Self Publishing

Self-publishing is a fairly recent trend, enabled by the advent of digital publishing, where an author publishes their book without being contracted to a publishing house.
Self-publishing is not without its challenges. Self-published authors are responsible for all aspects of the publishing process.
We will look at royalty rates, what you need to get done, the information you need to gather, the different platforms and what you can do to sell books when you choose to self publish.
Key Benefits of a Self Publishing
100% of royalties
Total Creative control
Control of publishing process
Choice of editor
Choice of designers
Choice of marketing services
Publishing with DreamEngine
Please start by submitting your work to us. This gives us a chance to find out about you and your story. We will then contact you for a free talk about how we might be able to benefit each other.
Is self publishing the best option for me as a new author?
As you are reading this, I will assume that you have done the first part, you have completed a full length book. You are now looking at your options for getting published and have found that there are three of those. A traditional deal, a hybrid or co-publishing deal or self-publishing. The first option, to publish with a traditional publishing house is the only one that you do not have control over. This is without doubt the option that most authors aspire to, the reality is that it is very difficult to achieve. It is after perusing that avenue for some considerable time with no success that an author is forced to consider the next two options.
The reality is that there are few difference between the two models, but those few differences are critical. The similarities are that you have to get the same tasks done and unless you are skilled in a wide range of disciplines, you will have to pay people to help you. You will either have to spend you time or money on editing, cover and book design as well as the actual publishing process. In the end it is worth your while working with a publishing house in a co publishing arrangement, rather than doing everything yourself.
The key is to ensure you are not paying to ‘get a book made’. You are going into business as a co-publisher. This is sharing in the financial risk and return of publishing your book. You are investing in the commercial side of your career, and in return, you are getting a greatly increased percentage of the royalty returns and the credibility of a formally published book.
I am a fan of co-publishing because I did it myself. When my first two books went into their third edition, I shared the risk with the publisher and increased my royalty return from around 10-12% to 50% ! This has paid me vastly more over the intervening years than I could ever have received had I stuck with the original, traditional deal I started with.
Shouldn't I just self publish my book on Amazon?
Yes of course you should, if you can! I will layout below everything you need to do to publish your book yourself book on amazon and it is a long list. KDP Amazon publishing is the most popular option with authors. there are other platforms, but Amazon probably offers the easiest route to publication with their Amazon kindle self publishing option. This includes all the tools you need to turn your finished manuscript into a digital book that can be purchased almost anywhere in the world, without spending a single penny.
Amazon publishing services do of course take their cut for the pleasure of publishing with them. You will get 70% if you only sell in the Amazon store and 30% if you sell on other platforms. The kicker is that all the printing cost comes out of your percentage, they keep all of theirs. Bear in mind that there is zero cost for printing or distributing Kindle books and that the majority of books are sold using their (high priced) print on demand service. Be under no illusion that there is no amazon self publishing cost, they are not making a large amount of money out of every amazon self publishing author. This adds to the cost to self publish a book.
Before looking at everything that is involved in self publishing please have a look at our co-publishing offer.
The hybrid publishing model with DreamEngine
DreamEngine is an independent publishing house offering a bespoke hybrid publishing service to new and self-published authors.
My ambition is to make a co-publishing service that is reputable and which works for the author. I admit, it's a challenge because of the absolutely justified negativity surrounding vanity presses, and the difficulty in differentiating ourselves from the sharks. So we have to provide exceptional services and opportunities to prove who we are. Our aim is to be at the top of the list of the best hybrid publishers.
We do not accept every author and are honest about the commercial prospects for your book.
We'll give you the truth, even if it's not what you want to hear!
We will support and guide you through the whole process.
From helping you improve and develop your story to the final edit for publication.
With you every step of the way
I am a director of a film production company, a film producer, scriptwriter and story consultant. We will give you the best chance of getting your story on to the big screen.
Are you ready to explore the benefits of working with one of the best hybrid book publishers?
Get in touch to find out more. It costs absolutely nothing to talk to us about your book, your plans and your hopes for the future.
Please start by submitting your work to us. This gives us a chance to find out about you and your story. We will then contact you for a free talk about how we might be able to benefit each other.
Self-publishing is the process of publishing your own book without the help of a traditional publisher.
I will discuss here why self publishing is an option if you have been unable to secure a traditional publishing deal.
Overall, this DIY option is great for authors who want to have complete control over their books and earn higher royalties. The downside is that there is a huge amount of work involved, alongside a steep learning curve.
At DreamEngine we can support you in your self publishing journey, or we can work with you in a co-publishing or hybrid publishing deal.
Are you ready to unleash your inner author and share your stories with the world? self publishing a book on amazon (for example) is not only a viable option but also a path that can lead to great success.
In this step-by-step guide, I will walk you through the process and how to navigate the ever-changing world of the publishing industry.
From writing a compelling manuscript to designing an eye-catching cover, from formatting your book for publication to marketing and promoting your work, we will cover it all. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a freelance writer, or just someone with a story to tell, this guide will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to make your self-publishing journey a success.
Join us as we explore the world of publish your own book and empower you to take control of your writing career. Follow our guide and turn your passion for writing into your own thriving publishing business. Get ready to share your stories with the world and become the author you've always dreamed of being.
There are many self publishing companies that offer their services to help you.
Unleash your inner author and embark on this adventure with us. Let DreamEngine make your dreams a reality!
Book Publishing Services for Authors
If you have chosen to self-publish there a lot of tasks to get completed. We believe that having an independent editor look at you book is essential and yes, you can tell a book by it's cover! Our experienced team will work with you to make all your work the best it can possible be.
How do I self publish my book?
This can be done through a variety of platforms, such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark.
Choosing the right platform, publishing on amazon, for example.
Choosing the right platform is essential for reaching your target audience and maximizing your book's visibility. There are several popular platforms to choose from, such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Apple Books, and Smashwords. Research each platform and consider factors such as royalty rates, distribution options, and marketing tools before making a decision.
What are the are benefits for authors?
Build your own brand. Completing the paperback and ebook publishing process yourself allows you to build your own brand as an author. You can control your own image and message, and you can develop a relationship with your readers directly.
Experiment with different genres and formats, giving you the freedom to experiment with different genres and formats. You can write short stories, novellas, novels, non-fiction books, and more. You can also publish your book in ebook, print, or both formats.
Keep your rights. Under this model, you retain all of the rights to your book. This means that you can control how your book is used and distributed.
If you are considering doing everything yourself, there are a number of resources available to help you get started. There are also many communities on social media where you can connect with other authors and get advice.
100% of royalties
Self-published authors typically earn higher royalties on their books than traditionally published authors. This is because they do not have to pay a commission to a publisher.
Total Creative control
You have complete control over the content, design, and marketing of your book. This means that you can make sure that your book is exactly the way you want it to be, without having to compromise with a publisher. Authors have the flexibility to make changes to their books at any time. This means that they can keep their books up-to-date and responsive to feedback from readers.
Total control over the publishing process
The process can be faster than traditional publishing. Once your book is finished and edited, you can publish it immediately. Traditional publishers typically have a long wait time for authors to get their books published.
Wider reach
Your books can be distributed to a wide range of online and offline retailers. This means that your book has a greater chance of reaching its target audience.
Choice of independent editor
There are many independent editors offering their services when you want to publish your own book.
Choice of independent designers
Choosing to do it yourself means that you can bring your own idea of your book cover to life, or work with a designer.
Choice of independent marketing services
Self publishing also means you will be self marketing also. Without a marketing plan you will be at a huge disadvantage in the competitive book market. There are many companies offering book marketing or book publicity services. Do they work? That depends!
Book Publishing
In-depth articles on book publishing. We offer a range of book publishing services to all authors.
Steps to self-publishing success
There are numerous advantages over traditional publishing. First and foremost, it gives you complete control over your work. You get to choose how your book looks, how it is marketed, and how it is priced. You can also retain all the rights to your work, allowing you to explore other avenues such as audiobooks or foreign translations.
Another advantage is the speed at which your book can be published. Traditional publishing can take months or even years, while self-publishing allows you to publish your book in a matter of weeks. This means you can start earning royalties and building a readership much faster.
Self-publishing also offers higher royalty rates compared to traditional publishing. With traditional publishing, authors typically receive royalties in the range of 10-15% of the book's price. In kdp self publishing, authors can earn up to 70% of the book's price, depending on the platform used for publishing.
In summary, kdp direct publishing provides control, speed, and higher royalty rates, making it an attractive option for authors who want to take charge of their writing careers and maximize their earnings.
Advantages of self-publishing
Are you ready to unleash your inner author and share your stories with the world? Self-publishing is not only a viable option but also a path that can lead to great success. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of self-publishing and how to navigate the ever-changing world of the publishing industry.
From writing a compelling manuscript to designing an eye-catching cover, from formatting your book for publication to marketing and promoting your work, we will cover it all. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a freelance writer, or just someone with a story to tell, this guide will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to make your self-publishing journey a success.
Join us as we explore the world of self-publishing and empower you to take control of your writing career. Follow our guide and turn your passion for writing into a thriving self-publishing business. Get ready to share your stories with the world and become the author you've always dreamed of being.
Preparing your book for publication
Writing and editing your book
The first step to self-publishing success is to write and edit your book. This is where your creativity and storytelling skills come into play. Take the time to brainstorm ideas, develop unique characters, and craft a compelling plot. Once you have a manuscript, it's important to edit and revise it thoroughly. Consider hiring a professional editor to ensure your book is polished and error-free.
Designing a captivating book cover
A captivating book cover is essential for grabbing readers' attention and enticing them to pick up your book. Invest time and effort into designing a cover that reflects the genre and tone of your book. Consider working with a professional cover designer to create a visually appealing and marketable cover that will make your book stand out from the crowd.
Formatting your book for publication
Formatting your book for publication is a crucial step in the self-publishing process. Different platforms have different formatting requirements, so make sure to follow the guidelines provided by your chosen publishing platform. Pay attention to details such as page size, margins, font styles, and chapter headings. A well-formatted book will enhance the reading experience and make your book look professional.
Marketing your self-published book
Marketing is a crucial aspect of self-publishing success. You can have the best book in the world, but if no one knows about it, it won't sell. Develop a marketing plan that includes strategies such as social media promotion, book signings, blog tours, and paid advertising. Engage with your target audience and build relationships with influencers and book bloggers to gain exposure for your work.
Building an author platform
Building an author platform is essential for long-term success as a self-published author. An author platform includes your website, blog, social media presence, and email list. Use these platforms to engage with your readers, share updates about your writing journey, and offer exclusive content. Building a loyal fan base will not only help you sell more books but also create a community around your work.
An author platform is a valuable asset that can help you connect with your audience, establish your brand, and promote your books effectively. It provides a centralized space where readers can learn more about you and your work.
Start by creating a professional author website that showcases your books, author bio, and contact information. Include a blog section where you can share insights, writing tips, and updates about your upcoming projects. Regularly update your website with fresh content to keep readers engaged and coming back for more.
Establish a presence on social media platforms that align with your target audience. Engage with your followers by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your writing process, hosting Q&A sessions, and responding to comments and messages. Building a community around your work can help create a loyal fanbase.
Collaborate with other authors, bloggers, and influencers in your genre. Guest blog on relevant websites, participate in podcast interviews, and offer to write articles for industry publications. These collaborations can expand your reach and introduce your work to new audiences.
Once your book is published, the work doesn't end there. In fact, it's only just beginning. Marketing is a crucial component of self-publishing success, as it helps you reach your target audience and generate sales.
Start by building an author platform, which includes creating a website, establishing a presence on social media, and engaging with your readers. Utilize various marketing strategies such as book signings, guest blogging, email marketing, and collaborating with influencers and book reviewers.
Invest time in developing a compelling book description and author bio. These elements play a significant role in attracting readers and convincing them to purchase your book. Use keywords strategically to optimize your book's discoverability in online searches.
Consider running promotional campaigns, offering discounts or freebies, and participating in book awards and contests. These efforts can help generate buzz around your book and attract new readers.
Formatting your book for publication
Your book cover is the first impression readers will have of your work, so it's crucial to make it visually appealing and enticing. A captivating book cover can grab attention and make potential readers curious about what lies within the pages.
To design a captivating book cover, consider the genre and target audience of your book. Research other successful books in your genre to get an idea of the current trends and design elements that resonate with readers. Hiring a professional cover designer is highly recommended, as they have the expertise to create a cover that not only looks good but also effectively represents the essence of your book.
Don't underestimate the power of a well-designed book cover. It can be the difference between catching a reader's eye or getting lost in a sea of other books. Invest time and effort into creating a captivating cover that will make your book stand out.
Choosing the right self-publishing platform
Once you have finished writing your manuscript, the next step is to format it for publication. Proper formatting is essential for a professional and polished final product. It ensures that your book is visually appealing and easy to read, enhancing the overall reading experience for your audience.
Formatting includes elements such as font choice, font size, line spacing, paragraph indentation, and chapter headings. Consistency is key when formatting your book, as it creates a cohesive and professional look.
There are various tools and software available that can assist you in formatting your book. Microsoft Word, Adobe InDesign, and Scrivener are popular options that offer templates and formatting features specifically designed for book publishing. It's important to familiarize yourself with the formatting guidelines of the self-publishing platform you choose, as each platform may have specific requirements.
Marketing your self-published book
With the rise of self-publishing, there are numerous platforms available for authors to publish their work. Choosing the right platform is crucial as it will determine how your book is distributed and made available to readers.
Consider factors such as cost, royalties, ease of use, marketing and promotional tools, and the platform's reach and audience. Some popular self-publishing platforms include Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Smashwords, and Lulu. Research each platform to determine which aligns best with your goals and needs as an author.
It's also important to understand the terms and conditions of each platform, including any exclusivity requirements, publishing contracts, and rights management. Take the time to read through the fine print and ensure that you fully understand the implications of publishing on a specific platform.
Challenges of choosing this model
While offering numerous benefits, self publishing, as you have just read, is not without its challenges.
Factors to consider before deciding
Before deciding to go down the self publishing route, authors must be aware of everything that is involved and have the time to complete everything.
Congratulations!
You've completed the step-by-step guide to self-publishing success. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you are well on your way to becoming a successful self-published author. Remember to continue honing your writing skills, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and connecting with readers. Self-publishing is a journey, and with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your writing goals.
Now, it's time to take action. Start writing that manuscript, design an eye-catching cover, and get ready to unleash your inner author. The world is waiting for your stories. Good luck on your self-publishing adventure!
So, are you ready to explore the benefits and challenges of hybrid publishing?
Understanding the Publishing Industry and what it is looking for.
I believe that it is important that every author has an understanding of the publishing industry. That is why we offer the Author Edition in our online training academy. Here you will learn everything you need to know about the industry and how to become the author that the industry wants.
There are many skills needed to publish your book that you most likely do not need or want to learn, such as formatting your book. You will also need to create a cover and there are many technical aspects to this. You may feel you are happy and able to do this, but this is where authors do not understand nearly enough about publishing.
For example, the title you choose is almost certainly selected on the basis of your artistic love of those words rather than giving any consideration to the impact that title, sub-title and the accompanying cover design will have on your ranking and sales out there in the commercial world. Getting these things wrong can kill your chances before you have even started. We use complex algorithms and software to test and rewrite a title to ensure it gets to the top of search strings and, for example, Amazon categories. Take a look at the marketing resources we offer our authors for a glimpse of what is required.
You will also need an editor to work with you. No matter how good a writer you are, it is essential to have an experienced editor to read through your book. It is very easy to think that your book is perfect when it is not.
In reality, if you want to make any sales, you will either have to embark on several training courses to learn how to format your book, design your book cover, be your own editor, and become an expert in publishing and book marketing. Or you will have to pay people to do these things for you.