Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

Anyone can self-publish a book. But publishing well—creating a book that sells and turning writing into a sustainable career? That takes strategy, persistence, and a deep understanding of the hard truths about the publishing world.

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.

1147136550
Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

Anyone can self-publish a book. But publishing well—creating a book that sells and turning writing into a sustainable career? That takes strategy, persistence, and a deep understanding of the hard truths about the publishing world.

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.

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Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

by Keri-Rae Barnum, Amy Collins
Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing

by Keri-Rae Barnum, Amy Collins

eBook

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Available for Pre-Order. This item will be released on February 9, 2026

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Overview

Anyone can self-publish a book. But publishing well—creating a book that sells and turning writing into a sustainable career? That takes strategy, persistence, and a deep understanding of the hard truths about the publishing world.

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.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9798897400072
Publisher: Sibyl Writing Craft
Publication date: 02/09/2026
Sold by: Barnes & Noble
Format: eBook

About the Author

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.


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

Table of Contents

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

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