Writing and Self-Publishing. It takes a village.


As a mom, I am well versed in the old adage, it take a village to raise a child. And honestly… I keep wondering where my village is, because I have three and could definitely use the assistance. Writing, or more to the point, indie publishing feels the same way.

The writing part is pretty self-explanatory. But the rest of publishing process… not so much.
Beta Reading
Formatting
Editing
Cover Art
Marketing

Yes, these things can be largely taken care of with a little bit of cash for some and a little know-how for others.  But,  even throwing money at things will not always make the difference when your book is ready to go to market.

What you need is your village. Cultivate friendships with others in the indie publishing industry. It will do so much for your mental health and career.

Make friends with artists, other authors, editors, etc… not only will you be able to cheer each other on in your business ventures, but you can help each other out too.


In the years since I started publishing, I have made some wonderful friends. We share in each other’s successes, as well as stand in when needed for moral or technical support. I will regularly trade formatting and beta reading with cover artists and editors. I help in their promotional efforts and in turn they do the same for me. It’s that community aspect of it that not only makes you feel like you’re not alone being an indie, but helps you to gain a better foothold into the market with new releases. Remember, you can shout all you want about your book, and no one will listen, but if someone else says something good, people take note. 

2 comments:

Unknown said...

You are doing great. Keep it up. Your faithful fan :)

Katie Salidas said...

Thanks for that Fawn!!!

About The Author

Katie Salidas is a USA Today bestselling author and RONE award winner known for her unique genre-blending style.

Since 2010 she's penned five bestselling book series: the Immortalis, Olde Town Pack, Little Werewolf, Chronicles of the Uprising, and the all-new Agents of A.S.S.E.T. series. As her not-so-secret alter ego, Rozlyn Sparks, she is a USA Today bestselling author of romance with a naughty side.

In her spare time Katie also produces and hosts a YouTube talk show; Spilling Ink. She also has a regular column on First Comics News where she explores writing from a nerdy perspective.