The fifth step in the novel writing process: Publish your novel!

Now that you have written your novel and polished it to perfection, it’s time to enter the next phase of the novel writing process. While it might feel like the finish line is in sight, publishing is actually an integral part of the journey, not just the end point. It’s the bridge between your story and its audience, and how you approach this step can make all the difference in how your book finds its readers. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional publisher or planning to self-publish, viewing publishing as an essential step of the novel writing process will help you prepare for what’s to come and set your novel up for success.

Writing a novel is a deeply personal and creative endeavor, but its ultimate purpose is to be read. By thinking about publishing as you write, you can better shape your story to meet the needs of your intended audience and the expectations of your chosen publishing path, whether traditional or independent.

For instance, understanding industry trends or knowing the preferences of a specific genre can inform decisions about your plot, characters, or word count. Additionally, considering the publishing process early can help you manage practical aspects, such as building a platform, researching submission guidelines, or budgeting for self-publishing costs. 

It’s also important to remember that writing and revising aren’t typically finished once you reach the publishing step of the novel writing process. Editors, agents, and even beta readers may request changes to your manuscript to improve its marketability or readability. This means you’ll likely revisit your work with fresh eyes, sometimes making significant edits to ensure it resonates with readers and meets professional standards. When you approach publishing as a continuation of the creative process rather than a separate task, you’re better positioned to embrace these changes and produce the best possible version of your novel. 

As you can see, publishing isn’t just the final step in the novel writing process—it’s a vital part of bringing your story to life. By incorporating an understanding of publishing into your writing journey, you can make informed decisions that enhance both your manuscript and your confidence as an author. Whether you’re preparing to submit to agents, pitch to publishers, or embark on a self-publishing adventure, remember that publishing is as much about growth and collaboration as it is about sharing your work with the world. With patience and dedication, your story will not only be written but also read, fulfilling its ultimate purpose.

Now available in print and on Kindle!

Now that Jack has been forced to reflect on everything he has to lose, he resolves to do better. He’s determined to spend more time at home with his family and repair the relationships that have suffered over the years while he’s been so focused on work. But as Callie’s behavior becomes increasingly bizarre, Jack realizes he has a lot more room to improve than he realized – and it might be too late to save his daughter after all.

For fans of We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Push, and Baby Teeth.