There are many steps in the publishing process. To answer this question fully, we need to consider each of these steps.

– Can you write a book for free? Yes, if you write it by yourself. If you want someone else to write your book (ghostwriting) you’ll pay for it, even if you provide almost all the content.

– Can you edit your book for free? Yes, you can edit yourself or have a friend do it,  If you want a professional editor to work on your manuscript, review it, fix errors, and improve your final text, it won’t be free.

– Can you design your book for free (cover—front spine and back—and interior layout)? Yes, if you do it yourself. If you are not a trained designer and don’t know how to professionally create and style a book (99% of authors don’t), you will have to pay someone to do it for you.

– Can you publish the book for free? And for publish we mean setting up the distribution system and making your book available for sale. Again, if you do it yourself, yes, it’s free. If you want guidance on how to price your book, optimize your distribution, and maximize your royalty, you’ll need to pay an expert to teach you or do it for you.

– Can I market my book for free? Yes, if you have the expertise to build an author website, author platform, and author marketing plan.

So, is self-publishing free?

It can be, but it depends on the level of professionalism you want in the result. Do you want a professionally edited, designed, and published book? A book that can compete and be considered on a par with those traditionally published? Then, you are better off hiring professionals to help you publish your book.

 Odyssa Media has many options available to find the help you need. We offer professional services at an affordable price. You can choose among our complete publishing packages or pick what you need with our a la carte book services.