Introduction

Have you ever dreamed of holding your novel in your hands, bound and printed, with your name across the cover? For many aspiring authors, it used to feel impossible without a book deal, a literary agent, or years of navigating traditional publishing. Today, self-publishing has become a powerful path for writers who want control, independence, and the ability to reach readers directly.

Digital tools and print-on-demand (POD) technology have removed the biggest barriers. You no longer need vast funds to initiate a large print run or extra space to store hundreds of books. Instead, you can publish your novel at your own pace, in your style, and deliver copies only when readers place an order.

However, you become the project manager for your book. That means making decisions about editing, design, marketing, and distribution. But this doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a straightforward step-by-step process, self-publishing your novel becomes not just achievable but rewarding. This guide will take you through every stage, from shaping your manuscript to the final launch.

Preparing a Manuscript

Identifying Your Target Audience

Before you print a novel, you need to know who you’re writing for. Every book has an audience, and defining who your readers are helps shape the choices you make in the editing, design, and marketing phases.

For example, if your novel is a fast-paced young adult fantasy, your audience may expect short, punchy chapters, a compelling central character, and a vibrant book cover design. If you’re writing literary fiction, readers may want rich character development, layered themes, and well-written prose. Understanding these expectations early means you’ll deliver a book that resonates with the right people, which should, in turn, lead to sales.

Conducting Market Research

Market research is about studying the books that are already winning over the readers you want to reach. Start by searching for novels in your genre. Pay close attention to:

• Cover design trends: For example, romance novels often have soft color palettes and scripted typefaces, while thrillers tend to feature bold, high-contrast typography. For more information, check out this beginner’s guide to the best fonts for book printing on our blog.
  
   
• Blurbs and descriptions: What language is used? Are there any hooks or phrases that keep appearing?
  
   
• Reviews: Praise points highlighting what readers value most, while criticism reveals common frustrations, from slow pacing to poor editing.

Pricing is also key. If most novels in your genre have a mid-range price for paperback, launching yours too low could send the wrong signal about quality. Conversely, pricing it too high may make it uncompetitive. Market research ultimately arms you with the insights to position your book where readers are ready to buy.
 

Choosing the Right Self-Publishing Platform

Once you’ve polished your manuscript, the next step is choosing where and how to self-publish a novel. The platform you choose determines how readers will find your book, how much you’ll earn per sale, and what tools you’ll have at your disposal.

Some platforms, like Amazon KDP, focus heavily on digital eBooks but also allow paperbacks. Others, like Mixam, specialise in professional printing and have a flexible POD service. Key factors to consider include:

• Royalties and fees: How much will you keep from each sale?
  
   
• Distribution reach: Can readers in other countries order your novel?
  
   
• Ease of use: Is the platform beginner-friendly?
  
   
• File requirements: Will you need separate files for digital and print editions?

The best option for you depends on your goals. Do you want wide distribution? Or do you imagine holding beautifully printed copies of your novel in bookshops or at events? If physical books are your priority, Mixam makes the process straightforward while giving you creative control.

 

Why should I print my novel with Mixam?

For many authors, nothing compares to seeing their story in print. A physical copy of your novel has weight, texture, and permanence that digital editions can’t replicate. Printing used to mean large, costly runs, but that’s where Mixam stands out.

Mixam’s novel printing service allows you to print what you need, whether that’s a small run for a book signing or print-on-demand copies. POD’s versatility means no more boxes of unsold stock and no financial risk of over-ordering. Even better, you can choose the paper type, binding style, size, and finish. Mixam’s Instant Quote Calculator also makes it easy to see exactly how much your choices will cost, and if you’re curious about how POD compares to bulk printing, our comparison guide breaks it down clearly.

Professional Editing Services

Why Book Editing Matters

Editing ensures your book feels professional, polished, and enjoyable to read. It can also directly impact your reviews. A well-edited book earns praise and builds trust, but a poorly edited one risks negative feedback that can damage sales in the long run.

Types of Book Editing

Many authors underestimate the value of editing, but it’s often the difference between a recommended book and an abandoned one. Consider these different levels of editing and how they could help you:

• Developmental Editing looks at the big picture: plot, pacing, and character development.
  
   
• Line Editing focuses on style, tone, and readability at the sentence level.
  
   
• Copy Editing checks for grammar, punctuation, and consistency.

How to Find the Right Editor

You can search and hire professional editors through freelance platforms, writing networks, or recommendations. Look for someone experienced in your genre and ask for a sample edit before committing. If you’re on a tight budget, combine beta readers for broader feedback with at least a copy edit to polish the final version.

Designing a Standout Cover

A great book cover communicates professionalism and genre instantly. Working with a professional designer is ideal, but if that’s not possible, you can still achieve excellent results. Mixam’s Design Online tool offers easy templates that meet industry standards, allowing you to create print-ready covers without advanced design skills.

You’ll need:

• A front cover with your title, name, and central artwork.
  
   
• A spine with the title and author name.
  
   
• A back cover featuring your blurb, optional barcode/ISBN, and even an author photo.
   

Together, these elements form the visual identity of your book to not only grab attention but also set reader expectations.

Print-on-Demand Services

Why Choose POD?

Print on demand has transformed the way authors bring their books to market. Instead of investing in large print runs and worrying about storing unsold stock, POD allows copies to be printed only when a customer places an order.

For self-published authors, POD offers unmatched flexibility. You can update files if you spot an error, release new editions, or even test different designs. It also makes experimenting with special editions or complementary products simple, all while keeping your primary sales channel open. Scalable, efficient, and eco-friendly, POD is a wise choice for authors who want minimum risk and maximum reach with complete creative control over their publishing journey.

Choosing a Reliable POD Provider

Mixam’s PrintLink takes POD to the next level. You’re not just printing books - you’re supported to grow your readership and generate income. PrintLink combines high-quality printing with built-in sales tools designed to make self-publishing easier. Here’s how:

• Exceptional Print Quality – Every order adheres to industry standards, so every novel feels bookstore-ready.

• Track Sales in Real Time – Monitor orders through a simple dashboard.

• Adjust Pricing Anytime – Change your pricing instantly to boost profits.

• Fast Setup & Approval – Choose your specifications, upload files, and launch with expert-approved files.

• Direct-to-Reader Shipping – Mixam handles the printing, packing and fulfillment so you don’t have to.

• Virtual Flipbook – You can choose to share an interactive preview to attract buyers.

• Flexible Formats – Choose from both hardcover and paperback formats.

• Customizable URLs – Share your PrintLink anywhere online, from your social media profiles to your website.

• Genre Categorization – Improve visibility by assigning genre tags to your books.

• Sell Book Series or Bundles – Perfect for authors with multiple books.

• Email Collection Tool – Build a mailing list directly from your account. 

Establishing an Online Presence

Creating an Online Presence

Your novel is the product, but you are the brand. Readers often want to connect with the person behind the story. Start with a simple author website that introduces who you are, features your book, and includes a way for readers to stay in touch, such as a newsletter signup.

On social media, choose platforms where your target readers spend time. BookTok on TikTok is huge for younger audiences. Instagram works well for visual storytelling, while Twitter/X connects you with writing communities and industry discussions. Consistency matters more than perfection. Share progress updates, cover reveals, or even behind-the-scenes writing habits.

Develop a Launch Strategy

Think of your launch as a series of events that build anticipation and excitement. You could:

• Offer preorders to capture sales ahead of time.
  
   
• Send advance review copies to generate buzz and collect testimonials.
  
   
• Run a discounted launch promotion to encourage early purchases.
  
   
• Collaborate with other authors or book bloggers to expand your reach.
   

Post-launch, keep engaging your readers. Your first book can be the foundation for a long-term career if you build a community around your work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you self-publish your book?

Yes - if you want creative freedom, control over timelines, and ownership of your profits. Self-publishing empowers you to make decisions that traditional publishers often reserve for themselves.

How much does it cost to self-publish a book?

Costs vary based on factors like editing, design, and printing. Use Mixam’s Instant Quote Calculator to see exactly how much your chosen print options will cost.

What do you need to use print-on-demand?

You’ll need high-quality digital files, including a complete cover spread and interior pages. You can create these in your preferred design software or with Mixam’s Design Online tool. You’ll also need to enter details like book size, format, and page count into the Instant Quote Calculator. Finally, connect your Stripe account to receive payments - Mixam’s Stripe guide will walk you through the setup process.

Conclusion

Self-publishing a novel is the beginning of your journey as an independent author. While the process may seem daunting at first, breaking it into clear steps makes it achievable. From identifying your audience and polishing your manuscript to choosing a POD provider and launching strategically, you now have a roadmap that puts you in control.

With Mixam’s professional printing and innovative PrintLink service, you can share your story with more readers. Whether you’re printing your very first book or adding to your catalog, the tools are at your fingertips. Dive into Mixam’s Book Printing Guide and PrintLink Guide to discover how you can start selling your work on demand.

Main Image Credit: Freepik