Publishing vs. Launching Your Book: Why You Need to Plan for Both
When authors first dream about releasing their book into the world, they often think about one big day—hitting "publish" and celebrating.
But here’s a reality check most new (and even some experienced) authors don’t realize until it's too late: publishing and launching are two completely different processes.
Understanding the difference between publishing your book and launching your book is essential if you want to build a thriving author career—not just release one book into the void.
Let’s break it down!
What It Means to Publish Your Book
Publishing is the act of making your book available for sale.
When you publish, you upload your manuscript, cover, and metadata to platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Barnes & Noble Press, or others. Once your files are approved, your book is "live."
Your book can be ordered.
Your ISBN is assigned.
Readers can technically find and buy your book.
But here’s the catch: just being available doesn’t guarantee readers will know about it.
Publishing without launching is like opening a restaurant without telling anyone. The doors are open, but no one's coming in because no one knows it exists.
Why It Means to Launch Your Book
Launching your book is the act of intentionally promoting and celebrating your book's release to create momentum, visibility, and sales.
A book launch involves:
Building anticipation before your release date
Creating a marketing plan (email, social media, ads, etc.)
Engaging readers, influencers, and ARC teams
Planning events (virtual or in-person)
Pitching podcasts, blogs, and media outlets
Strategically boosting your book’s visibility in the marketplace
You create excitement.
You generate buzz.
You give your book the best chance to succeed.
A strong launch gives your book an initial surge of visibility, which can lead to better rankings, more reviews, and longer-term sales success.
In short: Publishing makes your book available. Launching makes your book visible.
Publishing makes your book available. Launching makes your book visible.
Why You Need to Plan for Both
A mistake I see often is authors focusing only on the publishing checklist—formatting, uploading, getting the ISBN—without building a real launch strategy.
Here’s why that’s a problem:
Without a launch, your book may never reach the readers who would love it.
The first few weeks after publication are crucial for building early momentum.
A planned launch can drive reviews, word-of-mouth marketing, and future opportunities (like bookstore events or collaborations).
A solid launch can increase sales for books already in your catalog.
Launching isn’t about being "salesy"—it’s about honoring the work you put into your book by giving it the spotlight it deserves.
You don’t have to be pushy or extroverted. You just need a clear, consistent plan to help your book find its readers.
Simple Steps to Publish AND Launch Successfully
You don’t need a huge team or a massive budget to publish and launch well. You just need intentionality and a plan tailored to your goals and resources.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Before Publishing:
Finalize a professional-quality manuscript (editing, formatting, cover design)
Research the best platforms for your goals (e.g., wide distribution vs. Amazon-only)
Prepare your book’s metadata (title, subtitle, categories, keywords, description)
Set up your author accounts and claim your ISBNs
Before Launching:
Build an ARC team (early readers who leave reviews)
Create a social media content plan (teasers, behind-the-scenes, countdowns)
Set up a pre-order campaign if possible
Prepare your email list with launch updates and special offers
Pitch yourself to podcasts, blogs, and local media
Plan a launch day event or online celebration
During Launch:
Share real-time updates and behind-the-scenes moments
Engage with readers on social media
Run giveaways or promotions if aligned with your strategy
Send reminders to your ARC team and mailing list to leave reviews
After Launch:
Keep the momentum going!
Share reviews, features, or fan photos
Plan future promotions and collaborations to extend your book’s visibility
Start thinking about your next project
Publishing Without Launching Leaves Opportunity on the Table
If you’ve already published without launching—it’s not too late! You can still run a “relaunch” or plan promotions to reignite interest in your book.
But if you’re preparing to publish, building your launch strategy now will save you stress and help you make a bigger impact.
Publishing and launching are two sides of the same coin. When you plan for both, you give your book—and yourself—the best possible chance at long-term success.
Your book deserves to be celebrated. You deserve to be seen.
Final Thoughts: You’re Building a Career, Not Just Releasing a Book
If you dream of making writing a bigger part of your life—whether full-time or as a passion-fueled side career—understanding the difference between publishing and launching is essential.
Treat every book you release like the opportunity it is: not just to make a sale, but to build a relationship with readers and grow your brand.
Publishing is the beginning. Launching is what helps your story take flight.
P.S. Letters From Story Flow is your bi-weekly resource for authors who are ready to grow their careers with clarity and ease—without relying on hustle-heavy strategies that don’t feel like you.
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