From Blank Page to Bookshelf: A Beginner's Guide to Indie Authorship

If you have a passion for writing and stories to tell, becoming an indie author may be the perfect way to bring your work to the world. However, starting as an indie author can be a daunting task. If you have no prior experience or knowledge. In this blog post, we will discuss some steps to take to get started as an indie author, even if you have no idea where to begin.


The first step to becoming a writer is to read. Reading books in your genre will help you understand the style, structure, and themes readers expect. Not only will it give you inspiration and ideas, but it will also help you learn the nuances of writing.


Once you have read extensively, start writing your stories. You don't have to write a full-length novel to get started; short stories or novellas are a great way to begin. Set yourself a writing schedule and stick to it. Write every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. The more you write, the more your writing style will come through.

    


Joining a writing group or masterclass is an excellent way to get feedback about your writing and connect with other writers. Not only will you receive valuable critiques, but you will also have the opportunity to learn from others and improve your writing skills.



Self-publishing is a fantastic way to get your work out into the world. Here are some platforms available to self-publish, including Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (what I use), Barnes & Noble Press, and Kobo Writing Life. Take the time to research these platforms and learn about the publishing process.



A necessary part is to have your work edited by a professional editor before publishing. Even the most talented writers make mistakes, and a fresh set of eyes can catch errors and provide valuable feedback. Consider hiring an editor to review your work and help you polish your writing.



Creating a professional book cover is essential to your book's success. Your cover is the first thing a reader will see, and it needs to grab their attention and convey the tone and genre of your book. Consider hiring a professional cover designer or creating your own using a design tool like Canva (I make the cover in Canva and have it polished with a cover artist on Fiverr).



Once you have published your book, the real work begins. You'll need to market your book to ensure it reaches as many readers as possible. There are many ways to market your book. Social media, book review blogs, and book clubs (I use Good Reads). Take the time to research these options and find what works best for you.


In conclusion, starting as an indie author can be challenging, but finding your niche and genre surrounded by a community of like-minded people will help you along the way. Follow these steps to get started on your self-published author journey. Remember to write daily, learn from others, and never give up on your dream. 

Good luck!