When I set out to publish my first book, I thought the hard part was over—the writing was done, and all that was left was to get it “out there.” I quickly learnt that publishing is its own adventure, full of unexpected lessons, challenges, and moments of joy. Here are the biggest things I took away from the process. Drafted by ChatGPT.
1. Writing and Publishing Are Two Different Skill Sets
Finishing the manuscript felt like climbing a mountain. But once I reached the top, I realised there was another peak behind it: publishing. Editing, formatting, cover design, ISBNs, distribution platforms—each one required decisions, research, and a willingness to learn. I discovered that being an author and being a publisher are two different hats, and I needed to wear both.
2. Copyright and Professional Design Go Hand-in-Hand
Both Cupid’s Kiss and Get Off My Lawn! had professional designers work on the covers. That meant they looked polished from the start—but it also opened up a world of learning about copyright. Who owns the rights to the final design? What about the original artwork, or the layout choices? I learnt that contracts and clear agreements are just as important as the creative side, because they protect both the author and the designer.
3. Formats Are Great, But Readers Love Physical Copies
For both Cupid’s Kiss and Get Off My Lawn!, I went all in on formats—ebook, print-on-demand, and even audiobook. Each had its value, but the reality surprised me: the majority of my sales came from autographed softcover copies. Readers loved the chance to hold a book in their hands, and having my signature inside turned it into something personal. That personal connection mattered more than any digital convenience.
4. Marketing Requires Consistency, Not Perfection
I once thought that if my book was good enough, readers would simply find it. The reality is that marketing takes ongoing effort. Social media posts, newsletters, author events—they don’t have to be perfect, but they do need to be consistent. I learnt that sharing my process, my ideas, and even my mistakes made readers more engaged than any polished sales pitch.
5. Feedback Is Gold (Even When It Stings)
Early on, I received some blunt feedback—about titles, covers, and the work itself. It stung at times, but I also learnt that not all feedback is equal, and the trick is to filter it. Filter out the unconstructive criticisms and consider the constructive feedback carefully. You don’t have to adopt all of it—as ultimately, it’s your vision. The right feedback sharpens your work, while the rest helps you clarify what matters most to you.
6. The Journey Doesn’t End at Publication
I once thought “publishing day” was the finish line. In reality, it was just the beginning. Talking to readers, reflecting on what worked and what didn’t, and planning my next project became part of the journey. Each step has made me a stronger writer and a more resilient publisher.
Final Thoughts
Publishing my first books—Cupid’s Kiss and Get Off My Lawn!—was a crash course in creativity, business, and persistence. I learnt that being an author is about more than just words—it’s about presentation, connection, and the courage to put yourself into the world. If you’re thinking about publishing, know this: you’ll make mistakes, but you’ll also grow in ways you never expected. And that growth is worth every step.