The Top 10 Self-Publishing Resources of 2012

Merry Christmas! 

I hope you’re spending today in the warmth and comfort of friends and family, and that you have time to share and laugh together — I know I will! I can’t wait to see if I get anything from my last-minute Christmas list!

Today, we’ll look at a list of the best self-publishing resources I’ve come across in 2012.

Some are books, some are blogs, some are neither — but all of them are personal recommendations, meaning I use and vouch for every single one of them, just like the additional tools and resources in The Writer’s Toolbox.

As always, this list is far from conclusive — it’s going to change, grow, and hopefully incorporate all-new resources next year. Leave a comment with your favorites, or any that you would put on your own list, and thanks for stopping by!

#10. Writer’s Digest

I’ve never subscribed to their print magazine (something I’ll probably start to do in 2013), but I get their emails, subscribe to their blog, and have read quite a few of their published titles.

They do seem to lean more toward the “traditional publishing” side of things, but that’s okay — their advice is sound, they’re up-to-date with the industry, and I’ve enjoyed their mailings so far. If you’re serious about a writing career, they really do have some helpful resources.

#9. Smashwords

Mark Coker started Smashwords with the goal of helping self-published authors get noticed by providing easy access to many of the major online bookstores. The plan, so far, has succeeded, and there are few self-published folks out there who’ve not heard of Smashwords.

I’m a huge Amazon fan, and have been enrolled in their KDP Select program since I launched Building A Blog for Readers this year. However, there are times when I want to have access to the rest of the market, and there’s no better place to go than the all-in-one Smashwords!

#8. A Newbie’s Guide to Publishing (JA Konrath’s blog)

One of the first resources for self-published authors I found, JA Konrath is a double-whammy for me: He’s an exceptional blogger, knocking out treatise-length posts regularly that are full of soul, experience, and advice for the up-and-coming. Second, he’s a hell of a writer, and I love his fiction. It’s high-octane thrills, just like I enjoy!

#7. SelfPublishingTeam.com

Duolit (Shannon and Toni) has been astonishing me with their down-to-earth, friendly advice and help for new DIYers, and it’s been really neat to watch them grow their own readership.

I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to both of them via Skype, and they’re as nice and friendly as their blog posts. They have huge plans for 2013, so be sure to subscribe and stay tuned!

#6. Let’s Get Digital (Book by David Gaughran)

Let’s Get Digital is one of those books that you just need to read. Whether you’re finished writing, haven’t started, or are somewhere in-between, David’s book is one of the number-one resources I’ve found that really do walk you through the steps leading to an author platform.

Before I came across the book, I had seen his name around in forums and other blog mentions, so I already trusted that he was a well-known resource in the industry.

#5. Amazon KDP Select

This one’s a powerhouse, and another no-brainer. KDP Select launched with some self-published authors taking note, and it quickly grew into one of the most disruptive forces in the entire publishing world. It hasn’t stopped, and with an additional $1M+ bonus fund for this month, I’m excited to see where they’re taking it in 2013.

If you have a book out, it’s worth your time to at least invest in setting up a quick account and getting one or all or your books uploaded. You can choose to participate in Select or not, but the 5-day free promo option they offer has been a serious help in launching many a self-published book to massive sales.

#4. TheCreativePenn.com

Joanna Penn’s been at it for years, but I stumbled across her website and podcast earlier this year. She’s been offering great, helpful advice free of charge in the midst of maintaining a ridiculously-prolific writing schedule.

Her fiction books are stellar, and I’m honored to have been able to mention her on this list!

#3. Scrivener

Duh, you knew this one was coming! Scrivener is the secret to my writing a book — it’s really that good. I tried — and failed — with Microsoft Word, but I just couldn’t get past the feature bloat, numerous files, and general confusion inherent with any long document in Word.

When I started using Scrivener, I was worried I’d wasted money, but I was pleasantly surprised to say the least. It’s been my go-to writing app ever since.

Oh, yeah, and Merry Christmas — if you purchase it using the coupon code LIVEHACKED you’ll get an extra 20% discount!

#2. TheBookDesigner.com

Joel Friedlander is another of those venerable guys you keep hearing about but seems too good to be true. In my mind, he’s like the Godfather of book design, and his work is definitely a testament to that.

As if his work wasn’t enough on its own, he runs an awesome blog offering totally free advice and wisdom on book layout, choosing fonts, and cover design that really should be on your RSS list.

#1. WordPress

For most of you, this one should be obvious as well — I’m an advocate of WordPress, and even more so of the self-hosted version. It’s what this site is built on, and it’s what every client site we build is built on.

It’s completely modern (meaning it’s being constantly and consistentlydeveloped, and it’s absolutely the best way to present your author blog and build your Home Base online. If you’re ever going to build the platform of your dreams, WordPress is a giant shortcut in getting something up that works, looks great, and will be a steady force for years to come.

Your turn.

What are your favorites? Leave a comment with your favorites, or any that you would put on your own list, and thanks for stopping by!