It’s no secret I’m a big fan of independent publishing—if it’s done well, mind you—so I’m thrilled to finally be able to interview Helen Edwards, author of How to Self-Publish on a Budget: My Self-Publishing Journey.
Originally from North Wales, and after a decade or more of living in Buckinghamshire, indie author Helen is currently living in Shropshire with her husband, Simon, and her Zuchon dog, Archie. Helen worked for many years in the public sector and has an administrative background. She writes fiction and non-fiction and to date has self-published nine e-books, five paperbacks, and two audiobooks.
How to Self-Publish on a Budget
Hi Helen, welcome! Tell us a bit more about your How to Self-Publish on a Budget.
The title pretty much says it all. I will add that it is predominantly about self-publishing via Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Although I have experimented with a couple of titles via Draft2Digital, I’ve self-published all of my titles via Amazon KDP, so that’s where I’ve gained the most experience from. The book covers both e-books and paperbacks.
How is How to Self-Publish on a Budget different from everything else out there?
In the book I tell the story of my own self-publishing journey, so there is a personal element. And, whereas I think other books on self-publishing assume you have a large budget, mine assumes you don’t. I share low-cost or free ways to market your book.
Why did you write How to Self-Publish on a Budget?
It felt the right time. I love writing and I enjoy self-publishing. Now I want to help other people to get their books out into the world.
Who will benefit from How to Self-Publish on a Budget?
Anyone new to self-publishing, especially if they’re planning to use Amazon KDP. Anyone who has a limited budget. It’s also for non-writers, for example business owners who want to share their expertise. My book won’t help people to write their book, but it will help them to self-publish it.
You know I’m a big fan of being independently published, so I’d love to hear what you think is the best thing about self-publishing?
I’m in total control.
I couldn’t agree more! And what would you say is the worst thing about self-publishing?
That book distribution is solely down to me.
Yes, that resonates, too… So, what would be your self-publishing top tip?
Just because you can self-publish, it doesn’t mean you should. There are books on Amazon that obviously haven’t been proofread and where the formatting is all over the place. It’s possible to self-publish your book without spending any money on it, but assuming you want your book to look professional, you might want to consider paying for it to be edited or proofread at the very least.
That’s some excellent advice right there, thank you. Last but not least, what is the best writing advice you were ever given?
Keep things simple. Don’t get so lost in the detail that it detracts from the story.
Thank you for taking the time out of your day to answer my questions, Helen! It’s much appreciated.
You can find How to Self-Publish on a Budget here (UK) and here (US). Helen can be found on her blog, on Instagram and Twitter (@helibedw), and on Facebook.