Ignorance
I thought writing your story was the most significant part of the journey and that I was relatively good at writing. I was wrong. Editing, paperback interior design, marketing plan, marketing research, searching for and finding the right book cover design or designer, etcetera. I thought I was drowning, and when I got my edited novel back, I realized I didn’t know that much about writing at all. So, I took a few courses and learned a lot. There’s always more to learn in this field. Take the time and learn more about your craft. It’s worth it.
Wrong Editor
I chose the wrong editors. I had editors who specialized in genres that weren’t my own, and it turned into a hot mess. They all tried to mold my story according to their frames of reference. In the end, I had to do double the work and almost lost my writer’s voice. It’s essential to find a good editor in your specific genre.
Use Friends As Beta Readers
Friends can’t be objective. They will mostly tell you what you want to hear. Other readers won’t be as kind with their words. Use paid Beta Readers. They are honest and to the point, and often give you more to work with than an editor.
Wrong Book Cover Designer
Finding a good cover designer is really hard, and if you use one that’s not familiar with your genre, the process could quickly turn into a frustrating nightmare. Take the time to find the right cover designer. Check references, reviews, and previous work. If you don’t, you’ll get burned.
Self-doubt
It’s hard not to listen to all the doubters and negativity thrown at you. Editor comments and beta reader comments can be disheartening, but they don’t define you as a writer. Take it in, take a breath, and find your self-determination again. If you believe you can do it, you can. Don’t give up. Keep going and keep trying. If you feel your story is worth telling, then it is. Fight for it.
C.M. Rachels 