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New from Sibyl Writing Craft!
Anyone can self-publish a book.
But publishing well—creating a book that sells and building a sustainable writing career—takes strategy, persistence, and a deep understanding of the hard truths about the publishing world.
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Tough Love for Indie Authors: An Honest Look at What it Takes to Win in Self-Publishing
By Keri-Rae Barnam
Foreword by Amy Collins
296 pages
Publishing: February 10, 2026
Paper ISBN: 9798897400065 |$20
Ebook ISBN: 9798897400072 | $9.99
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In this no-nonsense guide, publishing expert Keri-Rae Barnum lays out what actually works in self-publishing—and what doesn’t. Whether you’re chasing bestseller lists, aiming for a full-time author career, or wondering why your book isn’t selling, this book delivers clear-eyed advice grounded in real-world experience.
You’ll learn:
- What separates successful indie authors from those who struggle
- How to publish like a pro—from editing and design to distribution
- What really drives book sales beyond spammy social media
- Why treating your writing like a business is non-negotiable
- How indie publishing can open doors to agents, traditional deals, and foreign rights
See the full table of contents
This isn’t a feel-good pep talk or a shortcut scheme. Tough Love for Indie Authors is a practical roadmap for authors ready to ditch the “overnight success” myth and build something lasting.
“Tough Love for Indie Authors left me feeling empowered and confident in my journey.”
—Elle Mott, Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library
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About the author
Keri-Rae Barnum is the owner and CEO of New Shelves Books, a full-service publishing consulting and book marketing agency. A leading expert in indie publishing, she has helped hundreds of authors grow successful careers through strategic launches, platform building, and innovative marketing. Learn more at NewShelves.com.
“Engaging, accessible, and easy to digest… backed by someone who actually knows what they’re doing.”
—Barbara Hinske, USA Today bestselling indie author
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Learn from Keri-Rae Barnum: The Tough Love Publishing Intensive at Sibyl Writing Craft
Ready to go deeper? Keri-Rae Barnum brings the core principles of Tough Love for Indie Authors off the page and into practice with a focused, no-fluff course series designed to help you move forward—clearly and strategically.
The Tough Love Publishing Intensive:
Get Real. Get Ready. Get Published.
This high-impact series delivers honest answers to the questions authors are often afraid to ask. Whether you’re still weighing publishing paths, wondering if your book is truly ready, or craving straight talk about what comes next, these sessions give you clarity, confidence, and a practical roadmap.
👉 Take all three sessions for $145, or enroll individually.
Three Sessions. One Clear Path Forward.
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WEBINAR • Thursday, February 19, 2026
5pm-6:15pm PST (8pm EST)
The Path to Publication with Keri-Rae Barnum
Before you can publish, you need to decide how. This foundational session explores the pros, cons, and realities of traditional, hybrid, and indie publishing paths. No hype, no agenda—just the clear, practical info you need to make the best choice for your book and your goals.
Key Takeaway:
A personalized plan for your next steps based on your publishing path.
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WEBINAR • Thursday, February 26, 2026
5pm-6:15pm PST (8pm EST)
Are You Actually Ready to Publish? A Tough Love Reality Check for Aspiring Authors with Amy Collins
Choosing a publishing path is one thing—being truly ready to publish is another. In this brutally honest session, literary agent and industry veteran Amy Collins walks authors through a clear-eyed evaluation of their manuscript’s market viability, their business readiness, and the most common pitfalls that sabotage debut authors.
Key Takeaway:
A realistic assessment of your book and career readiness—so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
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WEBINAR • Thursday, March 5, 2026
5pm-6:15pm PST (8pm EST)
Ask Us Anything — A Live Publishing Strategy Q&A Panel
Bring your questions and get real-time answers from professionals who’ve worked across every corner of the publishing industry. Whether you’re still unsure which path is right, stuck on a pitch strategy, or trying to figure out how to market your book, this is your chance to get personal advice and insider insight.
Key Takeaway: Clarity, confidence, and custom guidance to move forward.
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