The Bittersweet Joy of Completing and Publishing Your First Book

Completing a book and having it published is an incredible experience, one that evokes a mix of emotions that can often be hard to describe. The feeling is akin to giving birth without the pain and the mess, a sensation that is both thrilling and overwhelming. It is a milestone that not many reach, and it is certainly not a common conversation starter among the general population.

Elation

There is a remarkable sense of achievement and gratification that comes from knowing that so many people want something you created. As a creative person, using words, lines, and colours to produce something tangible that others desire is incredibly rewarding. For instance, the satisfaction I get every day from seeing people buy my books of maps of recreational trails in South East Queensland is a testament to this feeling.

When it comes to children’s short stories, such as the 14 I wrote for my grandkids, the process can be both fulfilling and educational. Each story I write is a reflection of my relationships and the experiences that shape them. It’s a form of art that requires careful editing, and while I may make mistakes, the joy of seeing the final product put to use by children who feel connected to the characters in the stories cannot be underestimated.

Finding the Right Publisher

Choosing the right publisher is a crucial step in the book publishing process. Initially, I published through Amazon Kindle Direct to simply do it. Now, I can proudly call myself a published author, and the thrill of this experience is undeniable. However, the transition from self-publishing to working with a traditional publisher has been both enlightening and challenging.

I found a small independent press that does not pay an advance but pays royalties, which has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The press provided excellent assistance in editing my historical romance novel and provided top-notch cover art and promotional resources. When I submitted my fourth novel to the same editor, I experienced a renewed sense of excitement and appreciation for the process. Writing for pleasure is one thing, but preparing a novel for publication is a different form of work.

The editing process is meticulous and requires attention to detail. From correcting grammatical issues to refining the wording, each step is crucial. Alongside this, there is the task of creating a compelling cover blurb and taglines that entice potential readers. The thrill of seeing the proposed cover art and finally receiving the published book is a moment of pure joy, much like the launch of something you have built from scratch.

Conclusion

Completing and publishing your first book is a profound experience that combines relief, joy, and a myriad of other emotions. It is a moment of realization that your hard work and dedication have paid off, especially when you see your work in the hands of others. If you've reached this point, congratulations, and if you haven't yet, keep going. The journey is worth every moment of effort, and the reward is immeasurable.