Behind the Scenes: What It Really Means To Self-Publish Today - Part 4
Writing is the real reward, publication is just the bonus. In this final part, Joseph Cruey shares his personal reflections, key lessons from indie authors, and a powerful reminder: your story matters, even if success looks different than expected.
If you’ve read this so far and you’re considering self publishing, there’s a chance you may feel overwhelmed or even discouraged. And I sincerely hope that’s not the case. Because let me share something with you: Writing is worth it! Even if no one reads it, even if it doesn’t bring you success. Even if you don’t get traditionally published. Because publication isn’t the goal. The writing is. Being honest, vulnerable, telling the truth as you’ve observed it, even when no one else seems to be willing to do so. If you’ve got a story, share it! And speaking of sharing, there is a quote by the wonderful author Anne Lamott that should be shared here, because her words are eloquent and very fitting for this article:
“I still encourage anyone who feels at all compelled to write to do so. I just try to warn people who hope to get published that publication is not all that it is cracked up to be. But writing is. Writing has so much to give, so much to teach, so many surprises. That thing you had to force yourself to do — the actual act of writing — turns out to be the best part. It’s like discovering that while you thought you needed the tea ceremony for the caffeine, what you really needed was the tea ceremony. The act of writing turns out to be its own reward.”
As for me and my writing? I’m moving forward every day. My novel, The Wraith of Magdalena, was a success in my mind from the first moment I typed the words “the end” at the bottom of the manuscript. There’s something so moving and special about completing a novel. And this moment happened to me before I edited a single word. Before I hired a cover designer or paid an editor to pour over it. Before I sent it to early readers or hit that publish button on the Amazon platform. Before it ever got into a real bookstore. Before I attend my first in person author event. Before I ever signed my first copy. With that being said, what should you take away from all of these authors' perspectives?
- AI is a tool, not a replacement for human independence and creativity, and
should be used as such. - You cover art matters, because it is human nature to judge a book by its
cover. - Writing is the real goal! Publishing is icing on the cake (and in some cases
loads of extra work and stress) - Help is out there. If you can’t manage the entire process by yourself, there
are author support groups. There are other authors that are willing to guide
you. There are editors for hire. Talented artists who can help with your
cover. - Your story matters!
- You should write anyway, even if it “fails” financially.
- Regardless of what route you choose: Self publishing, traditional publishing,
vanity publishing, or a hybrid style, you should take as much responsibility
for your work as possible, whenever possible. It’s going to matter the most
to you, after all.
Joseph Cruey, also known as Ink Fist Joe, is an author of dark, morally driven fiction and a freelance writing coach dedicated to helping aspiring authors bring their stories to life. Through his work on fiverr, he provides blog writing, editing, formatting, and one-on-one guidance to writers navigating the path to publication. His debut novel, "The Wraith of Magdalena" is available on Amazon. You can also catch some of his blogs on Cottagestead.
If there’s one thread running through this entire series, it’s this: there is no single “right” way to be an author, only the path you choose to commit to.
The quiet effort. The unseen work. The persistence when nothing seems to move. That’s where writing truly lives.
Whether you’re just starting or already deep into your journey, may these reflections remind you that your work matters, and that showing up for it, again and again, is already a kind of success.
A heartfelt thank you to Joseph Cruey for the time, thought, and honesty he brought to this mini-series. Your willingness to share not only your own experience, but also to gather and amplify the voices of other indie authors, is deeply appreciated. This kind of contribution (generous, reflective, and grounded in reality) is what makes this space meaningful.
