Best Self Publishing Blogs and Hashtags to Follow in 2023
Are you an aspiring author looking to self-publish your book? Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer, self-publishing can be a challenging process. Luckily, there are many self-publishing blogs and hashtags available to guide you through the process and connect with a supportive community.
By following the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags, you’ll gain access to valuable tips, advice, and resources that can enhance your self-publishing journey. Learn from experienced self-published authors and connect with like-minded individuals in the self-publishing community.
Key Takeaways:
- There are many valuable self-publishing blogs and hashtags to follow in 2023.
- Following these resources can provide access to tips, advice, and a supportive community.
- By leveraging the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags, you can enhance your self-publishing journey.
What is Self Publishing?
Self publishing is the act of independently publishing a book or other written work without the involvement of a traditional publishing house. This means that the author is responsible for all aspects of the publishing process, from editing and formatting to cover design and marketing. Self publishing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to advances in technology and the rise of online bookstores such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Unlike traditional publishing, where authors must submit their work to literary agents or publishers for approval, self publishing allows authors to have complete creative control over their work and retain all royalties. However, it also means that authors bear the financial responsibility for producing and distributing their work.
Self publishing can be a challenging process, but it can also be incredibly rewarding for authors who are willing to put in the time and effort. With the right resources and support, self publishing can offer authors a path to success and fulfillment.
Top Self Publishing Websites
Self-publishing has become increasingly popular over the years, with more authors turning to this option as a means of sharing their work with the world. Fortunately, there are a plethora of self-publishing websites available to help authors achieve their goals. Here are some of the top self-publishing websites to consider:
| Website | Description |
|---|---|
| Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) | One of the most well-known self-publishing websites, KDP allows authors to publish eBooks and paperbacks to millions of readers on Amazon. |
| IngramSpark | IngramSpark offers self-publishing services for print and eBooks, with distribution to over 40,000 online retailers and bookstores. |
| Smashwords | A self-publishing platform for eBooks, Smashwords offers distribution to major retailers such as Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. |
| BookBaby | BookBaby offers a range of self-publishing services, including book formatting, cover design, and distribution to major retailers. |
| Draft2Digital | Draft2Digital allows authors to convert their manuscript into various eBook formats and distribute them to major retailers such as Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble. |
These self-publishing websites offer a variety of services to suit different needs and budgets. When choosing a website, consider aspects such as pricing, distribution channels, royalties, and customer support.
Self Publishing Tips and Advice
Self-publishing can be a daunting process for many authors. However, with the right tips and advice, you can successfully navigate your way to becoming a published author. Here are some important self-publishing tips and advice to keep in mind:
1. Pay Attention to Book Cover Design
Your book cover is the first point of contact between your book and potential readers. It is essential to have a visually appealing and professional book cover that accurately captures the essence of your book. Consider hiring a professional designer to create a cover that stands out and accurately represents your book.
2. Edit, Edit, Edit!
Editing is an important part of the self-publishing process. Ensure your manuscript is thoroughly edited before publishing. Consider hiring a professional editor or a beta reader to provide feedback and make necessary revisions.
3. Invest in Professional Formatting
Professional formatting can make a significant difference in the quality of your book. Formatting includes everything from the font type and size to the spacing and margins. Consider hiring a professional formatter or learn the necessary skills to format your book yourself to ensure a professional finish.
4. Build an Author Platform
An author platform is an essential tool for promoting your book and building a following. Utilize social media, blogs, websites, and email marketing to build a fan base and drive traffic to your book.
5. Utilize Book Marketing Strategies
Marketing is a crucial aspect of the self-publishing process. Utilize a variety of book marketing strategies, such as book reviews, giveaways, and book trailers, to increase your book’s visibility and drive sales.
Following these self-publishing tips and advice can help ensure your book is successful and reaches a wide audience. Remember, self-publishing is a journey, and with the right resources and support, you can become a successful self-published author.
Best Self Publishing Blogs
There are numerous blogs available online for self-publishing authors that offer valuable insights and resources to enhance their writing journey. Here are some of the best self-publishing blogs to follow in 2023:
| Blog Name | Description |
|---|---|
| The Creative Penn | This blog, run by bestselling author Joanna Penn, offers advice on writing, publishing, and marketing books. It also features interviews with successful self-published authors. |
| Self-Publishing Review | This blog offers detailed reviews of self-published books and offers guidance on writing, publishing, and marketing books. |
| Self-Publishing Formula | Run by authors Mark Dawson and James Blatch, this blog offers tips and advice on self-publishing, including information on advertising and marketing. |
Each of the above blogs offers a unique perspective on self-publishing and offers valuable resources for authors looking to enhance their knowledge and craft. Be sure to check out these blogs and follow them for the latest tips and advice.
Note: These are not all of the best self-publishing blogs available, but they are certainly some of the most popular and highly respected blogs within the self-publishing community.
Self Publishing Resources
If you are an aspiring self-published author in 2023, you’ll need all the help you can get to bring your book to life. Fortunately, there is a wealth of self-publishing resources available that can assist you every step of the way. From manuscript preparation to book marketing, these resources provide valuable insights and guidance to help you achieve your self-publishing goals.
Here are some of the best self-publishing resources to consider:
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Scrivener | A writing software that helps you organize and structure your manuscript. |
| Grammarly | An online writing tool that checks your grammar and syntax. |
| Canva | A graphic design platform that lets you create book covers and promotional materials. |
| Reedsy | A marketplace for professional editors, designers, and marketers for self-published authors. |
| Self-Publishing School | An online course that provides step-by-step guidance on self-publishing. |
| BookBub | A book discovery platform that helps authors promote their books to millions of readers. |
These are just a few examples of the self-publishing resources available. Whether you need help with formatting, cover design, or marketing, you’re sure to find a resource that can help you achieve your goals.
Make sure to do your research before choosing a self-publishing resource. Look for reviews and testimonials from other authors to ensure you are using a reputable and reliable resource. Remember that investing in your self-publishing journey is an investment in yourself and your future as an author.
Self Publishing Hashtags on Social Media
Utilizing the right self publishing hashtags on social media platforms can make a big difference in building your author brand and connecting with the self-publishing community. Hashtags help you reach a wider audience and gain more visibility for your content. Here are some popular self-publishing hashtags to consider:
| Hashtag | Description |
|---|---|
| #selfpublishing | A general hashtag for all things self-publishing related. |
| #amwriting | A hashtag used by many writers to share their writing progress and connect with other writers. |
| #indieauthors | A hashtag for independent authors to connect, share advice, and promote their books. |
| #authorlife | A hashtag for writers to share their experiences and the everyday challenges of being an author. |
| #writingcommunity | A hashtag for writers to connect and engage with each other, share their work, and offer support and encouragement. |
When using hashtags, it’s important to use them properly. Avoid using too many hashtags or ones that aren’t relevant to your content, as this can come across as spammy and turn off potential readers. Instead, focus on using a few targeted hashtags that accurately reflect the content of your post.
Need some inspiration for how to use these hashtags effectively? Check out this infographic for some tips and tricks.
Building a Self Publishing Community
Self-publishing can be a solitary and challenging journey. That’s why building a supportive community is crucial for your success. Networking with other authors, attending conferences, joining writing groups, and engaging with online communities can provide valuable insights and support throughout your self-publishing journey.
One way to network and build your self-publishing community is to attend writing conferences. Conferences offer opportunities to meet other authors in person, learn from industry experts, and stay updated on the latest trends and developments in self-publishing. Some popular writing conferences for self-published authors include the Indie Author Conference and the Self-Publishing Conference.
Another way to build your community is to join writing groups. Writing groups offer a supportive environment for writers to share their work, get feedback, and learn from one another. You can find writing groups in your local community or join online writing groups through social media platforms or websites such as Meetup and Goodreads.
Engaging with online communities is also an excellent way to build your self-publishing community. Social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer many opportunities to connect with other writers and engage in conversations about self-publishing. You can also participate in online forums such as KBoards and Goodreads to connect with other authors and learn from their experiences.
Regardless of how you choose to build your community, remember that self-publishing is a collaborative journey. By networking with other writers and building a strong support system, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of self-publishing and achieve your goals!
Self Publishing Success Stories
If you’re an aspiring self-published author, you may be wondering if success is possible in the highly competitive publishing industry. The answer is yes! There are countless success stories of self-published authors who have achieved great recognition and financial gains.
One inspiring example is Hugh Howey, who self-published his book “Wool” in 2011. It quickly gained traction and became a bestseller, leading to a six-figure book deal with Simon & Schuster. Another example is E.L. James, who self-published “Fifty Shades of Grey” in 2011 and went on to become a global sensation, earning millions of dollars in royalties and movie adaptations.
There are also many lesser-known but equally inspiring stories of self-publishing success. For example, Christine Nolfi self-published her novel “The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge” in 2011 and eventually landed a publishing deal with Amazon’s Lake Union Publishing. She has since published several bestselling books.
These success stories prove that with hard work, dedication, and a solid self-publishing strategy, anyone can achieve success in the industry. To join the ranks of successful self-published authors, focus on honing your writing skills, developing a strong marketing plan, and building a supportive community of fellow authors.
Conclusion
Self-publishing can be a challenging yet rewarding journey for aspiring authors. By following the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags, authors can gain valuable insights, tips, and resources to help them navigate the self-publishing process with confidence.
From understanding the basics of self-publishing to promoting and marketing your book, the self-publishing community offers a wealth of knowledge and support. Joining online communities, attending conferences, and networking with other authors can also help build a supportive self-publishing community.
Remember to leverage self-publishing resources, such as books and online tools, to enhance your self-publishing journey. And don’t forget to celebrate the success stories of other self-published authors for inspiration and motivation!
As we look ahead to 2023, make it a priority to utilize the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags, seek out tips and advice, and build a strong self-publishing community. With persistence and dedication, self-publishing success is within reach.
FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of following the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags?
A: Following the best self-publishing blogs and hashtags allows aspiring self-published authors to stay updated with the latest industry trends, gain valuable insights and advice, connect with a supportive community, and access useful resources.
Q: What is self-publishing and how does it differ from traditional publishing?
A: Self-publishing refers to the process of authors independently publishing and distributing their own books, without the involvement of traditional publishing houses. Unlike traditional publishing, self-published authors have full control over their creative and business decisions, but they are also responsible for all aspects of the publishing process.
Q: Can you recommend some top self-publishing websites?
A: Some of the top self-publishing websites for authors to consider are Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Smashwords, Draft2Digital, Lulu, and BookBaby. Each website offers unique features and distribution options, so authors can choose the one that best suits their needs.
Q: What tips and advice can you offer for self-publishing?
A: When venturing into self-publishing, it’s important to focus on manuscript preparation, including professional editing and formatting. Additionally, authors should pay attention to cover design, book marketing strategies, and building an author platform. It’s also beneficial to learn from successful self-published authors and invest in self-publishing courses or resources.
Q: Which are the best self-publishing blogs to follow in 2023?
A: Some of the best self-publishing blogs to follow in 2023 are The Creative Penn, Jane Friedman, Joanna Penn’s Blog, The Book Designer, and Reedsy Blog. These blogs provide valuable industry insights, writing tips, marketing strategies, and self-publishing success stories.
Q: Can you recommend any self-publishing resources?
A: Yes! Some great self-publishing resources include books like “Self-Publishing Basics: How to Organize, Print, and Market Your Book” by Lloyd J. Jassin and “The Self-Publisher’s Ultimate Resource Guide” by Joel Friedlander and Betty Kelly Sargent. Online courses like Self-Publishing School and Reedsy Learning also offer valuable guidance. Various online tools, such as Canva for cover design and Grammarly for editing, can also be useful.
Q: How can I effectively use self-publishing hashtags on social media?
A: Using self-publishing hashtags on social media platforms can help you reach a larger audience and connect with the self-publishing community. To use them effectively, research popular hashtags like #selfpublishing, #indieauthor, and #amwriting, and incorporate them into your posts. Engage with other authors using these hashtags, and make sure your content is relevant and valuable.
Q: Why is building a self-publishing community important?
A: Building a supportive self-publishing community allows authors to share knowledge, experiences, and resources. Networking with other authors can lead to collaborations, learning opportunities, and emotional support. Joining writing groups, attending conferences, and engaging with online communities are all ways to build a strong self-publishing network.
Q: Do you have any self-publishing success stories to share?
A: Absolutely! Many self-published authors have achieved remarkable success. For example, Hugh Howey gained worldwide recognition with his self-published novel “Wool,” which became a bestseller. Another success story is Amanda Hocking, who self-published her paranormal romance novels and went on to sell millions of copies. These stories inspire and show the potential for self-published authors to achieve their goals.