12 Ways I'm Turning My Dream of Self-Publishing Into Reality

I'm leaning into the idea of self-publishing my first novel. There are quite a few elements of the construct that really appeal to my ingenious spirit. While the process of writing a debut novel has most certainly tested my patience (and let's face it, that's an area I've needed to hone for some time), it has also stretched my creativity—which is always welcomed.

But if you think writing a novel is as simple as finishing the book and shouting, “Here it is, world!”—oh, how I wish—there is quite a bit more to it. Here’s a look into 12 things I’ve been working on to get ready for (potentially) self-publishing Without Light.

This is a long one, so strap in...

1. Building My Social Media Presence

Creating an author platform felt a bit like stepping into a crowded room, with little to no credibility, and shouting, “Hey, look at me! I write books and you should read them!” But after committing to consistent posts, reels, and interacting with other book lovers, indie authors, and professionals in the industry, I finally feel like I've found my corner in the digital world. My account features bookish content, writing updates, and all the character art and teaser reels you never knew you needed.

I'm starting simple. Just one platform. Instagram is where I feel comfortable. I know BookTok is a big thing, but I don't want to overwhelm myself and burn out from social media over commitment before the wheels even get rolling. Though my presence is small, the engagement is strong and growing. The more focused you can keep yourself on your small corner, the easier it becomes.

2. Finding and Hiring an Illustrator

But Megan, you're not writing a children's book. My debut novel is new adult fiction set in a dystopian world, why might I need an illustrator? If you've been on social media in the book world for any short amount of time, then you've certainly found yourself knee deep in fantasy character art (If I see another shirtless picture of Rhysand, I may leave my partner for the High Lord of the Night Court). Creating a visual world to promote your work is almost becoming as important as writing the book itself. It's a full senses experience, especially in the category of fantasy.

Finding the right artist for cover art and promotional character art was like auditioning for a talent show I didn’t know I was hosting. Thankfully, I found Zayane on Fiverr (a platform for independent artists), who turned my vague “it needs to be shadowy but hopeful” description into a cover illustration I’m proud to call mine. He is also currently working on five character portraits that I will be sharing soon.

3. Creating Character Art for Promotions

That brings me to my next topic.

Enter my obsession with Artbreeder—an AI tool that became my co-creator. I spent far too many hours making sure my characters’ cheekbones were just sharp enough to cut glass. This got me off the ground, but led me into a fascinating conversation with my editor about the use of AI in promotion. Did you know this was potentially controversial? I sure didn't. I looked at it as a inexpensive way to help promote my writing.

Here are some reasons why AI can rub people the wrong way;

• Ethical Concerns About Intellectual Property - Let's face it, many AI art models are trained on datasets that include works by artists who have not given explicit consent for their art to be used.

• Impact on Human Artist - It undercuts opportunities for freelance illustrators. While it is an economical choice for new writers, I have found that a lot of freelance illustrators can be very reasonable. Find someone who's portfolio draws you in, but maybe they are just breaking into the industry. That can also save you money.

• Quality and Originality Concerns - Have you ever tried to have AI create a hand? Enough said.

While I enjoyed creating these portraits, I also value supporting hardworking artists who can capture what my imagination can’t. AI is not a hill I care to die on, but interestingly enough the topic of traditional methods vs. technological advancements plays a big role in my story. My goal is to incorporate both the AI images I created and the artist created images. It's a great way, in my opinion, to spark the deeper conversation of how our world is changing (Just like Sandric), and beta test which will prevail. I've got a feeling they will be deadlocked, but I'm excited to see the response.

4. Learning to Format My Manuscript for Print and E-Readers

The formatting phase was when I truly questioned what I've been doing as I type. I went from writing my manuscripts in Google Docs, to trying out Scrivener, back to Google Docs, and somewhere along the way indention depths changed, hard returns became soft returns (I suggest looking up the difference), and em dashes no longer existed.

Here is a tip. If you are writing in word or google (forgive me if you are not), turn on Show Non-Printing Characters under the View Tab in the navigation. Mind Blown! I never knew it existed. Now I can see all the indentions, spaces, paragraph returns etc. in real time and fix them as I go.

In order to save a little bit of money when I do print, I have a desire to format my work myself. So not only is my manuscript cleaned up for my editor, it will be closer to a perfected file once I have my final draft done. I researched tools like Vellum and Adobe InDesign to create something that wouldn’t scare readers away with page numbers that wander off like lost children, words that no longer have spaces and run together, and indentions that vary from .5 inch to is that even a space?

5. Establishing My Branding Style Kit

Having a consistent author brand isn’t just for aesthetics—it makes you look like you know what you’re doing. This is marketing 101, for those of you who have reached out to say the marketing is the scariest part of self-publishing. I am setting up a branding kit with my go-to colors, fonts, and that mysterious “author vibe” I’m channeling. Write down color codes, your favorite font name for Titles, Headers, Sub-Headers, and Paragraphs. Have a specific style/filter your apply to your posts? Add that too! And now you're on your way to having your very own branding kit.

And don't fret, I didn't have this from the beginning, but it is developing over time as I decide what appeals to me through indulging in the work of all my counterparts. This will come in time, and it may change as well. Think re-brand! As I move closer to self-publishing, this is becoming more and more important.

6. Writing Promotional Blurbs and Captions

Who knew that summarizing a 110,000-word novel into a few punchy lines would be harder than writing the novel itself? I've spent days crafting blurbs and captions, getting feedback from anyone who would listen, and perfecting that one sentence that would make a reader say, “I need this book.”

7. Developing a Reel Strategy

Reels are where my marketing plans and my inner theater kid meet. I’m not just showcasing my book; I’m creating transitions like “If this was your vibe, now this is your vibe” to draw in fellow readers. Because who doesn’t love a good movie trailer quality book promo? I certainly do, and that's what I want my readers to see.

Again, I'm not worried that my reels (as of current) aren't top notch. I'm looking for consistent content posting in the stage I'm at right now. But as we get closer to solid publication dates existing, these reels will be changing. That means taking my time, and starting early to create top-notch content.

8. Beta Reader and Editor Interaction

Beta readers are necessary, though the process can be a little unnerving to navigate. These are unpaid readers you are asking to give you feedback on a book that may or may not be anywhere close to ready. They are angels sent from the editing heavens and treat them as such! Do not skip this step, even if you have an editor.

And speaking of my editor, she is the unsung hero who has caught all my crater-sized plot holes. I started the official editing process after I finished my first draft. If you'd like more info on that, I've got quite a few additional blogs specifically on that part of the journey. More Blog Posts

9. Planning ARC Boxes

This has been a bit of fun I've indulged in. I want my ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) boxes to feel like a gift rather than just another package. I brainstormed items that fit my book’s themes of light, dark, and survival. Expect bookmarks, a cute flashlight, and definitely something mysterious (but not weird) that whispers, “This book will haunt you—in a good way.”

If you are not certain what and ARC box or reader is, give it a good search on Pinterest and you will very quickly learn that you want to be an ARC reader that receives magical ARC boxes!

10. Creating a Marketing Campaign Strategy

Marketing plans should be called “controlled chaos.” I am mapping out teaser posts, sneak peeks, and book trivia to drip-feed excitement up to the release date (even though I still don't know when that will be). Hashtags are now my second language, and I finally understand why people love countdowns.

Don't let this overwhelm you, especially if marketing is not your thing. While I have a background in marketing, there are companies that specifically offer services to indie writers to help them market their novels with ads, setting up arc teams, and publishing announcement posts. Look them up, or even better yet, don't worry. If you are doing social media right, the ads will magically come to you!

11. Researching Self-Publishing Platforms

This task involved a lot of squinting at royalty structures (don't skip the fine print) and weighing options like Amazon KDP vs. IngramSpark. Fun fact: understanding these platforms without needing an aspirin is my new superpower. There are many platforms out there to compare, so take the time and look at them all (or as many as you can stomach). If I've learned anything through this whole process, there is no rush. Take your time, this is an important step.

12. Building an Author Website

I built an author website because apparently, it’s illegal to be an author without one (kidding, but really). It’s the home base for my book news and has a sign-up for my eventual newsletter once promotions get rolling and dates firm up, where I share behind-the-scenes of the process like this post and updates on my journey. Don’t worry, I’ll keep the “read my newsletter or else” threats to a minimum. You can expect an official excerpt soon, along with in-depth character and world-building details. I may have even developed a quiz to find out which Sandric Official you are most like!

That’s the backstage pass to my self-publishing prep! It’s been equal parts challenging and exhilarating, and I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything—well, maybe for fewer formatting headaches and one or two less cringe reels. If you’re thinking of self-publishing or just curious about the madness, I hope this list gives you a better idea of what goes on behind the scenes... at least for me.

Start a conversation with me on IG @megan.a.rockwell. I by no means am an expert... yet, but would love to connect on this topic and learn more about your writing journey.