Five things to consider when self-publishing

If you’re like me, your creative brain is a hamster wheel, always thinking of what to do next, dreaming of a new story idea, and feeling on edge if there’s no time to sit at the computer to write. I’ve been like this for years, needing me-time to gather thoughts and plot out a new story. It’s why I love my mornings. It’s just me and a cup of coffee in a quiet space until the kids get up, and then I put my craft on hold until the later part of the day unless plans change. Lately though, time seems to be moving at lightning speed. It’s been a fun, packed summer. I can’t believe it’s almost over. We made so many memories. There was a family trip to France, a trip to Vancouver Island to see family and friends, and I published another book— that lasted a month and two days.
Let me explain. Earlier this year, I wrote Return to Pebble Beach, at the same time I signed with my agent. I had set my publishing date for mid-July, as a beach read, but it meant I had to get my edits completed, a book cover made, all in a short timeframe because I was heading to France at the end of June. 
It seemed fine. After all, it wasn’t my first published book.
However, self-publishing is a unique path because a writer must do everything. Even if they’re hiring professionals, it’s a lot of coordination, time-consuming, and planning. Some authors love it and are really good at it, but it can be mentally draining if it’s out of their comfort zone or the expectations are set too high. We’ve all seen the self-publishing authors who are best-sellers, or the ones who have a decent following on social media. What we don’t see is what it takes to get noticed.

​My point is, self-publishing isn’t for everyone, but those who do it have my respect. They are self-motivated and organized!
Return to Pebble Beach was published on July 22, 2026. It seemed like a reasonable time to publish a beach read. It would give me time during the summer to promote before heading into the fall routine. Less than a month after publication, a very kind reader brought something to my attention that had me cringe with embarrassment. It’s not something I want to openly admit. I hate making mistakes, especially ones that could have easily been prevented had I hired a proofreader. 
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I’m sharing my uncomfortable situation because I want to help other authors either prevent a mistake or give a virtual hug to say, you’re not alone and it’s okay. We are human. Things happen, but it doesn’t make you less of a writer because of a typo or spelling mistake. 
Thankfully, my writing bestie reminded me of how full my life is right now and that mistakes can be fixed. I needed to hear it from someone who knows me. Another author who understands the highs and lows. It’s not easy. It’s why I want to share and give some honest thoughts about self-publishing.  
Here are 5 things to consider when self-publishing:

​I believe everything happens for a reason, and it’s good to learn from mistakes. It will only make an author better through understanding others and perfecting the craft. 
After a month and two days, I delisted my book to fix the errors. I hired a professional proofreader and will republish when the time is right. It’s the benefit of self-publishing.

Will I self-publish another book? Maybe? I’m not planning on it, but there may be a short story or novella to share for my newsletter subscribers.
For now, I’m leaving publishing to the experts. 

Happy writing,
​Charlene