I have learned a lot about publishing from A.F. Stewart. Hopefully, her advice will also help other people on their journey to a published book.
A. F. Stewart is from Nova Scotia, Canada, and writes speculative fiction (fantasy, sci-fi, horror), as well as poetry. She has published independently and authored such books as the Killers and Demons series, Fairy Tale Fusion, and Ruined City. Many of her stories have been published in various anthologies, including Beyond the Wail, Legends and Lore, and Mechanized Masterpieces from Xchyler Publishing.
First of all, thank you so much for this interview.
How long does it generally take for you from the completion of the first draft to the publication of your book?
It does depend on the book, but the revision process takes 2-3 months, then professional editing about six weeks. After that, up to a month for final proof-reading, formatting, and publication. And if I'm dong beta-reading add in another month. So six months, give or take.
What would you say are the key steps of your publication process?
Coffee and cursing. And patience. Lots and lots of patience. But really, you need a good plan and schedule the time you need to get each step done. And don't panic when something goes wrong, because it always does.
Do you have beta readers and if yes, how do you work with them?
I have worked with beta readers, and I generally set up a signup sheet (Google Forms is my go-to). That makes it easy to keep names and emails straight and to keep track of the manuscripts coming and going. I also make sure to thank people for their time and send out all my beta readers a free Advanced Reading Copy when the book is ready.
When do you begin promoting your next project?
Well before the first draft is even finished. With my latest published novel, I was sharing lines from the WIP on Twitter for hashtag games, and small snippets on Facebook.
What resources would you recommend?
A professional editor first, foremost and always. A good cover designer, whether you are going custom or pre-made. A good author support group. Facebook has several, and they can offer useful feedback for blurbs, covers, and offer tips and advice when you run into problems. Beta readers or critique partners, even if it is just one or two. Extra eyes on your book are great. I'd also recommend using Grammarly or some other form of editing program. It isn't a substitute for professional editing, but it is helpful.
How many parts of your publication process (e.g. cover design) do you let other people do for you?
Editing mainly. I have just enough artistic talent that I can squeak by with designing my own covers, although I do recommend indie authors go with professional cover artists or at least pre-made covers. And I also have enough persistence (this is where the coffee, cursing and patience come in handy) to do my own formatting.
What platforms do you use for promoting your work?
Newsletters, in the form of my own, swaps with other authors in the same genre, or the paid mailouts such as EbookBetty or Bargain Booksy. I also have a fan group on Facebook, and my Twitter platform, plus I've recently started using Instagram. I've also field testing paid Amazon and BookBub ads with my latest book.
What kind of additional content (e.g. short stories or character profiles) do you publish and when?
I have a book extras section set up on my website for my current series and upcoming series, plus I have some free short stories available. I've also done a few character interviews.
Do you do book signings? And if yes, where and when?
I haven't ventured in to book signing yet much, though I would like to do more in that area.
What would be your top tip regarding publishing a book?
Take your time and polish your product. You need a good quality, entertaining interior and an attractive exterior.
Thank you for answering the questions and good luck with all your future publications.
