Are you an aspiring author with a story to share? Perhaps you’re a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing destiny. In either case, self-publishing can be a fantastic option to bring your words to the world. Let’s dive into the self-publishing process step by step.
Start with a Manuscript You Believe In
Before you embark on the self-publishing journey, make sure your manuscript is polished and perfected. A well-crafted story is essential. To ensure that your story is the very best it could be, speak to a developmental editor or beta reader to get feedback.
Find out more about my developmental editing and beta reading services.
Understand the Options

Self-publishing offers various routes, including print-on-demand, e-books or even audiobooks. Take the time to explore these options and decide which one suits your work best.
Professional Editing and Proofreading
Seek the support of professional editing and proofreading. Don’t skip this step! It’s crucial to ensure your LGBTQ+ story is not only well-represented but also free from errors.
Find out more about how I can support you through this step.
Eye-catching Cover Design
A captivating book cover is often the first thing readers notice. Invest in a professional designer to create a cover that reflects the essence of your story.
Formatting and Layout
Proper formatting and layout are key for both print and digital versions of your book. Your attention to detail as a proofreader is invaluable here.
Find out more about how I can support you through this stage of the self-publishing process.
Distribution Platforms
Select the platforms where you want to distribute your book. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, IngramSpark and Draft2Digital are popular choices.
Marketing and Promotion
Craft an enticing book description, engage with readers on social media and consider running promotions or giveaways to boost visibility.

Launch Your Book
When the day arrives, celebrate your hard work with a launch event, whether it’s virtual or in person. Encourage reviews from early readers to build credibility.
Ongoing Engagement
Don’t stop at the launch. Continue engaging with your readers, nurture your author platform and consider writing more content.
Learn and Adapt
The self-publishing world is ever-evolving. Stay updated, learn from your experiences and adapt your strategies to find what works best for you.
Self-publishing is a fulfilling path for writers, allowing you to share your LGBTQ+ stories with the world. With your expertise, you’re well-equipped to embark on this journey. Embrace it, learn from it and let your words shine!
Remember, every successful writer was once an aspiring one and self-publishing can be your stepping stone to literary success. So, take that manuscript and with passion and dedication, make your self-publishing dreams come true. Your LGBTQ+ stories deserve to be heard!
Nick (he/him) is an experienced professional editor and proofreader, specialising in LGBTQ+ writing.
To find out more and to work with Nick, use the buttons above.
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Editorial services for fiction and non-fiction authors, businesses and organisations
LGBTQ+ writing | Developmental editing | Copyediting | Proofreading | Formatting and typesetting | Beta reading | Authenticity reading | Inclusive language training