Publishing a book is an exciting milestone—and in today’s publishing landscape, authors have more opportunities than ever to bring their work to life independently, professionally, and with intention.
Whether you’re publishing under your own imprint or partnering with a publisher, success no longer hinges on doing everything alone. Instead, it’s about making informed decisions, investing wisely, and surrounding yourself with the right support.
Here are our top five tips for publishing a best-seller, refreshed to reflect today’s publishing realities.
1. Invest in Professional Publishing Support
One of the biggest mistakes authors make when publishing independently is assuming they must do everything themselves. While independent publishing offers incredible flexibility and ownership, quality still matters—deeply.
Professional publishing support often includes:
- Developmental or structural editing
- Copyediting and proofreading
- Custom and unique cover design
- Interior design, layout and typesetting
- Ebook and print formatting
- Distribution setup and guidance
- Launch and marketing strategy support
At Market Refined Publishing, we serve authors who want to publish independently without sacrificing excellence. We offer partner publishing services under our imprint, providing professional editorial, design, production, and strategic guidance—all while allowing authors to retain their rights and royalties.
Rather than outsourcing piecemeal services or navigating the process alone, authors can partner with MRP or a similar publisher for a cohesive, guided publishing experience that prioritizes clarity, craftsmanship, and long-term impact.
Publishing well isn’t about shortcuts—it’s about building a professional product that reflects the value of your message.
2. Treat Your Book Like a Business (Because It Is One)
Publishing independently means thinking like an entrepreneur, not just a writer.
That means being intentional about business strategy steps, like:
- Understanding your audience
- Clarifying your goals (visibility, authority, revenue, ministry, legacy, etc.)
- Planning your budget realistically
- Considering long-term marketing and distribution strategies
Today’s most successful authors approach publishing as a strategic extension of their brand, platform, or mission—not a one-time passion project. Simple things like an optimized author bio or well-done back matter in your book will help eager readers connect and engage with you beyond a single release.
A book is often a gateway to speaking, consulting, coaching, or ministry opportunities. Treating it professionally from the start positions it to serve you well beyond launch day.
3. Don’t Rush the Process
Publishing independently allows for flexibility, but speed should never come at the expense of quality.
Rushing past thorough content development or editing, design, or proofreading stages is one of the fastest ways to undermine credibility and reader trust.
Give yourself (and your publishing team) the time needed to:
- Refine the manuscript
- Strengthen structure and clarity
- Ensure visual and editorial excellence
As a general rule, we recommend allowing six months from the start of developmental or substantive edits to the selected release date to ensure enough margin for each step of the publishing process to be completed well.
A well-produced book reflects respect for your readers, your message, and your future opportunities.
4. Distribution Matters More Than You Think
Getting your book into the world is about more than uploading files.
Today’s independent publishing landscape offers multiple distribution pathways, including print-on-demand options that:
- Allow for the opportunity for most major retailers to choose to carry your book online
- Eliminate the need for personal inventory of your book or the pressure of direct sales
- Make your book available to brick and mortar independent bookstores at wholesale prices
- Provide author copies to you at print and shipping cost which also makes economical direct-to-reader sales through your website and in-person events possible
Understanding where—and how—your book will be available is a key part of the publishing strategy.
This is also where professional guidance can prevent costly mistakes and missed opportunities. An experienced independent publisher can help you choose the right print-on-demand options to meet your longterm goals and ensure the highest possible return on your investment in the process.
5. Plan Beyond the Launch
A successful book launch is important, but it’s not the finish line.
Sustainable book success comes from long-term visibility, ongoing marketing, and strategic positioning. Leading up to your book launch and for months after, visibility and marketing opportunities might include:
- Speaking engagements
- Podcast interviews and other media appearances
- Email marketing and sales funnels
- Social media strategy and collaborations
- Companion resources or courses to support the launch momentum and extend your messaging
Publishing independently gives you the freedom to evolve and adapt strategies over time—including updating editions of your book or creating a series of books that better support your audience—something traditional models often restrict.
Final Thoughts
Publishing today doesn’t require giving up control, but it does require wisdom, support, and intentional planning.
If you’re preparing for a book and want a clear, professional path forward, we recommend starting with our Publishing Checklist, which outlines key steps and considerations for publishing independently with excellence. Download the Publishing Checklist here.
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