Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: Why I Prefer Self-Publishing
Every author wants the same thing: to see their story honored, published, and shared. But the path to publication can look very different depending on which route you choose — traditional publishing or self-publishing.
As a memoir ghostwriter and developmental editor, I’ve had a front-row seat to both worlds. I’ve worked with clients navigating every corner of the publishing industry — from first-time authors to high-profile figures with book deals in hand. And what I’ve seen again and again is this:
Independent publishing often gives authors more freedom, more creative control, and ultimately, more success.
Why Traditional Publishing and Landing a Book Deal Isn’t Always the Dream
There’s a perception that landing a book deal means you’ve “made it.” But what many don’t realize is how precarious — and disempowering — the traditional publishing process can be.
Here are some of the challenges authors frequently face:
Long Timelines and Little Control. Even after signing a deal, your book might not be published for two years or more. You’ll have limited say in key decisions — from cover design to marketing strategy.
Fragmented Advance Payments. That six-figure advance? It’s often split into pieces — a payment when you sign, another payment when you submit the manuscript, and a payment often a year after publication. These payments can stretch across multiple years, and many authors end up earning far below minimum wage for their time spent addressing editor notes and revising the draft based on the goal of the publishing house.
Editorial Misalignment. I’ve seen clients receive notes from publishers that compromise the very heart of their story. In the worst cases, books are shelved entirely if the acquiring editor leaves — which means the book (and its author) are now “orphaned” at their publishing house. This can lead to a book never seeing the light of day, or looking very different from the author’s original vision.
Burden of Marketing. Traditional publishers increasingly expect authors to market their books independently. Many authors pay out of pocket for publicists, social media campaigns, and even launch events — all while the publisher retains the bulk of the book’s revenue.
Pressure to Perform. If your book doesn’t “earn out” its advance (meaning it doesn’t generate enough sales to justify the upfront payment), your chances of securing another deal may diminish — regardless of the book’s quality or impact.
For memoirists in particular, this system can feel especially discouraging, especially as you’re telling deeply personal, vulnerable stories.
Why I Recommend Self-Publishing for Memoir Clients
Self-publishing, when done well, is not a solo endeavor. It’s independent — not isolating.
Most of my clients who self-publish do so with a team: designers, editors, marketers, and consultants. Together, we create a book that’s not only professional but personal — shaped by the author’s vision rather than a publishing committee’s preferences.
Here’s why self-publishing often makes more sense:
Creative Control. You choose your cover, your title, your timeline. You decide which feedback to take and which to ignore. The story stays yours — from the first word to the final page.
Speed to Market. Instead of waiting years, your book can be published in months. This is especially helpful for thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and public figures who want to align book launches with business goals or life milestones.
Ownership and Royalties. You retain the rights to your work — and earn a larger share of the profits from every copy sold.
Flexibility and Freedom. You can update your book post-publication, publish companion editions, and experiment with formats like audiobooks or digital downloads without waiting for approval.
Support on Your Terms. With the right team — including a ghostwriter or developmental editor — you can produce a book that matches or even exceeds the quality of traditionally published titles.
The Rise of Independent Publishing
We’re in the middle of a major shift. More authors than ever are choosing self-publishing — not as a fallback, but as a first choice.
That’s because the publishing landscape has changed. With the rise of platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and others, high-quality independent books are reaching readers directly — no middleman required.
I’ve helped clients successfully publish memoirs that have landed them speaking engagements, media attention, and new business opportunities. Not because they waited for someone else’s permission — but because they invested in telling their story their way.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Every author has different goals. If your dream is to see your book on the shelves at a major retailer with a traditional publisher’s logo on the spine, that’s a valid pursuit — and I’m happy to help you prepare for that path.
But if you value ownership, speed, and the ability to shape your own legacy, self-publishing may be the better fit.
Either way, you don’t have to go it alone.
Work With Amy | How I Help My Clients Publish Their Books on Amazon
If you want your book to stand out — to reach readers, reflect your story, and create lasting impact in your own life — working with an expert can make all the difference.
I work with high-achieving clients who are ready to invest in telling their story with clarity, depth, and professionalism. Here’s how I can help:
Memoir Ghostwriting. For clients seeking a full-service, done-for-you experience, I specialize in writing memoirs and nonfiction books for founders, public figures, and inspiring individuals looking to preserve their legacy and share their story with the world. I bring structure, storytelling expertise, and a collaborative process that ensures the final book is true to your voice and vision.
Developmental Editing. If you already have a draft, I offer deep structural editing to help elevate and refine your work. I focus on memoirs, select nonfiction genres, and occasionally fiction. Developmental editing is about transforming your manuscript’s architecture — shaping it into a book that’s engaging, clear, and built to last.
Publishing Support and Referrals. For ghostwriting and editing clients, I also offer consulting to guide you through self-publishing on Amazon KDP. I connect you with trusted partners for design, formatting, and marketing so you’re fully supported from manuscript to launch.
I only take on a limited number of clients each year, so if you’re ready to invest in your story, reach out via the contact form below and tell me more about you and your book:
