Publish Your First Book

Do you want to publish your first book but don’t know how to start? Here are 7 steps to doing this.

Publishing a book has never been easier, thanks to self-publishing platforms that allow authors to bring their work to life without the need for traditional publishers.

If you’re ready to leap but don’t know where to start, these 7 steps will guide you through the process of self-publishing your first book.

Step 1: Write Your Manuscript

The first step in self-publishing is, of course, writing your book! Set a writing schedule, create an outline, and stay consistent with your progress. Whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, focus on completing your first draft before worrying about perfection.

Step 2: Edit and Revise

Once your manuscript is complete, it’s time to edit. Start with self-editing—check for grammar errors, sentence structure, and clarity. Then, consider hiring a professional editor or working with beta readers to get objective feedback. Editing is crucial in producing a polished book that readers will enjoy.

Step 3: Format Your Book

Your book needs to be properly formatted before publishing. If you’re self-publishing an eBook, ensure it’s formatted for Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) with an EPUB file.

For print books, formatting includes page layout, font selection, margins, and chapter headings. The easiest way to do this is to outsource to a professional. You can find one on Fiverr.

Step 4: Design a Professional Cover

A book is judged by its cover, so invest in a high-quality design. If you’re not a designer, hire a professional to create a cover that aligns with your book’s genre and appeals to readers. Websites like Fiverr, 99designs, or Canva can help you find affordable cover design options.

Step 5: Choose a Self-Publishing Platform

Popular self-publishing platforms include:

• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) – Best for eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks.
• IngramSpark – Great for wider print distribution beyond Amazon.
• Draft2Digital – Distributes eBooks to multiple retailers, including Apple Books and Barnes & Noble.

Each platform has its own benefits, so choose one that fits your publishing goals.

Step 6: Set Your Pricing and Publish

Determine your book’s price based on market research. Platforms like KDP allow you to select royalty rates, which impact your earnings. Once you’re satisfied with your pricing, hit “publish” and your book will be available for purchase!

Step 7: Market Your Book

After publishing, your work isn’t done—marketing is key! Promote your book through:

• Social media
• Author websites
• Email newsletters
• Book promotion websites
• Paid ads (Amazon Ads, Facebook Ads)

Engage with readers, request reviews, and build your author brand for long-term success.

Self-publishing your first book is an exciting journey but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when diving into self-publishing for the first time.

The fear of failure, lack of marketing know-how, and uncertainty about where to begin can be paralysing.  

The weekly lessons in the How To Become A Self-Published Author program teach you how to write your book, market your masterpiece, build your author platform, and turn your passion into a potential income stream.

For more information go to:

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What Is Right For You?

Are you thinking about publishing your first book? Then consider what is right for you – Self-Publishing or Traditional Publishing?

For aspiring authors, the choice between self-publishing and traditional publishing is one of the most significant decisions to make. Each method offers distinct advantages and challenges, and the best choice will depend on your goals, timeline, and level of control you want over your work.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of both publishing paths to help you make an informed decision.

Self-Publishing 

These days self-publishing is very popular due to the rise of digital platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital.

With self-publishing, you retain full control over your book, including its content, cover design, pricing, and marketing strategy.

You have

• Creative Freedom with complete control over every aspect of your book, from editing to cover design.
• Higher Royalties: Traditional publishers take a significant portion of the revenue, but with self-publishing, you can earn up to 70% of each sale.
• Faster Time to Market: Traditional publishing can take years, whereas self-published books can be released in a matter of weeks.
• No Gatekeepers: You don’t need to secure an agent or a publishing deal; you can publish on your own terms.

The downside of self-publishing are

• Upfront Costs because you will need to invest in formatting, professional editing, cover design, and marketing.
• Marketing as you are responsible for promoting your book. This can be time-consuming and challenging.
• Credibility and Reach because traditional publishers have established reputations and extensive distribution networks that self-published authors may lack.

Traditional publishing

Traditional publishing involves getting a deal with a publishing house, often through a literary agent. Once accepted, your book goes through professional editing, design, and marketing processes backed by an experienced team.

The advantages of traditional publishing are:

• Professional Support: Editors, designers, and marketers work to ensure the highest quality book.
• Wider Distribution: Your book can be available in major bookstores and libraries worldwide.
• Advance Payments: Many traditional publishers offer an advance against royalties, providing upfront financial support.
• Industry Credibility: A traditionally published book carries prestige and validation.

The disadvantages of Traditional Publishing include

• Lengthy Process: It can take years to secure an agent, a publishing deal, and finally get your book to market.
• Lower Royalties: You typically earn 5 – 10% in royalties compared to much higher percentages in self-publishing.
• Less Creative Control: The publisher has the final say on many aspects of your book, including cover design and edits.
• Rejection Rates: The competitive nature of traditional publishing means that most manuscripts are rejected.

What is Right for You?

If you value creative freedom, fast publication, and higher royalties, self-publishing is the best choice. But if you seek industry validation, professional support, and broader distribution, traditional publishing may be the better route.

Ultimately, the decision between traditional publishing and self-publishing depends on individual goals, preferences, and resources.

Whichever path you choose, dedication and perseverance are key to success in the publishing world.

Authors seeking the prestige and support of a traditional publisher may find this route appealing, while those prioritising creative control and autonomy may opt for self-publishing.

Learn More

If you decide that self-publishing is your preferred path then learn more about it at my free, online, live class. Secure your place now by clicking the green button below.

Marji Hill

Author and Coach

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Kickstart For Authors

Procrastination is the silent enemy of every writer.  In 2025 the key to overcoming this is with a kickstart for authors.

You may be working on your first novel, crafting blog posts, writing a work of non-fiction, crafting client content but if you keep putting off the writing activity you stall your progress.

In 2025, with more distractions than ever such as AI-generated content, social media, and an ever-growing list of streaming platforms – it’s easy to get sidetracked. However, overcoming procrastination is possible with the right mindset and strategies. Here’s how you can beat it and get your words flowing consistently.

1. Use AI as an Assistant

With AI writing tools improving every day, many authors feel overwhelmed or even discouraged. But instead of seeing AI as competitor or a replacement, embrace it to your advantage.

Leverage AI for brainstorming, overcoming writer’s block, or structuring outlines. Tools like ChatGPT can help generate ideas when you’re stuck, but your creativity and voice are irreplaceable. Let AI enhance your productivity, not replace your role as a writer.

2. Set Mini Goals

The thought of writing an entire book or even a 2,000-word article can be daunting. Break the big project down into little goals. Instead of telling yourself you need to finish a chapter, aim to write just 200 words.

Once you achieve that, you’ll often find yourself continuing because you’ve built momentum. Setting small, achievable mini goals minimises overwhelm and makes progress feel rewarding.

3. The 5-Minute Rule

If you’re struggling to start, commit to writing for just five minutes. Once you begin, chances are you’ll keep going.

This method works well because the hardest part of writing is getting started. By lowering the commitment barrier, you remove resistance and make writing a habit.

4. Avoid Distractions

Social media, notifications, and endless internet browsing are big culprits of procrastination. In 2025, distractions are only increasing.

Do your best to create a distraction-free writing zone. Be mindful that when writing the phone will ring, other people will encroach on your time in some way or other, you are easily side-tracked by the demands of social media, and those emails just keep on coming.

5. Join an Accountability Group

Being part of a community like the Facebook group Fast Self-Publishing Online can help to keep you motivated.

In 2025, online writing groups, AI-assisted writing sprints, and accountability partners are more accessible than ever. Join a writing challenge, participate in NaNoWriMo-style events, or team up with a fellow writer to check in on progress. When you know someone is expecting your work, you’re more likely to get it done.

Procrastination is an author’s biggest enemy, but by kickstarting with  the right strategies, you can overcome it.

Start small, eliminate distractions, and use AI tools to stay productive.

The world needs your words—don’t let procrastination hold them back and achieve your dream of becoming a published author.

Learn more about weekly lessons on How To Become A Self-Published Author.

Go to:

Unlock your potential and make your mark as a self-published author. 

Join Facebook Group: Fast Self-Publishing Online

Social Media Marketing

In today’s digital landscape, authors have unprecedented opportunities to reach readers and boost sales through social media. Platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and YouTube each offer unique ways for social media marketing.

With the different platforms, you can showcase your work and engage with an enthusiastic audience. By tailoring your content to fit each platform’s style, you can build a robust online presence that turns casual scrollers into dedicated fans.

Facebook

Facebook remains a cornerstone for community building and connection. Create a Facebook author page to share updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and upcoming book launches. Engage readers by hosting live Q&A sessions or virtual book signings.

Additionally, join or create niche groups where fans of your genre gather. Facebook’s targeted advertising options further allow you to reach specific demographics, ensuring that your book reaches the right audience at the right time.

TikTok 

By embracing creative short-form content TikTok has rapidly emerged as a hotspot for creative expression and viral trends. Use this platform to share short, engaging videos that capture the spirit of your book. Whether it’s dramatic readings, storytelling snippets, or fun writing tips, TikTok’s format allows you to connect with readers on an emotional level.

By leveraging popular hashtags and trending challenges, you can significantly increase your visibility and even tap into the powerful BookTok community that has already propelled many titles to success.

Instagram

Instagram is perfect for authors who appreciate the art of visual storytelling. Showcase your book cover, share inspirational quotes, or give followers a peek into your writing process through captivating images and stories.

Utilise Reels to share longer-form content like book trailers or discussions about your creative journey. Collaborations with influencers and fellow authors can also extend your reach, transforming casual browsers into a loyal community.

Pinterest

Pinterest is a visual discovery platform ideal for creating mood boards and thematic collections. Pin images that reflect your book’s ambience, character aesthetics, or the research and inspiration behind your work.

By curating visually appealing boards, you not only drive traffic to your website or online bookstore but also inspire readers to delve deeper into your narrative world.

LinkedIn

Using LinkedIn to promote your book offers numerous advantages. It connects you with a professional audience, increasing credibility and visibility. You can share engaging content, like articles and posts, to attract readers.

Networking with industry experts, joining relevant groups and leveraging LinkedIn Ads help expand reach. Consistent engagement builds authority, driving more sales and opportunities.

X (Twitter)

Promoting your book on Twitter (X) offers real-time engagement with a vast audience. Hashtags boost discoverability, while short, engaging posts keep readers interested.

Interacting with influencers, joining relevant discussions, and hosting giveaways enhance visibility. Twitter’s viral nature helps spread the word quickly and allows deeper connections with potential readers.

YouTube

YouTube offers the opportunity to connect with your audience through longer, more detailed content. Create book trailers, host author interviews, or share vlogs that discuss your creative process. High-quality video content helps establish your author brand and builds a deeper level of trust and engagement with your audience.

By strategically combining these social media platforms, you can craft a comprehensive marketing strategy that not only promotes your books but also builds lasting connections with readers.

Embrace each platform’s unique strengths, experiment with different content styles, and watch your readership grow.

Next Step

If you are ready to take the next step to writing and publishing your book reserve your free ticket now for my exclusive online class and kickstart your self-publishing journey.

Register for free right here by clicking the green button below.

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Come Alive In 25 

Come alive in 25 by setting clear writing goals for the next 90 days. This is an excellent way to stay focused and productive.

A 90-day timeframe strikes a balance between short-term urgency and long-term planning, giving you enough time to make significant progress while staying motivated. Here’s how to establish and achieve your writing goals effectively:

1. Define Your Vision

Start by visualising where you want to be in 90 days. Do you aim to finish a manuscript, outline a novel, publish a book, or build a consistent writing habit? Be specific about your 90-day goal and understand why it matters to you. Knowing the “why” behind your goals motivates you to stay committed.

2. Break Down Your Goals

Once you’ve identified your overarching objective, break it into smaller, manageable pieces. For example, if your goal is to complete a 30,000-word draft, aim to write 10,000 words each month 2,500 words per week or 500 words a day. Breaking your goal down into bite-sized chunks makes it less overwhelming and more achievable.

3. Make Your Goals SMART

Make sure your writing goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of saying, “I want to write more,” specify, “I write 500 words each day over the next 3 months.” SMART goals provide clarity and structure. It’s easy to track your progress and stay accountable.

4. Schedule Regular Writing Time

Consistency is key to achieving your writing goals. Block out dedicated time in your schedule for writing. Schedule a specified time each day for writing.  Treat these sessions as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.

5. Track Progress and Adjust as Needed

Keep track of your daily or weekly achievements to monitor progress. Have a log and document your daily word count or completed tasks. If you encounter obstacles, adjust your plan without losing sight of your ultimate goal. Flexibility ensures you stay on course even when unexpected challenges arise.

6. Reward Yourself for Milestones

Celebrate your achievements along the way to maintain motivation. Rewards could be as simple as enjoying a favourite treat, taking a break, or sharing your progress with a supportive community.

By setting clear, actionable goals and maintaining a disciplined yet flexible approach, you will make meaningful progress in your writing journey over the next 90 days.

Struggling to Get Started?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when diving into self-publishing for the first time. The fear of failure, lack of marketing know-how, and uncertainty about where to begin can be paralysing. But guess what? You can overcome those doubts and achieve your dream of becoming a published author.

The weekly lessons in the How To Become A Self-Published Author program teach you how to write your book, market your masterpiece, build your author platform, and turn your passion into a potential income stream.

For more information go to:

Unlock your potential and make your mark as a self-published author. 

Join Facebook Group: Fast Self-Publishing Online

AI Help For Authors

AI helps authors because its tools enhance every stage of the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to final edits. These tools can streamline research, assist with drafting a manuscript, and offer a fresh perspective on editing, all while freeing up more time for creativity.

1. Research

The early stage of writing—finding inspiration and conducting research—is time-consuming. AI-driven tools like language models can help authors explore new ideas, identify trends, or dive into niche topics that they might not have considered otherwise.

By analyzing vast datasets, AI tools can offer insights and provide references that make the research process smoother, faster, and more efficient.

2. The first draft

Creating the first draft can often be the most challenging part of writing. AI can help break down this barrier. Tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Grammarly’s advanced writing assistants can help with everything from generating initial drafts to rewriting awkward phrases.

If an author hits a creative block, these tools can offer suggestions, expand upon short ideas, or provide alternative phrasings. Many AI writing tools even allow for customisation based on the author’s style, enabling them to create content that aligns closely with their voice.

3. Editing and proofreading

Once the draft is complete, editing comes into play—a process AI tools have revolutionised. Advanced grammar-checking and style tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid go beyond basic spell-checks, providing in-depth analyses on tone, structure, readability, and conciseness.

These tools help authors detect inconsistencies, refine language, and improve clarity. By catching minor errors and suggesting stylistic improvements, they allow authors to focus on substantive edits rather than getting bogged down with technicalities.

4. Feedback and readability 

Some AI tools offer readability scores and analyse sentence structure, catering to the author’s target audience. For instance, Hemingway Editor evaluates writing for clarity and grade-level appropriateness, helping authors make sure their work is accessible and engaging.

This personalised feedback enables authors to optimise their work for specific readership demographics, ensuring that their message resonates.

5. Publishing and marketing support

AI also assists with post-writing tasks, such as publishing and marketing. Tools like Canva with AI-driven design elements help authors create visually appealing book covers, while platforms like Jasper AI can aid in crafting compelling marketing copy for social media or ads.

With the support of AI tools, authors can more effectively reach their audiences, creating a cohesive and appealing brand.

In essence, AI tools empower authors to enhance productivity, refine their craft, and better connect with their audiences, making the writing process more enjoyable and less burdensome. Embracing these tools allows authors to focus more on creativity, knowing they have support every step of the way.

For basic, and free support for writing and self-publishing join my Facebook group Fast Self-Publishing Online.

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Tsunami of Change

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is sweeping across industries and societies with an intensity that can only be described as a “tsunami of change.” Like a tidal wave, AI is reshaping the world at every level, transforming not just what we do but how we think, live, and innovate.

From the workplace to our homes, AI is creating a paradigm shift that is rapidly altering the world as we know it.

Machines learning to think

At its core, AI is about machines learning to think, analyse, and even anticipate in ways that once seemed purely human. Machine learning algorithms, for instance, are enabling computers to find patterns and make decisions with staggering precision.

In healthcare, AI-driven diagnostic tools can detect diseases such as cancer far earlier and more accurately than human doctors, saving countless lives. Similarly, AI in finance helps banks and businesses detect fraud within milliseconds, safeguarding our transactions and improving trust in digital finance.

AI in the workplace

The impact of AI is equally profound in the workplace, where automation is revolutionising how we approach tasks. Repetitive processes that once took hours can now be completed in seconds.

AI-powered bots, for instance, can handle customer service inquiries 24/7, and intelligent software manages supply chains with an efficiency that maximises profits while reducing waste.

While some worry that automation might displace jobs, others argue that it frees up human workers to engage in more creative, strategic tasks, ultimately driving innovation and job creation in fields that previously didn’t exist.

Transformation in self-publishing

As AI technology continues to evolve, the landscape of self-publishing is significantly transforming. What has been trending in 2024 is the growing use of AI-assisted tools in writing and editing. Many authors, especially those in the self-publishing space, are turning to AI to enhance their productivity, streamline the writing process, and meet the increasing demand for faster content creation.

Transforming personal lives

AI is also transforming personal lives. Smart homes equipped with AI-driven devices can adjust lighting, temperature, and even shopping lists according to our preferences. AI recommendation systems on platforms like Netflix and Spotify personalise entertainment options, tailoring content to individual tastes and improving our overall experience.

Ethical questions

This “tsunami of change” is not without challenges. Ethical questions around privacy, bias, and the potential misuse of AI technology are critical to address. The rapid development of AI brings responsibilities for governments, corporations, and individuals alike to ensure that AI benefits everyone fairly and responsibly.

In this ongoing AI-driven revolution, the world stands at the precipice of an era that will redefine what’s possible. As AI continues to advance, our lives, work, and society will undoubtedly evolve in ways we have only begun to imagine, reinforcing AI as the most powerful force of change in the 21st century.

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An Author Platform

Building an author platform is essential to your marketing strategy. It helps to establish credibility, connect with your readership, and promote your work effectively.

An author platform is a bridge between an author and readers, and the broader literary community.

It’s about your presence as an author both in the internet space and away from the internet.

It’s not just about writing and publishing your book. Nor is it about getting lots of publicity and promoting your book to make sales.

Yes, you do sell your books, but you sell books because of who you are and the audience that you can reach.

It’s about your name, your reputation, and the connections that you have. 

Building a robust author platform requires strategic planning, consistent effort, and authenticity. Here are six key steps to creating an effective author platform.

1. Identify Your Brand

Your author platform begins with a clear understanding of your brand. Define what makes you unique as a writer. Consider your genre, themes, writing style, and personal story. Craft a compelling author bio that highlights your expertise and resonates with your target audience. Authenticity is key—your brand should reflect your genuine personality and values.

2. Create a Professional Website

A website is the cornerstone of any author platform. It should include an engaging homepage, an author bio, a blog, and a dedicated space for your books.

It needs to be visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly.

Integrate an opt-in form to start building your email list—one of the most valuable tools for maintaining direct communication with your readers.

3. Leverage Social Media

Choose social media platforms that align with your target audience and writing style. Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), Pinterest and TikTok are popular options. Post regularly, share updates about your writing journey, engage with followers, and participate in conversations relevant to your genre.

Use social media to showcase your personality while subtly promoting your work.

4. Build Relationships with Readers and Industry Professionals

Engaging with your readers and networking with fellow writers and bloggers is vital. Respond to comments and messages, join online writing communities, and attend literary events or webinars.

Collaboration and meaningful interactions can significantly expand your reach and credibility.

5. Produce Valuable Content

Offer your audience valuable content beyond your books, such as blog posts, videos, or downloadable resources. This not only builds trust but also establishes your authority in your niche.

6. Establish a Consistent Presence

Consistency in updates, tone, and branding helps you stay top-of-mind. Schedule regular posts, newsletters, or blog updates to maintain visibility and engagement.

Building an author platform is a long-term process. It is not something that happens overnight.

You start small and slowly over time your presence is established. There is no end to it. 

You’ve got to work at it and let your presence evolve.

The foundation and starting point for your author platform is your expertise, your personality, and the books you produce.

By following these steps and staying committed, you can create an author platform that effectively showcases your work and fosters lasting connections with your readership.

If you are ready to take the next step to writing and publishing your book reserve your free ticket now for my exclusive online class and kickstart your self-publishing journey.

Register for free right here by clicking the green button below.

Join Facebook Group: Fast Self-Publishing Online

Mistakes Writing Non-fiction

Writing non-fiction comes with unique challenges such as the need for clarity, credibility, and engaging content. Despite their best intentions, writers of non-fiction frequently fall into some common traps. Here are the three biggest mistakes writing non-fiction.

Information overload

The first mistake writing non-fiction writing is cramming in too much information. Writers, especially those passionate about their topic, often feel compelled to include every fact, statistic, and detail they’ve uncovered.

While thorough research is valuable, excessive information can overwhelm the reader making the writing feel dense or too challenging to follow.

Non-fiction authors should focus on curating their material, selecting only the most relevant and impactful points. Clear and concise presentation ensures that the audience absorbs the information effectively, without becoming bogged down by unnecessary details.

Lack of Narrative Structure

Secondly, non-fiction isn’t inherently free from the need for storytelling. While it may not require the same plot twists as fiction, a well-structured narrative can enhance a reader’s engagement.

Many writers make the mistake of presenting facts without a coherent flow. This can result in a book or article reading like a series of loosely connected points rather than a compelling story.

Effective non-fiction writing typically follows a clear structure, whether chronological, thematic, or problem-solution-based, providing readers with a logical progression that feels rewarding.

Incorporating elements like anecdotes, examples, case studies and even stories can give life to dry facts and help readers connect with the material on a personal level.

Ignoring the Audience’s Perspective

The third mistake is non-fiction writers sometimes write from their own expertise without fully considering the background or needs of their audience. This often leads to overuse of jargon, unexplained concepts, or a tone that may feel too formal or even condescending.

Readers come from diverse backgrounds and might not have the same level of familiarity with the subject as the author. Successful non-fiction writing requires empathy—anticipating the reader’s questions, potential confusion, or areas of interest.

Breaking down complex ideas into simple, straightforward language, using analogies, and asking questions throughout the piece can make the content more relatable and accessible. Writers should strive to meet readers at their level, without compromising the integrity of the information.

By avoiding these pitfalls—overloading with information, lacking narrative structure, and neglecting audience perspective –non-fiction writers can produce more engaging, informative, and impactful content.

Each of these aspects, when handled well, can transform a piece from a dry collection of facts into an enriching reading experience. With careful attention to clarity, structure, and empathy for the reader, writers can significantly improve their non-fiction work.

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