Self-publishing is no longer the fallback option—it’s the smart choice for many Canadian authors.
After helping over 130 clients write and publish nonfiction books, I’ve seen firsthand how self-publishing gives writers something traditional publishing rarely does: creative control, faster timelines, and better royalties. It’s also the model I’ve used for my own books, and the results have been both meaningful and profitable.
But with freedom comes responsibility.
Choosing the right platform, navigating the publishing process, and understanding your distribution options can quickly overwhelm even the most seasoned writers. That’s why this guide exists—to give you clarity and direction in a crowded landscape.
Whether you're publishing your first book or looking to expand your reach with new formats, this article will help you understand your options and select the best self-publishing companies in Canada for your goals. We’ll explore full-service providers, print-on-demand platforms, eBook publishing tools, and hybrid publishers—plus how to avoid common pitfalls and build a book that’s both professional and profitable.
You’ll also find expert insights from my experience coaching authors, developing publishing strategies, and bringing books to market.
Table of Contents
- Why More Canadian Authors Choose Self-Publishing
- What Self-Publishing Involves (And Why You Need Strategy)
- How to Self-Publish a Book in Canada
- Best Self-Publishing Companies in Canada (Full-Service)
- Print-on-Demand (POD) and Distribution Platforms
- Hybrid Publishing Options
- How to Choose the Right Self-Publishing Option
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Self-Publishing
Why More Canadian Authors Choose Self-Publishing
Canadian authors are discovering what traditional publishing often hides—self-publishing offers freedom, control, and direct access to readers.
As a writing coach, I’ve worked with entrepreneurs, professionals, and thought leaders who didn’t want to spend years chasing literary agents. They wanted to publish a book that reflected their voice, helped their business, and created real impact. Self-publishing made that possible.
Unlike traditional publishing, which often takes 18–24 months to release a book, self-publishing puts the timeline in your hands. You decide when to publish, how to price your book, and which platforms to use for global distribution. You also retain full ownership of your intellectual property—a detail most aspiring authors overlook until it’s too late.
That doesn’t mean it’s easy. When you self-publish, you become the publisher. You’re responsible for editing, design, marketing, and sales. Without a plan, it’s easy to fall short.
That’s why strategy is essential. If you want to make your book work for you—whether that means building your credibility, reaching new clients, or growing your audience—you need to think beyond uploading a PDF to Amazon.
Not sure whether to self-publish or pursue a traditional deal? Read Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing to compare the two models and make an informed decision.
What Self-Publishing Involves (And Why You Need Strategy)
Publishing a book isn’t just about uploading a manuscript—it’s a series of strategic steps that turn your words into a professional product.
The self-publishing process includes writing, editing, design, formatting, distribution, and marketing. Most authors underestimate how many decisions they need to make—until they’re stuck in the middle of the process. That’s why having a roadmap matters.
I’ve coached dozens of clients who came to me with polished manuscripts but no idea how to turn them into a print book, eBook, or audiobook. Without a plan, they risked wasting time, money, and opportunity.
Here’s what a strategic publishing process looks like:
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Manuscript preparation: Write and revise your content with professional input.
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Editing: A thorough editorial process strengthens your message and structure.
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Book design: Interior layout and cover design influence both credibility and sales.
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Formatting: Your book must be formatted for different platforms—print, ePub, and PDF.
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Distribution: Choose the right distribution channels to reach global readers.
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Marketing: Build your author brand, grow your audience, and generate book sales.
The biggest mistake I see? Authors who treat publishing as an afterthought. But publishing is not a step—it’s a system. If your goal is to create authority, generate revenue, or grow your platform, you need more than a printed book. You need a publishing plan tailored to your goals.
How to Self-Publish a Book in Canada – Step-by-Step
Publishing your book in Canada is easier than ever—but only if you follow a clear process.
Many first-time authors get stuck trying to choose between self-publishing companies, print-on-demand services, and eBook platforms. Others jump in too fast, without understanding how royalties work or how to reach readers outside of Canada. After helping 130+ clients, I’ve found that clarity and simplicity win every time.
Here’s a high-level roadmap for Canadian authors ready to self-publish:
Step 1: Finalize Your Manuscript
Before you think about publishing, your manuscript must be complete. This means you’ve revised it, received feedback, and gone through editing. For nonfiction authors, this step often includes clarifying your message, refining your structure, and aligning the book with your brand or business.
Step 2: Choose the Right Publishing Model
There are three primary paths:
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Full-service self-publishing companies offer packages that include editing, design, and distribution.
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Print-on-demand platforms like IngramSpark and Lulu let you publish physical books without large upfront book printing costs.
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EBook platforms such as Kobo Writing Life or Amazon KDP let you publish directly and reach a global audience.
Some authors use multiple platforms to maximize reach—for example, KDP for Amazon, IngramSpark for bookstores, and Kobo for Canadian eBook readers.
Step 3: Invest in Professional Book Design
Your book’s design can make or break your credibility. This includes both the cover and the interior layout. A strong design helps your book compete with traditionally published titles—and that’s exactly what readers expect.
Step 4: Set Up Distribution
Decide how you want readers to access your book:
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Online retailers like Amazon, Kobo, and Apple Books.
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Canadian bookstores like Chapters/Indigo (via IngramSpark or FriesenPress).
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Your own website or direct sales channels.
Distribution also affects pricing, shipping, and royalties, so make informed decisions.
Step 5: Plan Your Marketing
Publishing is only half the battle. Without a plan to generate awareness and drive book sales, even the best-written book can get lost. Build your author platform, use email marketing, secure podcast interviews, and leverage content marketing.
Publishing a book is a serious investment of time, energy, and money—but when done strategically, it pays off for years. Whether your goal is impact, income, or both, self-publishing gives you the tools. You just need to use them wisely.
Need help navigating the publishing landscape? Book a strategy session to get clear on the next steps for your book.
Best Self-Publishing Companies in Canada (Full-Service)
If you want a professional book without managing every detail yourself, a full-service self-publishing company may be the best choice.
These companies provide editing, cover design, interior layout, distribution services, and sometimes even marketing support. Think of them as publishing partners—you still own your rights and royalties, but you get guidance and execution from professionals.
Based on my experience coaching over 130 authors, full-service options are ideal for those who:
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Want a stress-free publishing experience
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Don’t want to assemble a team of freelancers
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Care deeply about design, formatting, and professional polish
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Need distribution through bookstores and online retailers
Here are the top choices in Canada:
FriesenPress
Who it’s for: Authors looking for a full-service self-publishing experience, including editing, design, and marketing.
About: Based in Victoria, BC, FriesenPress is one of Canada’s leading self-publishing companies. They offer comprehensive services, including editorial support, book design, distribution, and marketing assistance. FriesenPress allows authors to publish in print, eBook, and audiobook formats, while also providing distribution through major retailers like Amazon, Chapters/Indigo, and Barnes & Noble.
Services offered: Editing, book design, formatting, distribution, marketing, and author support.
Cost: FriesenPress offers tiered packages, starting from basic services to premium publishing support.
Visit their site
Tellwell
Who it’s for: Writers seeking a hands-on, customizable self-publishing process with high-quality editorial and design services.
About: Tellwell is a full-service self-publishing company based in Canada. They focus on providing authors with top-notch editorial and design services, along with comprehensive marketing support. Tellwell authors keep 100% of their royalties after retailer fees, and the company offers distribution through Amazon, Chapters/Indigo, and other global retailers.
Services offered: Editing, cover and interior design, distribution, marketing, and author websites.
Cost: Tellwell’s packages vary based on the level of service, with flexible options for authors who want to customize their publishing experience.
Visit their site
Figure 1 Publishing
Who it’s for: Authors of high-quality nonfiction, business books, and illustrated titles.
About: Figure 1 Publishing offers a hybrid self-publishing model, combining professional-level publishing services with author control. They specialize in nonfiction and illustrated books, providing expert design, editing, and distribution support. Figure 1 is selective about the projects they accept but is an excellent option for authors looking to create high-quality, marketable books.
Services offered: Editing, design, marketing, and distribution.
Cost: Pricing varies depending on the complexity of the project and services required.
Visit their site
Latitude 46 Publishing
Who it’s for: Authors looking for high-quality services for literary fiction, memoirs, and regional stories.
About: Based in Sudbury, Ontario, Latitude 46 Publishing provides both traditional and hybrid publishing services, including self-publishing support. They focus on bringing Northern Ontario voices and stories to the forefront but are open to authors across Canada. They provide editing, design, and distribution services, particularly for literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and memoir.
Services offered: Editing, design, distribution, and project management.
Cost: Latitude 46 offers flexible pricing based on the author’s needs and the scope of the project.
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Rapido Books
Who it’s for: Authors of literary fiction, nonfiction, and short-form works.
About: Rapido Books, based in Montreal, is a boutique publisher that blends traditional publishing expertise with a self-publishing model, offering premium services to authors. They focus on short, impactful books, including literary fiction and creative nonfiction. Rapido Books provides professional editing, design, and production services, ensuring that authors produce polished, market-ready books. Rapido also has a strong distribution network that includes access to bookstores, libraries, and online retailers across North America.
Services offered: Editing, design, production, distribution, and marketing.
Cost: Rapido Books offers tailored packages depending on the scope of the project. Authors can choose from a range of services, from basic production to comprehensive publishing solutions.
Visit their site
Not all publishing companies are created equal. Some prioritize volume over quality. Others offer exceptional service but aren't the right match for your content or audience. That’s why I guide my clients through selecting the right publishing partner based on their book’s purpose, genre, and growth goals.
Print-On-Demand (POD) and Distribution Platforms
Print-on-demand (POD) has revolutionized book printing by making it low-risk and scalable for self-published authors.
Instead of printing hundreds of copies upfront, POD platforms only print your book when someone orders it. This model reduces inventory costs and allows authors to test different markets—local, national, and international—without the financial risk of traditional print runs.
As a publishing strategist, I often recommend POD to authors who want to retain control and manage their book’s distribution services across multiple platforms.
Here are the top POD platforms for Canadian authors:
Blurb
Who it’s for: Writers, photographers, and creators interested in self-publishing high-quality printed books or photo books.
About: Blurb is an online self-publishing platform that allows authors to create, print, and distribute print-on-demand books. Blurb is particularly popular with authors creating photo books, cookbooks, and art books. Their tools allow for customization of layouts, and their books are printed with high-quality paper and binding.
Services offered: Print-on-demand services, design tools, distribution via Amazon and Blurb bookstore.
Cost: Costs are based on the printing and design features you choose, and there are no upfront fees for distribution.
Visit their site
IngramSpark
Who it’s for: Authors looking for a global distribution platform with high-quality POD services.
About: IngramSpark offers print-on-demand and eBook publishing services with a global distribution network, including access to Amazon, Chapters/Indigo, Barnes & Noble, and more. IngramSpark is ideal for authors who want to self-publish while maintaining professional-quality printing and distribution.
Services offered: POD, global distribution, eBook conversion, and professional-grade printing.
Cost: IngramSpark charges for print setup and revisions, and there are fees associated with distributing through their network.
Visit their site
Lulu
Who it’s for: Authors of all genres looking for simple POD services with broad distribution.
About: Lulu is a popular platform for authors looking for print-on-demand services with options to distribute globally. Lulu allows authors to create and sell print books, eBooks, and calendars. Their distribution network includes Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and they offer a range of paper options for quality printing.
Services offered: Print-on-demand, global distribution, and online bookstore.
Cost: There are no upfront costs for creating an account, but printing costs are deducted from sales, and there are additional fees for global distribution.
Visit their site
Which POD Platform Should You Choose?
The best print-on-demand option depends on your book type, audience, and publishing goals:
| Platform | Best For | Distribution Scope |
|---|---|---|
| IngramSpark | Professional nonfiction, bookstore reach | Global |
| Lulu | Broad use, workbooks, lower costs | Global |
| Blurb | Photo-heavy books, creatives | Global + Direct-to-reader |
For many authors, the ideal setup is hybrid—using Amazon KDP for Amazon sales, IngramSpark for expanded reach, and Lulu or Blurb for special editions or direct sales through your own website.
Best E-Book Publishing Platforms for Canadian Authors
The Canadian ebook market continues to grow, giving authors an affordable and scalable way to reach readers worldwide.
Publishing your book as an eBook comes with several benefits: low production costs, instant global distribution, and the ability to update your content anytime. It’s also one of the fastest ways to test demand, build a readership, and generate book sales—especially if you're publishing your first title.
In my work with nonfiction authors, I often recommend launching both a print and eBook version to maximize visibility across formats and multiple platforms. Here are the top eBook publishing tools for Canadian writers today:
Kobo Writing Life
Kobo is Canada’s most author-friendly digital retailer. With strong market share across the country and partnerships with indie bookstores, Kobo Writing Life gives Canadian authors unique visibility—especially for nonfiction and genre fiction.
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Best for: Canadian authors who want to build a domestic and global eBook audience
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Strengths: Canadian ownership, easy dashboard, flexible pricing
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Key features: Publish in EPUB format, set your own price, track real-time sales
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Royalties: Up to 70%, no exclusivity required
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
KDP is the world’s largest self publishing platform, giving you access to millions of readers through Amazon's global marketplaces. In addition to eBooks, KDP lets you publish directly in paperback and hardcover formats.
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Best for: Authors seeking maximum reach through Amazon
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Strengths: Massive audience, Kindle Unlimited exposure, built-in marketing tools
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Key features: KDP Select, Kindle Unlimited, promotional pricing, author pages
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Royalties: 35% or 70%, depending on pricing and region
Apple Books
Apple Books gives authors access to a premium eBook audience—especially on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. While the setup is slightly more technical than KDP or Kobo, Apple Books is worth adding to your distribution plan.
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Best for: Authors targeting the Apple ecosystem and visually polished titles
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Strengths: Strong global reach, intuitive reader experience, apple books branding
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Distribution: Available on all Apple devices through the native Books app
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Royalties: Up to 70%
Google Play Books
Google Play Books offers massive reach for Android users and easy integration with Google services. It's ideal for nonfiction authors focused on SEO, discoverability, and android phones.
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Best for: Authors who want visibility on Google search and Android devices
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Strengths: Large untapped market, cross-device syncing, google play books app
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Key features: Search visibility, coupon creation, analytics
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Royalties: 52–70%, depending on territory
Choosing the Right E-Book Platforms
Many authors ask: “Which platform should I use?”
The answer: use all of them—strategically.
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Start with KDP for Amazon visibility.
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Add Kobo to access the Canadian market.
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Use Draft2Digital or PublishDrive to distribute to Apple Books and Google Play if you prefer a simplified upload process.
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Always retain control of your files and metadata.
Publishing ebooks on multiple platforms builds long-term resilience and widens your income streams.
Hybrid Publishing Options
Some authors want the professionalism of traditional publishing and the freedom of self-publishing. That’s where hybrid publishing comes in.
Hybrid publishers combine the editorial and design quality of a traditional house with the flexibility, speed, and creative control of self publishing. You contribute to the publishing costs, but you retain more rights and receive higher royalties than in a standard book deal.
I often recommend hybrid publishing to authors who:
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Want expert guidance and polish without giving up ownership
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Need access to distribution services but don’t want to DIY
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Are investing in their book as part of their business or personal brand
Here are two of the most notable hybrid publishers in Canada:
Iguana Books
Who it’s for: Authors seeking a combination of self-publishing and traditional publishing services.
About: Iguana Books operates as a hybrid publisher, offering both self-publishing services and curated publishing for select projects. They provide professional editing, design, and distribution services while allowing authors to retain ownership of their work. Iguana Books focuses on high-quality literary and commercial fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
Services offered: Editing, design, distribution, marketing, and hybrid publishing.
Cost: Iguana Books offers flexible pricing based on the level of service required by the author.
Visit their site
Hybrid Publishers
Who it’s for: Authors looking for high-quality publishing services with a focus on collaboration and creative control.
About: Hybrid Publishers offer a mix of traditional and self-publishing services, providing professional editorial, design, and marketing support. This model is ideal for authors who want creative control over their work but also need the expertise of experienced publishing professionals.
Services offered: Editing, cover design, distribution, marketing, and PR services.
Cost: Costs vary depending on the services required, and the author retains a higher share of royalties compared to traditional publishing.
Visit their site
Other Hybrid Publishers in Canada
Several smaller Canadian publishers now operate under hybrid models, offering various levels of support depending on your goals. These publishers typically offer:
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Customized publishing services packages
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Editorial coaching and content development
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Project management and ISBN assignment
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Access to bookstore distribution (via Ingram or similar networks)
When evaluating hybrid publishers, ask:
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Who owns the rights?
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What’s the royalty structure?
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Are marketing services included—or extra?
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Will you get a say in cover design and branding?
Remember: the best hybrid publishers act like partners, not vendors. You should feel respected, involved, and informed throughout the process.
Hybrid vs. Full-Service Self-Publishing
| Feature | Hybrid Publishing | Full-Service Self-Publishing |
|---|---|---|
| Author retains rights | Yes | Yes |
| Author invests financially | Yes | Yes |
| Manuscript is vetted | Usually | No |
| Royalties | Shared | 100% after distribution fees |
| Creative control | Medium–High | High |
Choosing between hybrid and full-service self-publishing depends on your vision, resources, and how involved you want to be.
How to Choose the Right Self-Publishing Option (Based on Your Goals)
Choosing a self-publishing option isn’t just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. Your publishing path should reflect your long-term goals as an author, entrepreneur, or thought leader.
After working with more than 130 authors, I’ve found that clarity is what separates successful publishing projects from frustrating ones. When you know the outcome you’re aiming for, you can make better choices about which services, platforms, and investments to prioritize.
Here’s how to think through your publishing options based on what you want your book to do for you.
Building Your Brand or Credibility
If your goal is to establish yourself as an expert, speaker, or authority in your field, you need a book that looks and reads like a professionally published product. Visual design, layout, and positioning matter. You also want a publishing process that gives you full creative input.
A full-service self-publishing company or a reputable hybrid publisher can provide the structure and support to get your book to market without cutting corners. These options give you the polish of traditional publishing with the freedom to direct your brand.
Growing Your Business or Generating Leads
If you're writing a book as part of a broader business strategy, the publishing model must serve your sales funnel. This means you want maximum control over pricing, messaging, and where and how the book is sold.
In this case, Amazon KDP and IngramSpark are essential tools. They let you publish in print and digital formats while controlling distribution through Amazon, your own website, and even bookstores. A well-executed lead magnet or CTA inside the book can drive qualified leads straight to your business.
Selling Books and Creating Passive Income
Some authors are focused on sales. They want to reach readers, generate revenue, and turn their books into income-producing assets. To achieve this, you need global reach and smart platform selection.
Publishing on multiple platforms—such as Amazon KDP, Kobo Writing Life, Apple Books, and Google Play—gives you access to diverse audiences and revenue streams. Pair this with professional editing, keyword optimization, and compelling design to maximize your book’s discoverability and sales potential.
Publishing a Creative or Visual Project
If your book is highly visual—such as a photo book, cookbook, or art project—then your platform must support full design control and premium printing.
Blurb and Lulu are great options here, offering extensive customization and high-quality paper options. Hybrid publishers with design expertise can also help elevate your visual content, especially if you’re looking for a retail-ready finish.
Sharing a Memoir or Personal Story
Memoirs and legacy projects are often deeply personal. While some authors want to sell their stories widely, others simply want to leave a legacy or tell their story on their terms. In either case, professional editing and thoughtful storytelling are critical.
Platforms like FriesenPress, Tellwell, or Latitude 46 Publishing are strong choices. These companies offer full-service support while allowing you to maintain ownership and direction.
When authors skip this kind of strategic thinking, they often end up with a book that looks amateurish or fails to meet their expectations. But when your publishing model matches your intent, your book becomes a powerful tool—not just a finished project.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Self-Publishing
Self-publishing gives authors the tools to control their message, timeline, and revenue—but with that control comes responsibility. Many self published authors make avoidable mistakes that weaken the quality of their book or limit its reach.
These mistakes aren’t just technical—they’re strategic. Here are the most common issues I’ve seen firsthand while helping authors navigate the publishing process.
Rushing to Publish Without Professional Editing
One of the most damaging mistakes is skipping professional editing. Even the best writers need an editor to bring clarity, structure, and polish to their work. Publishing unedited content not only affects credibility but also undermines your authority—especially in nonfiction.
Never assume that spellcheck or beta readers are enough. Invest in developmental editing if your book needs structural improvement, and use copyediting or proofreading before hitting publish.
Underestimating the Importance of Book Design
Design isn’t cosmetic—it’s functional. Poor book design, whether on the cover or inside pages, signals a lack of professionalism and deters potential readers. Your book should match or exceed the visual standard set by traditional publishers.
Strong cover design, effective typography, clean layout, and correct formatting for both print and eBook platforms are non-negotiable. These details influence sales, reviews, and reader engagement.
Choosing the Wrong Publishing Platform
Not all publishing companies and platforms are created equal. Some overcharge for basic services. Others offer little more than file upload tools. If you don’t research your options, you risk locking into platforms that restrict your distribution or royalties.
Your publishing platform should align with your goals—whether that’s broad distribution services, bookstore placement, creative control, or international reach.
Ignoring Distribution and Marketing
Publishing doesn’t stop at uploading your manuscript. You need a plan for distribution and marketing. Authors who skip this step often watch their books sit idle on digital shelves.
Distribution affects where and how your book is sold—whether through Amazon, IngramSpark, Kobo, or your own website. Marketing drives visibility. Without it, your book is invisible, no matter how strong the content.
Mismanaging Upfront Costs
Self-publishing is an investment, and you must treat it that way. Authors often underestimate upfront costs or spend their entire budget on one element—like printing—while ignoring others, such as editing or promotion.
A balanced publishing budget includes editing, design, formatting, printing (if applicable), and some form of marketing. If your budget is limited, prioritize essentials that impact quality and discoverability.
You don’t have to learn these lessons the hard way. By planning your publishing journey with the same intention you brought to writing your manuscript, you’ll avoid costly missteps and build a book you’re proud to share.
Want to ensure your self-publishing process is smooth and strategic? Book a consultation and let’s review your publishing plan before you make a costly mistake.
Ready to Publish Your Book?
Self-publishing offers incredible flexibility and control for authors, but it also requires careful planning and decision-making.
Whether you’re looking for full-service support, print-on-demand services, or an easy way to publish your eBook, these Canadian self-publishing platforms provide a wide range of options to help bring your book to life.
Not sure which option is right for you? Book a consultation with us to get expert advice on self-publishing, marketing, and distribution strategies that will help your book reach its full potential.
Article by Leandre Larouche
Leandre Larouche is a writer, coach, and the founder of Trivium Writing.
