There are all kinds of ways for authors to publish today. You can upload your book directly to Amazon and the other major online bookstores or use a distributor to reach hundreds of stores. The trouble is, most authors publish too early, before doing any market research, before asking for feedback from early readers, and without professional editing and design. Authors who want to make a career of writing and publishing need to know there are standards and steps to follow. Those who realize there are no shortcuts are going to succeed when they adhere to those standards and take the necessary steps to publish professionally.

This 4th edition of the Self-Publishing Boot Camp Guide for Independent Authors offers advice on marketing, editing, design, book production, and business authors need. It's meant for authors willing to do the work to create a readership and make real money from their books. It's meant for authors who want to do it all themselves and for those who want to hire out all or part of the tasks toward publishing. Authors who wish to set up business as a small press will also benefit from the processes spelled out here.

From beta publishing to distribution to media relations, authors will learn how to set a foundation for success from the idea stage to a quality, finished book. The step-by-step process includes recommendations for self-publishing products, tools, and services from reputable companies that are proven and trusted to help authors succeed. Reader's updates keep authors abreast of new offerings and changes in the self-publishing industry.

Carla King has more than twenty years of experience as a writer, self-publisher, web developer, and book consultant. She started self-publishing in 1995 as a technology and travel writer. In 2010 she founded the Self-Publishing Boot Camp series of books, workshops, and online courses. She has been connected with the Silicon Valley self-publishing technology industry from its inception and has served as a trusted advisor to authors eager to use the tools to reach readers.