What do you think?
Rate this book
Self-Publishing Simplified: A Comprehensive Guide to Producing, Launching, and Marketing a Profitable Book
You’re ready to publish a book on your own terms. The only problem? You have no idea where to begin.Any way you slice it, the self-publishing learning curve is steep. Despite numerous late-night research sessions, you’re still not sure how to hire a freelance editor or budget for pre-publication expenses. Terms like distributor, aggregator, and imprint elude you, and complicated book marketing advice has tempted you to give up your goal of self-publishing for good.
If you’re worried your writing dreams will remain forever out of reach, take heart. Self-publishing might be a veritable Mount Everest of creative feats, but you are capable of making the climb. With insights and actionable advice, this comprehensive reference guide will help you master the following key aspects of the self-publishing
Producing quality print books, e-books, and audiobooks
Crafting online listings that boost your books’ visibility
Establishing an author platform that attracts your ideal readers
Implementing the five main types of book marketing
By the time you finish Self-Publishing Simplified, you’ll not only have the vital information you need to produce, launch, and market your novel, memoir, or nonfiction book. You’ll have the tools to build a lucrative and fulfilling career as an independent author.
If you’re worried your writing dreams will remain forever out of reach, take heart. Self-publishing might be a veritable Mount Everest of creative feats, but you are capable of making the climb. With insights and actionable advice, this comprehensive reference guide will help you master the following key aspects of the self-publishing
Producing quality print books, e-books, and audiobooks
Crafting online listings that boost your books’ visibility
Establishing an author platform that attracts your ideal readers
Implementing the five main types of book marketing
By the time you finish Self-Publishing Simplified, you’ll not only have the vital information you need to produce, launch, and market your novel, memoir, or nonfiction book. You’ll have the tools to build a lucrative and fulfilling career as an independent author.
- GenresWritingNonfiction
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2022
3 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Kieffer
5 books192 followersKristen Kieffer is a fantasy author and creative coach who lives for art that unflinchingly explores our hurt and hope as human beings. A proud autistic and ADHD artist, she lives at home in New Jersey with her rock of a mom and rescue dog Aggie. When she isn’t creating, she can be found walking through meadows, staring at the stars, and waxing poetic about the creative work that has most recently captured her attention.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 4, 2022
5+ stars & 7/10 hearts. I knew, when I first heard of this book, that it would be an absolute gold mine! I first came across Kristen Kieffer’s articles when I was a newbie writer, and her blog was a treasure trove. I still reread her articles to reuse the tips she taught me. While I no longer follow her and stick to her archives for personal reasons of conscience, I was very excited to read this book, and it was everything I expected. In all the articles and books I have read, I’ve never found anything else with half as much information.
The book is carefully laid out in logical order, covering the foundations of successful self-publishing—including defining success, target audience, and mindset—before diving into how to actually publish—walking you through and explaining such things as how to find editors, formatting, and finding a distributor—and finishes with how to launch your book and a detailed overview of marketing strategies replete with tips.
Besides appreciating the host of information and how-tos, I loved how Kieffer stresses the importance of long-term mindset; how every creative journey unique; and how producing art is important for art’s own sake. “You’re a real writer because you write. Your work matters because it brings you joy, hope, or healing—and it holds the power to do the same for thousands of readers around the world.” Her overall tone of encouragement and motivation is very inspiring, and I was neither overwhelmed nor daunted by the obstacles she honestly points out.
If I rated this book simply for use, I would definitely give it 10/10 hearts; but even setting usefulness aside, I found this book very enjoyable and easy reading—Kieffer’s style is clear and concise. Overall, I give this a solid 7/10 hearts for personal use & enjoyment, and recommend this to every aspiring or already-published indie author out there!
Content: d*mn x2, one d*rn.
A Favourite Quote: By writing a book, you’ve created a valuable piece of media. Maybe you’ve written a self-help guide to help readers process grief or take control of their health, a literary novel or poetry collection that will engage readers’ minds with contemplative thoughts about the human condition, or an immersive alien space thriller that will transport readers out of this world for a few hours of fun. Whatever the case, your book holds incredible power. The power to shape someone’s worldview. The power to educate or inspire. The power to bring someone joy. Should you fail to promote your work, you’ll rob readers of its power. You’ll withhold the opportunity for them to fall in love with your book, share it with friends, and call it their new favorite read. Do you see how, in this light, book marketing is an act of service?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
The book is carefully laid out in logical order, covering the foundations of successful self-publishing—including defining success, target audience, and mindset—before diving into how to actually publish—walking you through and explaining such things as how to find editors, formatting, and finding a distributor—and finishes with how to launch your book and a detailed overview of marketing strategies replete with tips.
Besides appreciating the host of information and how-tos, I loved how Kieffer stresses the importance of long-term mindset; how every creative journey unique; and how producing art is important for art’s own sake. “You’re a real writer because you write. Your work matters because it brings you joy, hope, or healing—and it holds the power to do the same for thousands of readers around the world.” Her overall tone of encouragement and motivation is very inspiring, and I was neither overwhelmed nor daunted by the obstacles she honestly points out.
If I rated this book simply for use, I would definitely give it 10/10 hearts; but even setting usefulness aside, I found this book very enjoyable and easy reading—Kieffer’s style is clear and concise. Overall, I give this a solid 7/10 hearts for personal use & enjoyment, and recommend this to every aspiring or already-published indie author out there!
Content: d*mn x2, one d*rn.
A Favourite Quote: By writing a book, you’ve created a valuable piece of media. Maybe you’ve written a self-help guide to help readers process grief or take control of their health, a literary novel or poetry collection that will engage readers’ minds with contemplative thoughts about the human condition, or an immersive alien space thriller that will transport readers out of this world for a few hours of fun. Whatever the case, your book holds incredible power. The power to shape someone’s worldview. The power to educate or inspire. The power to bring someone joy. Should you fail to promote your work, you’ll rob readers of its power. You’ll withhold the opportunity for them to fall in love with your book, share it with friends, and call it their new favorite read. Do you see how, in this light, book marketing is an act of service?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
March 6, 2022
I am so grateful I read this book—Kristen Kieffer demystifies the self-publishing industry and offers step-by-step solutions with real-life examples to show you the way to SUCCESSFULLY self-publish your writing. As someone who is working on her debut novel with plans to self-publish, I felt so relieved after I read this book. It's a must-read for anyone who is interested in self-publishing, whether you're just starting your writing project or just about to hit "print."
March 5, 2022
Kristen Kieffer has done it again with a comprehensive guide book to self publishing in today’s environment and market, making something that’s super confusing into an easy to digest book. This is a great starting point for those that are highly interested in the self publishing route, as Kristen goes through most of the major pillars of being a successful self-published author, all delivered in an encouraging tone. If you’ve read Build Your Best Writing Life and loved her writing style of encouragement and authority, you’ll like it here as well. The book is split into three parts, along with a glossary in the back. First, she talks about the basics, making sure you know what you’re getting into in terms of commitment in time, money, and building proper motivation. Second is producing the book so it can be in its best shape, which means cover design, formatting, editors, etc. Third part is about launching and marketing your book for success. All throughout, she mentions that failure is a part of the process and it’s more about the journey, not the sprint. While I’ve taken courses that have covered these topics in greater detail and heard or read just about all of this information elsewhere, this is a great starting point for those brand new to self publishing or looking for an inexpensive way to untangle the confusion that can be self-publishing at times.
*I received an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.*
*I received an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.*
March 6, 2022
Kristen Kieffer has experience running the Well Storied blog and producing books to help authors, and now has put together a book explaining the self publishing world. Getting into traditional publishing can be difficult and disheartening, but so can self publishing if you don't know what you're doing.
First there is a checklist of sorts to decide if self publishing really is for you, then it outlines the steps to do so, and the monetary outlay that it would reasonably require. After all, this is starting a new business, and if you don't know the landscape, it's not going to work out. In this business, once the book is written, there is an entire process to consider afterward, and this minimizes the mystery of it. Launching and marketing your book is also outlined, so you're prepared at every point along the publishing journey. These actionable steps makes it easy to understand the field, getting a head start in joining the indie publishing world.
First there is a checklist of sorts to decide if self publishing really is for you, then it outlines the steps to do so, and the monetary outlay that it would reasonably require. After all, this is starting a new business, and if you don't know the landscape, it's not going to work out. In this business, once the book is written, there is an entire process to consider afterward, and this minimizes the mystery of it. Launching and marketing your book is also outlined, so you're prepared at every point along the publishing journey. These actionable steps makes it easy to understand the field, getting a head start in joining the indie publishing world.
March 6, 2022
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own.
Kristin Kieffer continues to be the guide we all need when considering self publishing our creative work.
In Self Publishing Simplified, Kristin covers the self publishing process from start to finish. The book is chock full of valuable information like potential costs for each step and tips and tricks. It has motivated me to get back to my work in process.
This book is exceptionally helpful for new and experienced authors alike and I hope she creates a self publishing workbook next!
Kristin Kieffer continues to be the guide we all need when considering self publishing our creative work.
In Self Publishing Simplified, Kristin covers the self publishing process from start to finish. The book is chock full of valuable information like potential costs for each step and tips and tricks. It has motivated me to get back to my work in process.
This book is exceptionally helpful for new and experienced authors alike and I hope she creates a self publishing workbook next!
March 8, 2022
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own.
I am just starting my self-publishing journey and was overwhelmed by all of the information that is out there. Self-Publishing Simplified puts all of that information in one place. It walks you through the whole process from mindset to practical information. I feel much more prepared to enter the world of self publishing after reading this book.
I am just starting my self-publishing journey and was overwhelmed by all of the information that is out there. Self-Publishing Simplified puts all of that information in one place. It walks you through the whole process from mindset to practical information. I feel much more prepared to enter the world of self publishing after reading this book.
June 11, 2022
Self publishing is a complicate process, but this book walks you through it in a easy, honest and friendly way.
I particulary enjoy the comparasion with the tradional publishing since it clarifies the myths and stereotypes of both paths, and gives you facts to decide which way of publising is better for each writer.
I highly recommend this book for anyone curious about the writing industry, writers: publish or not, and even aspiring agents or editors.
Note:
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review.
I particulary enjoy the comparasion with the tradional publishing since it clarifies the myths and stereotypes of both paths, and gives you facts to decide which way of publising is better for each writer.
I highly recommend this book for anyone curious about the writing industry, writers: publish or not, and even aspiring agents or editors.
Note:
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review.
March 15, 2022
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The opinions are my own. Self-Publishing Simplified by Kristen Kieffer of well-storied.com takes authors through the intimidating process of their authentic path to getting their work into the world. The book culminates the author’s years of personal writing experiences and her skills as a writing coach. The guide is useful for most forms (print, ebook, audiobook, etc.) and genres. There is attention to self-publishing’s benefits balanced with equal consideration of the challenges. Clear descriptions of concepts, industry language, time and financial investment, and much more help authors understand the whole of the venture. Quotes, examples, and references throughout the book are used to further understanding. The comprehensive approach is the book’s competitive edge that encourages the author to adapt techniques and practices to their work, preferences, resources, and circumstances. With a straightforward presentation, the book’s devoid of images or superfluous information. Chapters flow naturally into the next, but each can be studied and referenced individually. Self-Publishing Simplified is a boon for new authors looking at possibilities, curious authors who want to know more about self-publishing, and ready-to-publish authors who, upon studying the book, make an informed decision about whether the choice is right for them. The self-publishing process just got a whole lot less overwhelming and much more empowering.
March 20, 2022
Self-Publishing Simplified by Kristen Kieffer is a real gift to the beginning or wannabe author! The book helped me examine all the factors required to decide whether to go fully DIY at no cost, to work towards being picked up by a large publishing house or something in between. So many questions and what a lot of thinking will be required to navigate the self-publishing road successfully . . . but, despite this I didn't finish the book feeling discouraged, just fortunate to have found a guide to feeling confident that I haven't forgotten anything significant nor have left important decisions to chance. Now I have a list of some things I didn't realize I should be thinking of and others that I'll need to tweak, success is only as far away as a little (or perhaps a lot of) "passion, determination and hard work".
Pick up this book early, so you can begin the percolation process and not encounter a self-induced slowdown on the road to holding a finished product in your own hands and seeing it in others' too!
Pick up this book early, so you can begin the percolation process and not encounter a self-induced slowdown on the road to holding a finished product in your own hands and seeing it in others' too!
March 8, 2022
DISCLAIMER: I received a free copy of this book without the obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own
Review: Where was this when I first started?
I first came to know Kristen's work through her Instagram posts on writing, and then I bought her first book digitally, and when this book came out, I immediately signed up for the ARC list. And I am thankful for the opportunity.
This book not only gives a comprehensive and detailed process on how to self-publish but also how to enjoy it in the process. Not only that, but it also manages to be uplifting all at the same time. She also teaches us to nurture our relationship with our craft too.
Her writing is simple, effective, and easy to understand which makes it easy to follow. I recommend this book for every writer.
Review: Where was this when I first started?
I first came to know Kristen's work through her Instagram posts on writing, and then I bought her first book digitally, and when this book came out, I immediately signed up for the ARC list. And I am thankful for the opportunity.
This book not only gives a comprehensive and detailed process on how to self-publish but also how to enjoy it in the process. Not only that, but it also manages to be uplifting all at the same time. She also teaches us to nurture our relationship with our craft too.
Her writing is simple, effective, and easy to understand which makes it easy to follow. I recommend this book for every writer.
March 7, 2022
(I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own.)
I love Kristen's writing - she is able to take concepts and break them down into relatable, easy to tackle, understandable steps. I love her blog and so was really excited to read her book. As someone who is overwhelmed by the idea of self-publishing, Kristen is able to break it down into manageable ideas with steps that seem doable, taking the guesswork and uncertainty out of the process. The book is well laid out and very logical in how it takes you step by step on how to self-publish your work. You can self-publish and launch it into the world and cross your fingers it goes well OR you can take the time, read and do what Kristen suggests and feel like you are prepared and in charge when you release your story!
Well worth the investment!
I love Kristen's writing - she is able to take concepts and break them down into relatable, easy to tackle, understandable steps. I love her blog and so was really excited to read her book. As someone who is overwhelmed by the idea of self-publishing, Kristen is able to break it down into manageable ideas with steps that seem doable, taking the guesswork and uncertainty out of the process. The book is well laid out and very logical in how it takes you step by step on how to self-publish your work. You can self-publish and launch it into the world and cross your fingers it goes well OR you can take the time, read and do what Kristen suggests and feel like you are prepared and in charge when you release your story!
Well worth the investment!
March 11, 2022
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own.
Kristen Kieffer has shown to be a great mentor with each passing day through her podcasts and now with the recently launched self- publishing simplified. A book of it's taste and you can't get enough of it especially for new writers like me seeking a way into the industry when you're struggling to move forward.
Self-publishing simplified entails everything that both new and old writers need from the start to the end step of their writing journey. I look forward to getting more from her and I highly recommend this book to anyone yet to explore what's in them
Kristen Kieffer has shown to be a great mentor with each passing day through her podcasts and now with the recently launched self- publishing simplified. A book of it's taste and you can't get enough of it especially for new writers like me seeking a way into the industry when you're struggling to move forward.
Self-publishing simplified entails everything that both new and old writers need from the start to the end step of their writing journey. I look forward to getting more from her and I highly recommend this book to anyone yet to explore what's in them
April 2, 2022
Kieffer has created a self-publishing guide that is not only useful, but entertaining. She delves into the psyche of the writer in a relatable way and helps the reader to hone in on what they really want from their writing. It's for both newbies and experienced Indie authors. From someone who has read lots of craft books, and marketing books for indie authors & self -publishers, I'd recommend this original guide for all levels of writer.
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. These opinions are my own, however, I will be buying the print copy for my shel :) It'll be handy to dip in and out of!
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. These opinions are my own, however, I will be buying the print copy for my shel :) It'll be handy to dip in and out of!
March 10, 2022
Self-Publishing Simplified is the A-to-Z guide for all new writers who wish to self-publish their book.
This book acts as the cane as we walk through the unknown territories of the self-publishing industry.
The author, Kristen Kieffer, guides you through the steps to self-publish your book and encourages you to enjoy the journey you go through.
Highly recommend this book to whoever is looking for an in-depth yet simple guide to self-publishing.
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The above opinions are my own.
This book acts as the cane as we walk through the unknown territories of the self-publishing industry.
The author, Kristen Kieffer, guides you through the steps to self-publish your book and encourages you to enjoy the journey you go through.
Highly recommend this book to whoever is looking for an in-depth yet simple guide to self-publishing.
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The above opinions are my own.
March 8, 2022
I am currently writing my first novels and found the information included both inspiring and educational. Kristen covers all the steps you have thought of, as well as a few that you may not have.
It is suitable not only for those who have never published, but those writers who are further down the path.
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The opinions are my own, although dear reader - I also bought the book ;0)
It is suitable not only for those who have never published, but those writers who are further down the path.
I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The opinions are my own, although dear reader - I also bought the book ;0)
March 3, 2022
I'm so impressed with the comprehensiveness of this guide. This will save hours of research time for authors. We don't know what we don't know when we start on new endeavors. This honest and straight forward guide will step an author through many decisions and scary tightropes towards publishing. I will reference several sections many times.
March 8, 2022
I am proud to have been part of the beta team for this book, and I can confidently say it was then a very helpful text that demystified the process and made it seem accessible and not so overwhelming; and in the subsequent revisions up until this final form it has only gotten better.
December 31, 2022
Note: I received a free copy of this book without obligation to leave a review. The following opinions are my own.
This book is phenomenal! I'd like to take a moment to appreciate the amount of care taken and how detailed it is. This book has been super helpful in my own journey. I loved how detailed and inspiring it was, and how it broke down something that initially felt so scary for me.
I definitely recommend
This book is phenomenal! I'd like to take a moment to appreciate the amount of care taken and how detailed it is. This book has been super helpful in my own journey. I loved how detailed and inspiring it was, and how it broke down something that initially felt so scary for me.
I definitely recommend
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews