Have you written a book but don’t know what to do next? This course will walk you through every stage of the self-publishing process, from editing and formatting to distribution and marketing. Whether your manuscript is still rough or polished, you’ll learn how to take your book from draft to publication and beyond. We’ll cover developmental, proof, and copy-editing techniques and introduce the best formatting tools and software, making your book look professional in both print and digital formats. You’ll explore key distribution platforms, including Amazon, IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital, learning the pros and cons of each. Marketing is essential for any author, so we’ll discuss strategies for promoting your book on social media, building an author platform, and connecting with readers through newsletters and ads. Plus, we’ll cover how to sell your book both online and in person, whether through book signings, local bookstores, or events. We’ll also address common scams and pitfalls in the self-publishing world and share all the little-known details that can make or break your journey. By the end of this course, you’ll be ready to take full control of your publishing career with confidence. James Blakey has published fifty short stories across a variety of genres. He is a three-time finalist for the Short Mystery Fiction Society’s Derringer Award, winning in 2019 for his story ‘The Bicycle Thief.’ He leads critique groups in Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, and Shenandoah County. He serves as the Secretary for the Rocktown Writers Guild. His paranormal thriller SUPERSTITION was published by City Owl Press in September of 2024. He is the publisher and co-editor of CHARLOTTESVILLE FANTASTIC: Arcane Echoes from Virginia’s Heartland, a fantasy anthology of twenty stories set in and around Charlottesville.