other authors. All five founding members met through writing groups.

Appearing at Sydney Authors Inked free events helps many authors to promote their books. To find out more about this head to the SAI website

Sydney Authors Inked is a collective of authors local to Sydney, Australia. We focus on creating a supportive community for local writers.

Self-publishing may not be for every author, but for me, it was the better option. You need to be in this for the long haul, results may not be seen for months or years. I have found being patient, consistently marketing and being seen at events all help you in selling your books. Have fun, meet people and enjoy your writing journey, wherever it takes you.

Happy reading and writing,

Maria P Frino