The Joys of Being a Rich Author (Emotionally, Not Financially)

So here’s the ugly truth: I’ve now sold just under 10 copies of my book, had a couple of Kindle Unlimited readers, and even received some lovely reviews. Which means two things:

1- Someone out there besides my family is actually reading my book.

2- I am officially a published author… but not a millionaire.

The reviews have been wonderful, and honestly, that part feels better than money. Every time someone says their child enjoyed it, I melt a little inside.

Still, if I break down the hours spent writing, editing, hiring illustrators, formatting, fixing formatting, and then paying someone to re-fix formatting, plus marketing (aka throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks)… well, let’s just say the math isn't mathing. The math is actually screaming “expensive hobby.”

And that’s exactly how I’ve decided to see it. Like golf, or sailing, or collecting rare stamps! Self-publishing is not a get-rich-quick plan. It’s more like a get-proud-slowly plan. You invest time, energy, and money, and the return comes in joy, pride, and the occasional royalty notification that covers maybe half a sandwich, from McDonald's, on a 99p discount meal.

But you know what? I’ll take it!

I am now seeing my words out in the world, bringing smiles to children, and reminding myself that stories are worth sharing, even if they cost me more than they earn.

So here I am: an author with under 10 sales, a handful of KU page reads, and a heart that feels richer than my bank account.

And honestly, that’s enough. For now. 😉