The Highs and Lows of Being a Newly Self-Published Debut Author

Stepping into the world of self-publishing as a debut author is like embarking on an uncharted adventure — filled with moments of triumph and challenges that test your resolve. Here's a truthful look at the peaks and valleys I've encountered on this journey.​

The Highs

Creative Freedom

One of the best things about self-publishing? You call the shots. From the cover design to the formatting, pricing, and marketing, every decision is yours. While that can be overwhelming, it also means no one can water down your vision. Your book is exactly how you want it to be.

Direct Reader Engagement

Connecting directly with readers is something I’ll never take for granted. Every message, review, and comment means so much — especially as an indie author. There’s something special about knowing that people chose to pick up your book, not because a big publisher told them to, but because they were genuinely interested.

Personal Achievement

There’s no feeling quite like holding a physical copy of your book in your hands. Seeing it out in the world, knowing all the work, sweat, and maybe a few tears that went into it, makes everything worth it. No one gave me permission to be an author — I made it happen.

The Lows

Financial Investment

Self-publishing isn’t free. Editing, cover design, marketing — it all adds up. There are ways to keep costs down, but quality still matters. Readers expect a polished book, and that takes investment and time. Without a publisher covering those expenses, it’s all on you.

Marketing Challenges

Writing the book? That was the fun part. Getting people to actually find and buy the book? That’s a whole other challenge. With millions of books out there, standing out is tough. Marketing takes time, trial and error, and a whole lot of patience.

Validation (or Lack Of)

Even though self-publishing is more respected than ever, some people still look down on indie authors. There’s no big publishing house backing your book, and that means proving yourself in ways traditionally published authors don’t have to. It can be disheartening, but at the end of the day, your readers are what matter — not industry gatekeepers.

What I’ve Learned:

• Resilience is key. You’ll have setbacks, but pushing through them is what makes you grow.

• Marketing is a skill. And like any skill, it gets easier the more you do it.

• Community matters. Connecting with other indie authors makes this journey a whole lot less lonely.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely.

Self-publishing is hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Seeing my book out in the world, knowing I did this on my own terms, makes every challenge worthwhile. If you’re considering self-publishing, I won’t sugarcoat it — it’s a grind. But if you believe in your book, your voice, and your ability to learn as you go, then go for it.

You don’t need permission to be an author. You just need to start.

Want to Support an Indie Author?

My debut novel, The Silent Bond, is out now! If you love fantasy books that blend adventure, mystery, and a deep connection to nature, you’ll love this story.

Get your copy here!