Almost every day someone walks into Medina bookshop carrying a manuscript, or tells me they've just finished writing a book.

The excitement is wonderful to see. Writing a book is no small achievement, and every author deserves to feel proud of reaching the finish line.

The next question is almost always the same:

"How do I get it published?"

My first piece of advice is always this: don't rush.

There are many reputable companies that offer publishing services, but there are also businesses whose customers aren't readers—they're authors. They know how much you want to hold your book in your hands, and they're very good at selling that dream.

Before spending thousands of pounds on a publishing package, take a step back and ask yourself a few questions.

Who is going to read my book?

How will readers discover it?

What marketing is actually included?

Who owns the rights to my work?

And, perhaps most importantly, who is taking the financial risk?

Publishing a book and printing a book are not the same thing.

A beautifully printed copy is something to treasure, but it doesn't guarantee that people will buy or even discover it.

Every day, around 550 new books are published in the UK. Your book isn't just competing with those released this week—it's competing with millions already available. The challenge isn't getting your book printed; it's getting it noticed.

One option that's often overlooked is to publish online first. Share your writing through a blog, newsletter or reader platform. Build an audience. Listen to feedback. If you decide to publish later, you'll already have people who know your work and want to read more.

Above all, don't let excitement pressure you into signing the first contract that lands in your inbox. The publishing industry rewards informed decisions, not rushed ones.

If you're new to publishing, I'd strongly recommend spending an evening reading these excellent free resources before committing your money:

• The IBPA article, The Mystery of the Disappearing Discount, which explains how book distribution and pricing really work:
  https://pubspot.ibpa-online.org/article/the-mystery-of-the-disappearing-discount-how-i-learned-about-distribution-fees-on-ingramspark
• The Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi):
  https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org
• Jane Friedman, whose website is one of the best sources of publishing advice you'll find:
  https://janefriedman.com
• Writer Beware, which has helped authors avoid scams and questionable publishing practices for many years:
  https://writerbeware.blog/

As a bookseller, I love seeing local authors succeed. I want your book to find readers, not just a place on your shelf.

Take your time.

Ask questions.

Do your homework.

The best publishing decision is almost always an informed one.