Due to popular demand (and because I love a good storytelling quest), we’re back on the self-publishing magic carpet ride! Last time, we looked at the big picture of publishing your own book , what it takes, why it matters, and how to avoid the most common traps.
This time, we’re diving deeper into the different types and options of self-publishing: the lone wolf route, the helpful hand, the shared journey, and the very shiny trap to avoid. Each one has its own rewards, risks, and quirks, and knowing which is right for you can make all the difference.
So sharpen your quill, pack a few snacks, and let’s explore the winding paths of self-publishing together… (yes, I will be talking like this the whole way. Nothing will stop me!)
DIY Self-Publishing (The Lone Adventurer Route)
This is the classic path most people imagine when they hear “self-publishing” you do it all yourself.
You write the book, format the manuscript, upload it to a publishing platform, and bravely press “publish.” Voilà! Your book is out in the world!
Popular platforms include:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
- IngramSpark
- Draft2Digital
- Kobo Writing Life
- Barnes & Noble Press
Pros:
- You keep full creative control (and most of the royalties).
- You decide on the cover, the price, and the release date.
- It’s quick. your book could be on sale in a matter of days.
Cons:
- You’re responsible for everything, from editing to cover design to marketing (and making your own tea).
- It’s easy to make mistakes if you’re new to the process.
- Without a marketing plan, it can feel like you’re shouting into the void.
Be wary of:
Rushing it. A poorly edited or badly formatted book can ruin your chances of being taken seriously. Take your time. Invest in the right people. Your future readers will thank you.
Assisted Self-Publishing (The Helpful Elf Option)
This option is like having a wise old guide join your quest. You still pay to publish your book, but you get professional help along the way. Companies either bundle services together or connect you with freelancers.
Popular companies include:
- Reedsy (connects you with editors, designers, marketers, etc.)
- BookBaby
- Matador (UK-based)
- Troubador
Pros:
- Saves you time, stress, and spreadsheet-related breakdowns.
- You get professional support with design, formatting, and production.
- You keep creative control and full rights to your work.
Cons:
- It can be pricey, after all, quality services cost money.
- Some service packages include extras you don’t need.
- Not every provider is trustworthy, so research is key.
Be wary of:
Big promises. If a company guarantees fame and fortune in exchange for a bigger payment, back away slowly. Good services make good books, they don’t make bold guarantees.
Hybrid Publishing (The Halfway House Approach)
Hybrid publishing is a blend of traditional and self-publishing. There’s usually a submissions process, some editorial standards, and a team to help you with marketing and distribution. But you share the cost and often, the profits too.
Think of it like co-piloting a horse and cart: you steer part of the way, they steer the rest.
Popular hybrid publishers include:
- She Writes Press
- Unbound (crowdfunding-based hybrid publisher)
Pros:
- You get professional production, support, and reach.
- Hybrids usually have reputations to protect, so the quality is high.
- You may have access to awards and bookshops that typical self-publishing doesn’t offer.
Cons:
- It’s more expensive than DIY.
- You share royalties, often 50/50.
- Some “hybrids” are just vanity presses in disguise.
Be wary of:
Contracts. Always read the fine print. Legitimate hybrid publishers are upfront about costs, rights, and royalties. If they get vague or defensive? That’s a red flag the size of a dragon.
Vanity Presses (The Shiny Trap You Should Dodge)
This one? Avoid. Run. Hide your purse.
Vanity presses look tempting. They flatter you, saying your book is amazing. They offer to do everything for you. But they charge thousands for low-quality results and you’ll likely never earn that money back.
Common (and often warned about) names include:
Author Solutions (and all their rebrands)
Austin Macauley (frequently flagged in UK writing circles)
Pros:
Your book gets printed. Technically.
They do all the work (badly).
Cons:
Huge costs for poor production.
Zero transparency.
Almost no marketing support.
It’s near impossible to get your money back.
Be wary of:
Anyone who says “we love your book!” and then immediately asks for payment.
Real publishers pay you. Reputable services show you the value they offer. Vanity presses flatter first, fleece later.
Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely, Brave Writer
Self-publishing is an exciting and empowering path but like any quest, it’s full of different roads, secret passageways, and the occasional glitter-covered trap.
Whichever path you take, do your research, ask questions, and remember that the goal isn’t just to publish your book it’s to create something readers want to read and that you can be proud of too.
Whether you ride solo, team up with a guide, or share the journey with a hybrid partner, make sure your story is given the best chance to shine. And snacks. Bring plenty of snacks
And if in doubt? Ask a fellow traveller. Or, you know, a blog post, (soooo subtle, I know!)
Want to Dig Deeper?
Self-publishing is full of twists and turns and we’ve only just begun!
If you’d like to explore more about how to get an ISBN, how to spot a scam, or how to get your book into libraries and bookshops, leave a comment below or find us on social media. We’d love to feature your questions in a future blog.
Until then keep writing, keep dreaming, and may your spellcheck always be switched on
Moor Imagination 