Self-Publishing: A Lucrative Side Gig Opportunity?
The rise of BookTok and the insatiable appetite of readers for various genres, from cozy fantasy to romance, have prompted many budding writers to forgo traditional publishing routes in favor of self-publishing.
Despite the allure of social media success stories of authors making six-figure incomes, the truth behind self-publishing is more nuanced. Authors often face significant expenses like printing costs, marketing fees, editing services, and Amazon charges that can erode profits, emphasizing that overnight success is rare.
To shed light on the realities of self-publishing, Alexis Rose, a debut author, shared her journey of leaving her job in January 2026 to independently publish her first fantasy novel. Within four months, she has begun earning from her books while steadily growing her fan base.
Acknowledging the challenges, Alexis noted, “It hasn’t been easy, but with dedication, it is achievable.”
Alexis meticulously prepared for her transition throughout 2025 by writing two books, “The Wellbegood Witches Part One” and “Part Two,” a dark cozy fantasy duology with a paranormal twist.
In contrast to traditional publishing’s lengthy gaps between book releases, self-published authors often adopt rapid-release strategies to engage readers continuously.
However, Alexis stresses that maintaining quality is paramount over speed, cautioning against the use of AI-generated content and emphasizing the importance of honing one’s writing skills.
Choosing urban fantasy due to her passion for the genre and its dedicated readership, Alexis highlighted the significance of aligning with readers’ interests rather than solely chasing market trends for financial gain.
Regarding publishing strategies, Alexis advocates for series over standalone novels for long-term success, citing the advantages of reader engagement and subscription services like Kindle Unlimited.
While self-publishing offers various income streams, including Kindle Unlimited royalties and future audiobook ventures, authors must reinvest profits into marketing for sustained visibility.
In emphasizing the business-like nature of self-publishing, Alexis underscores the essential investment in professional editing and the gradual development of additional assets like audiobooks and special editions.
Cautioning against rushed decisions and prioritizing quality over speed, Alexis advises aspiring authors to view self-publishing as a long-term endeavor that, with patience and consistency, can yield profits.
With her upcoming novel set to launch in Autumn 2026 and a lineup of projects under her pen name Willow Beaux, Alexis exemplifies the potential for success in self-publishing through dedication and strategic planning.
