Although my path to publishing my first mystery novel was pretty straightforward (I chose to go the route of crowdfunding), the most important piece of information I would offer to anyone attempting to get a book published is to educate yourself on all the options in the world of publishing. It’s not a one-size-fits-all universe.

I want to share some advice I’ve learned for those risk-takers who venture into the unknown of self-publishing.  

1.     The self in self-publishing might sound like you’re on your own, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. I can’t say enough about how important my editor, Delores DeLuca, has been in my journey to becoming a published author. She has helped me tremendously. Your editor should become your best friend and confidant. It’s a very intimate relationship between you, your editor, and your book. It’s almost like a lurid love triangle!

2.     Not only do you need a reliable editor, but you also need to make friends with the reading and writing community as you launch your book. As a self-publisher, you have to talk to people. Socializing isn’t a problem for me. However, asking friends and family to pledge funds to my book before it was even finished—the basis of crowdfunding—was difficult. My husband and I have many friends we socialize with regularly, so I had a sold base of loyal family and friends who I asked to take an interest in my first book, but that doesn’t mean it was easy. 

3.     Sell your book, not yourself. As you work with any publishing team and the accompanying editors (and their opinions and sometimes brutal markups), it can be a struggle to maintain your voice. During my first foray into self-publishing, I had to ensure I spoke up about the vision I had for my novel so I didn’t lose myself. It was important for me to vocalize the characters I was trying to create and the scenes I was setting for my future readers. I didn’t want to become the voice of my editor.   

4.     Learn to accept criticism. My experience has had its challenges, but I’ve been very lucky with the kind words I received when I publish my first book. However, it’s not always smooth sailing. It’s important to remember (especially after you receive a hard-to-swallow critique or editorial markup) that the words of encouragement will come. It might just take a few more—dozen—edits. Don't fear the red pen! As long as you focus on the reason you wanted to published, it will be worth it. Which brings me to my last piece of advice . . .

5.     Identify your self-publishing goal. How will you define success once you’re published? Authors define success in many ways, so you won’t know if you’re truly successful until you explore what that means for you. Ask yourself these questions as you begin the self-publishing journey:

Do I want to be a full-time writer?Do I want to be self-published to make your family proud?Do I just want to hold your book in your hands and admire it?

Again, I think taking the time to explore all your options is the key to success as a publishing author. This is especially true in today’s divided opinions on traditional versus self-publishing among literati.