Self-publishing is a bit like trying to parallel park a tractor on the Shankill Road, dead tricky at first, but pure class when you pull it off. Last year, about 200,000 self-published books hit the shelves (or Kindles), all created by UK authors. Writers from Derry to Downpatrick are telling the big publishers to shove it, opting to write publish books their own way. Thing is, to make your story a belter, you’ve got to pick the right genre and theme while dodging the usual traps, doubt, procrastination, and that nagging “is this pure mince?” feeling.
No need to panic, you brave Northern Irish scribblers! This guide’s here to walk you through the top book genres and themes for self-publishers, tackle the struggles that’d wreck your head, and throw in a few laughs to keep you sane. By the end, you’ll be ready to join Belfast’s cafe creative writers supping lattes or online creative writers tapping away from Lisburn to Larne, buzzing with ideas and a fresh dose of get-up-and-go. Let’s crack on, aye?
Popular Book Genres: Your Literary Playground
Genres are like the options at the chippy—plenty to choose from, and self-publishers are mad for them. Here’s the rundown of what’s hot:
Romance (The Swoon Factory):
Romance is the big boss of self-publishing, nabbing nearly 40% of Kindle ebooks. From soppy love stories to steamy vampire romps (fangs and all), it’s a money-spinner. Don’t expect your grumpy cat—or your yappy wee dog—to rate your mushy lines, mind.
Fantasy (Where Dragons Roam Free):
High-fantasy quests or dodgy urban magic—fantasy’s your chance to build mad worlds and break all the rules. Perfect if you’d rather slay goblins than join the Post Office queue on a wet Monday.
Crime/Thriller (The Plot Twist Palace):
Fancy keeping folk on edge? Crime and thrillers—think cozy whodunits with nosy sleuths or dark yarns that’d give you the heebie-jeebies—are massive. Set it in a wee village where everyone’s in your business, and you’re laughing.
Science Fiction (Beam Me Up, Book Sales):
Space adventures, dystopian chaos, or geeky sci-fi with big words—science fiction’s for dreamers asking “what if?” Chuck in an alien sidekick who talks like he’s from East Belfast, and you’re sorted.
Literary Fiction (The Soul-Searcher’s Haven):
Deep, thoughtful, and a bit poetic, literary fiction’s all about the human condition. Not for anyone who thinks a plot’s just a bonus. Ideal for those dreary days when you’re stuck inside with a brew.
Non-Fiction (Truth With a Twist):
Memoirs, self-help, or quirky guides (like “How to Survive a Northern Irish Sunday Roast”) do cracking in self-publishing. Find a niche—like “Coping with Belfast Rain”—and you’re onto a winner.
Themes to Spark Your Story: The Emotional Core
Genres are the bones, but themes are the beating heart. Here’s some ideas to weave into your tale.
Love and Connection:
Romantic, matey, or family vibes—love’s what hooks readers. Skip the cheesy “love fixes all” guff unless you’re twisting it with a bit of local banter, maybe in Ulster-Scots for the craic.
Adventure and Exploration:
Send your characters on a wild ride—inside or out—and readers’ll tag along. You get to explore too, no need to trek up Slieve Donard in the drizzle.
Mystery and Suspense:
A decent “whodunit” or “what’s next?” keeps folk hooked. Just don’t leave them dangling, or you’ll get pelters from your auntie over Sunday dinner.
Personal Growth:
Redemption, grit, or finding yourself—these hit hard. Plus, you’ll feel dead productive without stepping outside into the Baltic weather.
Social Commentary:
Justice, identity, or the planet—write something that matters. Careful, though—you might spark a row down the pub or accidentally become the next big thing.
Writing Struggles: The Monsters Under the Desk
Writing a book’s no picnic in Botanic Gardens. Self-publishers hit some rough patches, but we’ve got you covered:
Motivation (The Elusive Muse):
Some days, writing’s like herding sheep in a gale. Beat the slump with wee goals—50 words, one paragraph—and treat yourself to a Tayto crisp sarnie or a cuppa. Even the big shots probably had to bribe themselves with a pint.
Validity (Am I Legit?):
Here’s the scoop: if you’re writing, you’re a writer. Self-publishing’s not second-rate—it’s a booming game where you can out-earn the fancy traditional lot. Tell imposter syndrome to wise up and sling its hook.
Confidence (Will This Flop?):
Every writer frets their book’ll be a dud. Boost your nerve by sharing drafts with mates or groups. Your story’s worth it, even if it’s just for your ma to brag about at the bingo.
Trending Keywords: What’s Hot in Writing Land
When it comes to write publish books, a few buzzwords are lighting up Google:
Self-Publishing:
With millions of books flooding out, folk are desperate for tips on going it alone—especially here, where everyone’s got a cousin who’s “in the know.”
Book Marketing:
Marketing’s a nightmare for most, but it’s how you get seen. Searches for “book marketing tricks” are through the roof—nobody wants to be shouting into the wind.
Creative Writing:
Aspiring authors want prompts, tips, and a shove to get going—especially when it’s too grim to leave the house.
You don’t have to write publish books solo. Whether you’re nattering over coffee with cafe creative writers in Belfast’s top spots or swapping ideas with online creative writers from Coleraine to Carrickfergus, writing groups are your lifeline. They’ll give you feedback, a pat on the back, and folk who get your obsession with semi-colons. So, grab your pen or laptop, hit a local café or Zoom call, and dive in. Your book—and your head—will thank you.
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