You can write an excellent book and still struggle if nobody knows it exists. Do you agree, or do you think a genuinely great book will eventually find its audience?

One thing I’ve noticed from working around authors and manuscripts is that many writers spend years focusing on *finishing* their book, but very little time thinking about the *publishing path* that will follow. By the time the manuscript is done, questions start appearing: • Should I query literary agents or consider independent publishing? • Is the manuscript truly ready for submission, or does it still need structural work? • What materials do agents or publishers actually expect? There isn’t a single right path for every book, but clarity about the publishing route can make a big difference in how smoothly the process goes. Out of curiosity for the writers here: Are you currently writing your manuscript, preparing to publish, or already querying agents?

For a while I had 8 books out. Real books, real work behind them, decent sales even. But almost no reviews and barely any visibility. I kept wondering why they weren't reaching more people. Honestly, I think I just assumed that once a book was out there, it would find its readers on its own. Write it, publish it, done. Looking back, that was the actual problem. Having books out isn't the same as having a plan for who actually finds them. I started working with Adam a while back, and it changed how I think about the whole thing, not just writing, but what happens after. Still early days for me, but I'm already noticing a difference in how I approach things now. Curious if anyone else has been here. Was there a moment you realized the real issue wasn't your writing, but something happening behind the scenes? What was it, and how'd you figure it out?

I’ve been working towards the goal of becoming a stronger self-publisher, and one thing I’ve learned is that progress becomes much easier when you stop trying to figure everything out alone. I’ve faced plenty of challenges around understanding the publishing process, making the right decisions, and knowing which strategies are worth focusing on. Getting guidance from people with more experience has helped me avoid mistakes and move with much more clarity. Since many of us here are working towards similar goals, I’d love to learn from those further along the journey. What’s one self-publishing strategy, tool, or lesson that has made the biggest difference for you? And if you’re currently stuck on something, share it below. Someone in this community may have already faced the same challenge and can point you in the right direction.

What's your biggest frustration? 😊 I'm genuinely curious, and it'll help me understand what authors are struggling with most right now. Feel free to leave a comment too