5 Lessons I Learned After Publishing A Book

Don't get me wrong, it's imperative that you do as much research as you possibly can before publishing a book, but despite everything you learn, you just can't account for everything.

Which is why I came up with five things that I learned after releasing my debut book. I hope these things will inspire you as to what YOU can do to prepare for your book's release day(:

1. Reviews are important, but word of mouth is even MORE important

Every great author has had a negative review, so don't fret when someone leaves you one star out of five—it's not the end of the world. Yes, reviews are important—when someone looks up your book that's one of the first things they're going to see—but reviews don't dictate whether someone will like or hate your book. They've got to read it before they can decide that.

But think about it: Most people don't leave reviews. So honestly, you'll have no idea how many people will have read and enjoyed your book. But those who DO love your book? They're going to be the ones recommending it to their friends. They'll be hyping it up for you, and every positive detail they spread about your book will increase the likelihood that their friends and family will read it. That word of mouth is more valuable than something a stranger on the internet posted about your book and FAR more trustworthy because their friends and family know the person recommending the book.

2. Social media is your friend

You probably already know by now that advertising is your greatest ally, particularly if you're an indie author. At least, I hope you already know that. Either way, you're going to need to post about your book. A LOT. Post 1-3 times a day about it, whether that be a reel or quote. Flood social media with the exciting news that you're publishing a book and convince people why they should read it. Then respond to comments on your posts. Interact with readers; make them feel valuable and heard. It'll make them way more likely to read your book if you, the author, are engaging with them.

3. Make a spreadsheet to keep yourself organized

If you're writing a series, you're going to need to refer to previous books in the series to keep your facts straight. Try as you might, you just won't be able to remember everything.

The best way I've found to keep myself organized is by keeping a spreadsheet. Document a character's eye color, hair color, personality, weaknesses; list cities/kingdoms and their architecture and culture; write down terms that you invented that you'll need to refer to. Anything that'll aid you in furthering your book series, write it down. It's better to have it documented rather than wasting time searching for it.

4. Set goals to keep yourself on track

People will want to know your future plans for your author career, so set goals to establish expectations and strive to obtain them. Setting goals and sharing them will also give readers an incentive to follow you and get them excited for your future novels!

5. Optional: Create a website

I've found the best way to keep my readers actively engaged and optimistic for my future books is via a website. It's perfect for introducing yourself to new prospective readers, plus keeping it updated will encourage existing readers to revisit it.

Having an email list is also an effective way to market your book as well, because the people who subscribe to it are your fans and they genuinely care about everything you have to say. It'll maintain their excitement for your next books and give them something to look forward to while they're waiting for your next book to be released.

Conclusion

Of course, there will be other things you'll learn after you publish your first book. In the meantime, prepare as much as you can and enjoy the aftermath of launching your author career(:

Best of luck with your publishing journey!

>> Berlyn Hayes

Interested in reading my books? Check them out on Amazon!

HEIRS OF SECRETS - YA fantasy, BOOK 1

PRODIGY OF REVENGE - YA fantasy, BOOK 2