Tough Love for Indie Authors
Sibyl Writing Craft (Verlag)
979-8-89740-006-5 (ISBN)
- Titel nicht im Sortiment
- Artikel merken
In Tough Love for Indie Authors, publishing expert Keri-Rae Barnum and literary agent Amy Collins reveal what it really takes to succeed in self-publishing. Whether you're dreaming of bestseller status, aiming for a full-time author career, or trying to figure out why your book isn’t selling, this book delivers the insights you need. Packed with hard-earned wisdom, smart strategies, and a healthy dose of humor, this no-nonsense guide will help you navigate the indie publishing landscape like a pro—without falling for shortcuts or empty promises.
Inside, you’ll discover: what separates successful indie authors from those who struggle; how to publish like a pro, from writing and editing to cover design and distribution; the real keys to book marketing beyond wishful thinking and spammy social media posts; why treating your writing like a business is non-negotiable for real, lasting success; how self-publishing can open doors to traditional publishing, agents, and foreign rights deals; and the biggest mistakes indie authors make—and how to avoid them.
This isn’t another “feel-good” book with vague advice. It’s a tough-love roadmap to building a sustainable author career through smart, strategic action. So if you’re ready to ditch the “overnight bestseller” myth, embrace the work ahead, and truly win at self-publishing, start with Tough Love for Indie Authors.
Sibylline Press is proud to announce its new imprint, Sibyl Writing Craft, dedicated to providing definitive titles on writing craft and the book business for writers.
Keri-Rae Barnum is the owner and CEO of New Shelves Books, a full-service publishing consulting and book marketing agency. A leading expert in self-publishing and book marketing, she has helped hundreds of authors turn their writing into successful careers through strategic platform building, dynamic book launches, and innovative marketing campaigns. With a deep understanding of what it truly takes to succeed in indie publishing, Keri is known for her no-nonsense approach to book marketing and author career growth. She works closely with both publishers and independent authors to enhance production, distribution, and visibility in bookstores, libraries, and digital platforms. A sought-after international speaker, Keri shares her expertise at writing and publishing events, equipping authors with the tools they need to navigate the realities of self-publishing. Her passion for education and commitment to industry transparency make her an invaluable resource for writers who are ready to approach their publishing goals with strategy, persistence, and a business mindset. Discover more about Keri and connect with her at www.NewShelves.com. She lives in Brockport, New York. With over 30 years in publishing, Amy Collins is an agent at Talcott Notch Literary Services, representing authors across the fantasy, romance, horror, thrillers, pop-culture, cookbooks and lifestyle genres. Formerly a book buyer, publisher, and sales director, Amy pairs deep market insights with dedication to her clients. A USA TODAY bestselling author herself, her works include It’s the Little Things (Simon & Schuster). She’s often featured in classes and articles by Writer’s Digest and speaks globally at conferences. To give back to the writing community, Amy manages AgentsHelpingAuthors.com, supporting writers with scholarships and can be found at amysadvice.com and on social media @askamycollins
Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What It Takes to Win in Self-Publishing
By Keri-Rae Barnum; Foreword and Contributions by Amy Collins
Introduction
Part I: To Be or Not To Be . . . A Publisher
Chapter 1: Publishing Paths: Choose Your Road
Chapter 2: Why Indie Is a Power Move
Chapter 3: Write What Sells (Without Selling Out)
Chapter 4: Genre Is a Promise, Make Sure You Keep It
Chapter 5: What Does Success Look Like for You?
Chapter 6: What It Really Takes to Win in Self-Publishing
Chapter 7: Finding Your Dream Team (While Avoiding Scams)
Chapter 8: How to Build Sustainable Success
Part II: Creating a Book That Sells
Chapter 8: Editing Like a Publisher
Chapter 9: Cover Design That Sells
Chapter 10: Formatting That Works (and Sells)
Chapter 11: Packaging Your Book Like a Pro
Part III: Publishing Like a Pro
Chapter 12: Your Book’s Journey: From Idea to Inventory
Chapter 13: Production Timelines and Publishing Schedules
Chapter 14: ISBNs, Metadata, and Retail Readiness
Chapter 15: Self-Publishing Platforms
Chapter 16: Beyond POD: Offset Printing
Chapter 17: Think Like a Publisher, Act Like a CEO
Chapter 18: Distribution, Wholesalers, and What They Actually Do
Part IV: Marketing and Selling Your Book
Chapter 19: Building an Author Platform That Doesn’t Suck
Chapter 20: Marketing That Actually Works
Chapter 21: Mastering Amazon
Chapter 22: The Sales Materials Every Indie Author Needs
Chapter 23: Getting Into Bookstores
Chapter 24: Getting Into Airport Stores
Chapter 25: Getting Into Libraries
Part V: Scaling Your Author
Chapter 26: DIY PR vs. Hiring a Publicist
Chapter 27: Long-Term Marketing Strategies
Chapter 28: Scaling Up: Turning One Book into a Career
Chapter 29: Ready to Win at Self-Publishing?
Glossary of Terms
Appendices: Checklists & Templates
| Erscheint lt. Verlag | 26.3.2026 |
|---|---|
| Vorwort | Amy Collins |
| Zusatzinfo | Not illustrated |
| Sprache | englisch |
| Maße | 135 x 215 mm |
| Themenwelt | Sachbuch/Ratgeber ► Beruf / Finanzen / Recht / Wirtschaft ► Bewerbung / Karriere |
| Geisteswissenschaften ► Sprach- / Literaturwissenschaft ► Literaturwissenschaft | |
| Sozialwissenschaften ► Kommunikation / Medien ► Buchhandel / Bibliothekswesen | |
| Sozialwissenschaften ► Kommunikation / Medien ► Journalistik | |
| ISBN-13 | 979-8-89740-006-5 / 9798897400065 |
| Zustand | Neuware |
| Informationen gemäß Produktsicherheitsverordnung (GPSR) | |
| Haben Sie eine Frage zum Produkt? |
aus dem Bereich
