This is a list of resources helpful to first time self-publishers. Veteran self-pubs may find a new resource or two here as well!
Note: Anything that does not have a free, non-trial version will have a strike through the title it to denote that it is a resource that must be paid for to use.
Last Updated on 02/25/2019
Word Processing
Write your book with these programs!
Editing
These are all paid services, with varying price points and packages.
The Editorial Freelancers Association
Mechanics & Grammar
Great for when you can’t remember a rule, or if you need to learn a new one.
The Chicago Manual of Style Online
The Chicago Manual of Style Q&A
TIO: How to Punctuate Dialogue
Blogging Platforms
Most are free to start, but have paid options with more benefits, such as a unique domain name and no ads.
Fonts
All sources provide free fonts that are available for commercial and private use, unless otherwise indicated.
Art & Graphic Design
These are the places you’ll go to commission illustrations, and/or a cover for your work. They are free to browse, but the artists here will charge a fee for you to commission them.
Stock Photos
Use these for your cover, website, or for promotional materials. Please read and follow the attribution and usage rules, as they vary from site to site–and sometimes from image to image.
[Note: User Account needed to download free images]
[Note: User Account needed to download full resolution images]
Conversion
Turn your saved, edited document into an e-book.
Format Checking
In lieu of these you can also download a copy of your e-book to a smartphone or eReader to view it on a native device, if you own one.
Self-Publishing Platforms
Most are free but have paid options with more features, such as designers and technicians on call to assist you any time. These companies will distribute your book to all major retailers on your behalf as long as it passes their quality test.
[Note: Only distributes to Amazon. Can be Exclusive with enrollment in KDP Select.]
[Note: Does not distribute to Amazon at this time]
Promotion
A good portion of these links are to social media sites. Social Media is a large aspect of book promotion nowadays, and utilizing every resource you can is important!
[Note: You can only register for an account and post from the app.]
Search Engine Optimization Guide [SEO]
Writing Discussions & Communities
Talk about writing with other writers!
Light Novel Specific Resources
Sadly, there are very few right now. I will update this as I discover more!
[Similar to Wattpad, but for web fiction.]
[A place to find and discuss all manner of Light Novel.]
So You Want to Write Your Own Light Novel?
[My own guide to writing a Light Novel!]
~End of List~