Celebrating Growth: The Journey of Self-Publishing
- Crystal Leonardi
- Feb 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 17
Last week, I attended the launch of Heart Full of Storm, a new MM Paranormal Romance by JB Thomas. It should have felt like just another book launch—but for me, it was something much more personal.
JB has published four novels with me: Rose Red, Tarot Moon, 1999, and The Longest Night. So when he told me his next book would be self-published, I’ll be honest—I felt it.
My first reaction was pure emotion. A little shock. A little sadness. A very definite mother bear moment. When you’ve worked closely with an author, supported them through edits, doubts, rewrites, and wins, it’s natural to feel protective of that relationship.
A Shift in Perspective
But growth has a way of shifting perspective.
Standing at JB’s launch, watching him speak confidently about his work, his process, and his journey, I realised something important: this wasn’t a departure—it was a milestone.
As an independent publisher, I love publishing authors. I love building books, shaping stories, and helping them reach readers. But publishing has never been the only part of what I do - I mentor.
The Transformation of Authors
Many of the authors I work with start out shy, introverted, and unsure of their own voice. They second-guess themselves. They struggle to take up space. Over time, something remarkable happens. Their writing sharpens. Their confidence grows. They begin to trust their instincts and understand their worth as creators.
When an author reaches the point where they can confidently engage their own editor, hire a graphic designer, and take control of their publishing path—that isn’t a rejection of what we built together. It’s proof that the work mattered.
Self-publishing requires courage. It requires belief—not just in a book, but in oneself. Watching an author step into that space tells me they no longer feel they need permission to be a writer. That’s powerful.
JB Thomas: A Case Study in Growth
JB Thomas is a wonderful example of this transformation. His growth as a writer and as a professional has been a joy to witness, and Heart Full of Storm stands as a testament to the skills, confidence, and independence he’s earned.
So yes, while I will always love publishing authors, I take just as much pride—if not more—in seeing them outgrow the need for me. Because when an author spreads their wings and flies solo, it doesn’t mean I’ve lost something. It means I’ve done my job. And that, to me, is the greatest success of all.
The Importance of Self-Publishing
Self-publishing is not just a trend; it’s a revolution. It empowers writers to take control of their narratives and share their stories with the world. The freedom to publish on one’s own terms is liberating. It allows for creativity without constraints.
Imagine the thrill of holding your book in your hands, knowing every decision was yours. The cover design, the editing choices, the marketing strategies—all crafted by you. This journey is not just about the end product; it’s about the growth you experience along the way.
Building a Supportive Community
At Bowerbird Publishing, we strive to create a community where writers can thrive. We understand the challenges of the publishing world. That's why we offer professional, cost-effective services. We want to be a supportive alternative to traditional publishing.
Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where every writer feels valued. We believe that every story deserves to be told, and we are here to help make that happen.
The Future of Publishing
As we look to the future, the landscape of publishing continues to evolve. Writers are no longer limited to traditional routes. They have options. They can choose to self-publish, collaborate with small presses, or pursue traditional avenues.
This diversity enriches the literary world. It brings new voices to the forefront. It challenges the status quo. And it creates a vibrant tapestry of stories that reflect our shared human experience.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
In conclusion, the journey of self-publishing is one of empowerment and growth. It’s about finding your voice and sharing it with the world. It’s about building a community that supports and uplifts one another.
As I reflect on JB’s journey, I am filled with pride. His success is a reminder of why I do what I do. It’s not just about publishing books; it’s about nurturing talent and celebrating growth.
So, to all the writers out there: embrace your journey. Trust in your voice. And remember, you are not alone.
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