Self-Publishing: A Lucrative Side Gig to Consider
The rise of BookTok and the insatiable appetite of readers for genres like cozy fantasy and romance have led many budding authors to forgo traditional publishing routes in favor of self-publishing.
While social media is awash with tales of “six-figure authors,” the truth is less glamorous. Expenses like printing, marketing, editing, and Amazon fees can all nibble away at profits, and success seldom materializes overnight.
To delve into the reality of self-publishing, I sat down with debut author Alexis Rose, who made the bold move to independently publish her first fantasy novel after leaving her job in January 2026. Just four months later, she is already reaping the rewards of her hard work and garnering a dedicated following.
“It hasn’t been smooth sailing,” she confesses. “But with dedication, success is attainable.”
Alexis spent months preparing for her leap into self-publishing, diligently crafting one-and-a-half books in 2025 to ensure a close release schedule. Her novels, “The Wellbegood Witches Part One” and “Part Two,” comprise a dark cozy fantasy duology with a central paranormal mystery.
Unlike traditional publishing, where gaps between book releases can span years, self-published authors often adhere to a “rapid release” strategy to keep readers engaged. Alexis notes the expectation for quicker releases in self-publishing compared to the traditional route.
However, she stresses that speed should never compromise quality. Rather than relying on AI-generated content, she advocates for a focus on honing writing skills and crafting compelling narratives.
Choosing urban fantasy due to her passion for the genre and its loyal fan base, Alexis highlights the importance of selecting a genre with a dedicated readership.
While trends in publishing evolve rapidly, Alexis underscores the significance of genuine storytelling over simply chasing market trends for financial gain. She warns against sacrificing authenticity for profit, emphasizing the discerning nature of readers.
One crucial decision for self-published authors is whether to create standalone works or series. Alexis champions series for their long-term earning potential, noting the immediate demand from readers for subsequent installments.
Alexis’s diverse income streams include Kindle Unlimited enrollment for her ebooks, with earnings based on reader engagement, and plans to expand distribution through IngramSpark. Live events and upcoming audiobook releases are also essential components of her strategy.
Despite selling around 1,000 copies of her books in four months, Alexis underscores the impact of costs on profits, emphasizing the necessity of reinvesting earnings into marketing for sustained visibility.
Self-publishing, Alexis highlights, is akin to managing a small business rather than pursuing a hobby, requiring patience and consistency for long-term success.
While self-publishing may seem straightforward on social media, Alexis advises against prioritizing speed over quality, urging aspiring authors to view the venture as a gradual, profitable endeavor.
In essence, self-publishing demands dedication, quality, and a strategic approach to resonate with readers and build a sustainable author brand.
