I Wrote a Book, Now What?

Navigating the Post-Writing Journey

So, you’ve poured your heart and soul into your manuscript, meticulously crafting every word until it sings. You’ve typed those final words of your manuscript—The End—looked at the screen, and thought, “I wrote a book, now what?”

You’ve crossed the proverbial finish line, but as any author knows, the journey doesn’t end there. Completing a book is a monumental achievement, but what comes next can be just as daunting. As a fellow writer who’s been through the trenches, I understand the mix of excitement and trepidation that accompanies this phase. So, let’s dive into what happens after you type The End, Fin, or Thank God I’m done!

1. Revision, Revision, Revision

Once you’ve typed the last sentence, it’s tempting to jump straight into publishing mode. But hold your horses! Before your book sees the light of day, it needs a thorough revision. Polish every chapter, scrutinize every paragraph, and ensure your plot flows seamlessly. Don’t shy away from seeking feedback from beta readers or hiring a professional editor to give your work the polish it deserves. Remember, a well-edited book is a reader’s delight!

2. The Publishing Conundrum

Ah, the age-old question: which publishing path to pursue? Traditional publishing, hybrid publishing, and self-publishing. Each path has its pros and cons, and the choice ultimately boils down to your goals and preferences.

Traditional publishing offers the allure of literary agents, prestigious publishing houses, and potential advances. On the flip side, self-publishing grants you creative control, higher royalties, and quicker time to market, and hybrid publishers empower authors to retain creative control while providing the expertise and resources of a traditional publisher.

Whether you crave the prestige of a traditional imprint or the freedom of self-publishing, consider your options carefully and choose the route that aligns with your vision for your book.

3. Building Your Author Platform

In today’s digital age, authors are expected to wear multiple hats, including that of marketer-in-chief. Building an author platform is crucial for connecting with readers, generating buzz for your book, and establishing your brand. Embrace social media, start a blog, or guest post on relevant platforms to expand your reach. Engage with your audience authentically and consistently, and watch your platform flourish!

Read more on building your author platform here.

4. The Art of Marketing

Writing the book was the easy part; now comes the hard work—marketing.

Create a robust marketing plan that encompasses pre-launch buzz, book launch strategies, and post-launch promotions. Leverage book signings, author events, podcasts, and media appearances to get the word out. Don’t forget the power of online marketing, including email newsletters, book trailers, and targeted ads. Remember, marketing is an ongoing process, so stay proactive and adaptable!

5. Embracing Community

Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but you don’t have to navigate the publishing journey alone. Surround yourself with fellow writers, join critique groups, attend writing conferences, and participate in online forums.

Building or joining a supportive community not only provides invaluable feedback and camaraderie but also opens doors to collaboration and networking opportunities.

6. Navigating Rejection and Resilience

Rejection is an inevitable part of the writing journey, whether it’s a string of agent rejections or lukewarm reviews. Instead of letting setbacks derail you, use them as fuel to propel yourself forward. Remember, even bestselling authors faced their fair share of rejection before achieving success. Cultivate resilience, believe in your craft, and keep honing your skills with each setback.

7. Engaging Your Audience

Once your book is out in the world, the journey continues as you interact with your readers.

Embrace feedback, engage with your audience on social media, and participate in book clubs or reader events. Building a connection with your readers not only enhances their experience but also fosters loyalty and word-of-mouth promotion.

8. Continued Learning and Growth

The publishing landscape is ever-evolving, so it’s essential to stay informed and adaptable. Invest in ongoing education, attend workshops, and devour books on writing, marketing, and publishing. Keep honing your craft, experimenting with new strategies, and pushing the boundaries of your creativity.

9. Celebrating Milestones

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the publishing journey, don’t forget to celebrate your achievements, both big and small! Whether it’s hitting a bestseller list, receiving glowing reviews, or simply completing another chapter, take the time to acknowledge and savor your accomplishments. Celebrate with friends, family, and fellow writers who have supported you along the way.

10. Paying It Forward

As you navigate the post-writing journey and achieve success, remember to pay it forward. Support aspiring writers, share your knowledge and experience, and contribute to the vibrant literary community. Remember, the journey is as much about giving back as it is about personal success.

One Step at a Time

The journey from finishing your manuscript to seeing your book on shelves is rife with twists and turns. But with perseverance, passion, and the right support, you can navigate the question “I wrote a book, now what?” with confidence. Embrace the revision process, weigh your publishing options, build your author platform, master the art of marketing, cultivate community, and embrace resilience. And remember, Atmosphere Press is here to guide you every step of the way, offering personalized solutions to elevate your publishing experience!

So, fellow writers, take a deep breath, lace up your boots, and embark on this exhilarating post-writing adventure. Your book deserves to be shared with the world—let’s make it happen.

Erin K. Larson-Burnett, Production Manager at Atmosphere Press (submit your manuscript here!), is a born-and-raised Southerner currently living in Katy, Texas, with her husband and their small domestic zoo. She is an avid ink drinker who lives and breathes books—during the day, she works remotely with authors around the world, honing and perfecting books published through Atmosphere Press. By night, she crafts her own stories…or at least tries to. The Bear & the Rose is her debut novel.