Update December 2019:
Well it has been an enjoyable journey, learning along the way. I will share my experience of the process of self-publishing so far.
Stock
It was actually a great help with the gift of ten books to test the market, and to get the books to Egypt. I have placed books in various outlets in El Gouna and Hurghada. The cost of buying these books to always have them on display would have been very high.
VAT
In the UK there is zero VAT on orders of books. Around the world VAT on books varies i.e. 6% Belgium, 8% Germany, 25% Denmark. Something I had to consider when friends offer to bring books back to Egypt for me.
Easy Jet
I returned to the UK in October and brought back 20 books. The cost of the suitcase, luggage costs in the hold of the aircraft, and import duty on books if they search your suitcase when you land have to be considered. 5% duty for Egypt, and I didn't want to take an empty suitcase in the hold on the journey to the UK.
Blurb
I have loved dealing with Blurb. And the quality of the books is 100% on every order. The books are print on demand, so if one person wants one copy it is printed and delivered usually within ten days.
They sell the books online in their store, but I only got a few sales from my own marketing with the link.
Amazon
I didn't share the book via Blurb onto Amazon as this would have increased the price by 15% on both sites. I did however post the eBook version on Amazon but have received zero sales.
Book Signing
This is the most popular way of selling the books. Everyone would like a signed copy and really appreciate the extra words of a personal message written with the signature.
Hotel next door
This is where the kestrels live but very few sales at the book signings. They are not buying anything. Sadly my friend is already considering closing her beautiful Egyptian crafts gift shop. All-inclusive guests (average age 60) are rarely supporting any of the shops in the hotel parade.
Marketing
At least the book signing events have kept the awareness going on social media, even if I only sold one copy of the book.
Website and Facebook
I created a website and Facebook page. The website is good for an immediate summary of the book and launch pad to buy online. Facebook is good to keep updated with the news about the kestrels outside my window, and advertise the book signing events.
So, in summary, I have sold 42 copies of the book in total which I am absolutely thrilled about. I still have some stock here in Egypt which, two more books and I will actually break even. Each time I get to that position, I need to invest hundreds of pounds in more books but with this stock I should see a profit at last.
I have loved the journey, and the comments from those who did purchase the book have been just wonderful.
And in case anyone is in El Gouna for Christmas, you can find me on 20th at the next Christmas Bazaar in the marina: