Indie Author Launch Checklist
Work through optional publishing and launch tasks, and keep track on this device.
Open the checklistStories That Endure · Author Resources
Author Resources
Clear, practical starting points for independent authors preparing a book, presenting their work, and planning what comes next.
FIELD NOTES01—06CREST&EMBER
Interactive field notes
Plan the work at your own pace.
Two private, browser-based tools to help organize a book launch.
Choose a release date · print-friendly
Book Launch Timeline Builder
Build a practical backward-planned schedule around your intended release date.
Build a timelineThe guide library
A steady next step, wherever you are in the process.
01
Getting started
A First-Time Indie Author’s Roadmap to Publishing
Begin with the reader and the kind of book you are making. Finish and prepare the manuscript, choose production and distribution options, build a clear listing, then plan a launch that fits your time and resources.
Read the guide02
Readers & reviews
What ARC Readers Are and When to Use Them
An ARC is a prepublication copy shared with selected readers. Set expectations, share a clear and usable file, respect each reader’s choice, and check current retailer and disclosure rules before inviting reviews.
Read the guide03
Book presentation
Building a Strong Amazon/KDP Book Description
Lead with a relevant hook, make the book’s premise or practical scope concrete, use readable formatting, and review the listing after it goes live. Keep every claim true to the book.
Read the guide04
Formats & production
Paperback vs. Hardcover for Indie Authors
Paperback and hardcover differ in feel, production details, and sometimes availability or cost. Review current specifications and actual quotes for your book rather than relying on a universal rule.
Read the guide05
Author presence
What Belongs in an Author Bio?
Choose accurate details that help readers understand your connection to the work. Prepare a short and a longer version, keep the voice natural, and verify every credential and link.
Read the guide06
Launch planning
Preparing for Your Book Launch
Work backward from a flexible publication window. Confirm the files and listing, prepare a few useful messages, invite voluntary early readers if appropriate, and leave space for corrections and follow-up.
Read the guideOptional support
Need help with a piece of the work?
Author Services offers the following listed options. Each link leads to the existing service page for its scope and enquiry details.
These services do not publish, represent, endorse, or acquire rights to clients’ books. Authors retain their rights.
Stories That Endure.