Interview with Self-Publisher Andrew Johnston
1. What can you tell me about your experience as a writer?
It has been difficult for roughly ten years. I was always worried about what others thought and tried to fit in. I wanted to be traditionally published and still do. I went indie in 2024 and after a year and two months, sold 1,025 books. My biggest concerns now are working on my craft and sales consistency. I have basically become a small business owner. Ultimately, I want to open up an indie bookshop.
2. What made you decide to write a book?
I write books to have a purpose in life. I’ve written each book with the intention to create worlds and inspire more reading. This feels like a good purpose to serve.
3. What circumstances brought you to the decision to self-publish your book?
I was tired of the goal posts being moved. I didn’t want to write what MSWLs wanted and knew if I did, it wouldn’t matter.
4. What has your experience as a self-publisher been like?
It was rough until May of 2025. I went viral, gained followers, and have had several interviews. My two biggest issues have been building an audience and sales consistency.
5. How do you respond to the negative stigma attached to self-publishing and self-published books?
I ignore stigmas and move forward. People will think what they want.
6. What is one very important lesson you have learned as a self-publisher so far?
You have to maintain a positive attitude. You’ll lose yourself in doubt and misery otherwise.
7. What do you know now about self-publishing that you wish you knew at the beginning?
I know why they say publishing is slow and respect it. Rushing will lead to future problems, and I have had more than my share.
8. A lot of authors of self-published books have reservations about promoting and marketing their book. Some even feel that it is a form of vanity or self-importance. What is your opinion about this?
You will never sell books or grow an audience if you do not promote. I am of a similar opinion and sometimes feel it’s why I am ignored online. However, authors need to understand that they are more than creatives. They are small business owners. You don’t pay for a cover, editing, and formatting just to allow your book to collect dust on KDP.
9. How do you promote your books and what form of book promotion has worked the best for you?
I post links with entertaining descriptions. I try to get on podcasts. I will also participate in local events. I reached over one thousand sales doing this and bringing up my books in conversations.
10. What are some other important things you have learned as a self-publisher?
Be consistent, patient, and positive. Write what you want and write more than you do anything else. There is no point in marketing and promoting if you don’t write. Authors need to have a balance, and you can’t have one without any writing.
11. Do you feel that self-publishing is a viable choice for other authors?
It's viable for people who are driven and serious. You are taking on all the responsibility. It becomes no longer viable when you don’t put in the work.
12. How do you feel that self-publishing their books has helped many unknown authors finally get the recognition their books deserve?
Recognition is earned. You cannot receive it just because you wrote a book and put it online. You have to promote, enter contests, engage with people, and put yourself out there. Recognition is earned and received once you have put in the work.
ABOUT ANDREW:
Andrew Johnston is a fantasy author from southwestern Pennsylvania. He is the author of The Scorched Hunter, The Ignited Moon, and The Discarded Knight. Andrew studies history and hangs out with his nephew when not writing. All of his books contain autistic representation as he is on the spectrum. His website is www.authorandrewjohnston.com.