Self-publishing isn’t free—and it’s not cheap—but it doesn’t have to be mysterious. This guide breaks down real-world costs for editing, covers, formatting, ISBNs, marketing, and ads, with honest ranges, budgeting advice, and a free spreadsheet to help you plan without panic.

So you want to publish a book—but no one told you about editing stages, cover timelines, or why marketing matters before launch. Let Hawthorn & Aster’s resident gay bookish auntie walk you through the process with clarity, humor, and real-world advice.