Things I Wish I Knew Before Publishing My First Book

Publishing your first book is exciting — like standing at the edge of a dream and finally diving in. But if you’re anything like me, it also comes with a hundred questions, doubts, and surprises you never saw coming. Looking back now, I realise there are so many things I wish someone had told me before I jumped into publishing. So, whether you're a first-time writer or someone who’s been holding on to a manuscript for years, this blog is for you.

Here are a few honest truths I learned the hard way:

1. Writing the Book is Just the Beginning

You think the hard part is over once you’ve written your last sentence, right? Not really. Finishing your book is just the first step. What comes next — editing, designing, formatting, marketing, distributing — is a whole different journey.

I was shocked by how much work goes into the “after writing” part. It’s not meant to scare you, but to prepare you. Be ready to treat your book like a project, not just a story.

2. Editing is Your Best Friend (Even If It Hurts)

When I first got my manuscript back from the editor, I felt… attacked. So many suggestions, cuts, and red marks! But over time, I realised that editing isn’t a criticism — it’s polishing. It’s someone helping your book become the best version of itself.

Never skip the editing process. A fresh set of eyes can catch things you missed — from grammar mistakes to plot holes.

Tip: Be open-minded. The editor is not your enemy. They want what you want — a great book.

3. Your Cover Matters More Than You Think

We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But let’s be honest — we all do. A book cover is the first impression. I didn’t give mine enough thought at first, but once I saw how readers reacted to a professionally designed cover, I understood the power of good design.

Your story could be amazing, but if the cover looks rushed or unprofessional, people might skip it.

Invest in a good cover. It’s worth it.

4. Self-Promotion is Not Selfish

When my book was finally published, I expected people to just… find it. But books don’t sell themselves. You need to put it out there — talk about it, share it on social media, tell your friends, join communities.

At first, I felt awkward. I didn’t want to sound like I was bragging. But then someone said to me: “If you’re proud of your work, why wouldn’t you share it?”

And that stuck with me.

Remember: You’re not showing off. You’re showing up for your book.

5. Rejections Don’t Mean You’re Not Good Enough

Before finding my publisher, I faced rejection. And each one felt personal — like they were rejecting me, not just my manuscript.

But now I know, that rejection doesn’t always mean your work is bad. Sometimes it’s just not the right fit for that publisher. Or maybe the timing isn’t right. It doesn’t mean you give up.

Every author I admire has faced rejection. And they kept going. So should you.

6. Your First Book Won’t Be Perfect (And That’s Okay)

I was obsessed with making my first book flawless. I wanted every sentence to sparkle. But here’s a truth bomb: no book is perfect. Not even bestsellers.

Mistakes happen. Typos slip through. You might even reread your book later and wish you had written a few things differently. That’s okay. It’s part of the process.

Don’t let the fear of imperfection stop you from publishing. You’ll learn, grow, and do even better next time.

7. Publishing with the Right People Makes All the Difference

I’m glad I found a publisher who believed in my voice and gave my book the attention it deserved. Not all publishers are the same. Some might promise a lot but deliver little. Others, like WissenMonk (shameless plug, I know), are small but mighty — focused, supportive, and passionate.

Do your research. Ask questions. Read their previous work. Talk to authors who’ve worked with them.

Having a good team makes this journey so much smoother.

8. Readers Will Surprise You

You never really know how your book will be received. I was nervous before the launch — what if nobody read it? What if they hated it?

But slowly, messages began to come in. People shared their favourite lines. Some told me how the book made them cry or smile. It was magical.

No matter how few or many copies you sell, if your book touches even one reader — that’s a win.

Final Thoughts

Publishing your first book is brave. It’s messy, thrilling, frustrating, and beautiful all at once. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll learn. And you’ll come out stronger, with a story that belongs to the world now.

So, to every aspiring author reading this: Go for it. Write. Edit. Ask for help. Tell your story.

And if you're looking for a publishing family that truly supports writers — you know where to find WissenMonk.

Note: Authored by a Published Author from WissenMonk who wished to maintain an anonymous identity.