Budgeting for Your Romance Novel

Writing a romance novel is a labor of love, but bringing that book to readers requires more than just creativity. While writing is an art, publishing is a business, and just like any business, it comes with expenses.

A well-planned budget ensures you don’t overspend or get caught off guard by hidden costs. It allows you to allocate funds wisely, focusing on the areas that matter most. By planning ahead, you can maximize your book’s potential without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher, you’ll have expenses in your authorpreneur business.  Let’s break down the essential costs, explore ways to save, and create a budget that works for you. Note that I’ve identified the sections or categories that are specific to indie authors. If not noted, the cost is for both indie and traditional authors.

1. Writing & Pre-Production Costs

Before your romance novel is ready for readers, there’s a crucial phase of investment in writing and refining your manuscript. From the tools you use to the expert feedback you receive, every step in the pre-production process shapes the quality of your book.

Writing Expenses

While writing itself may not have a direct price tag, it does require a significant investment of time, effort, and resources. Here are a few areas where budgeting can help you improve efficiency and output:

• Time Investment: Writing a book takes hundreds of hours, and while it’s easy to overlook, your time is valuable. If you’re balancing writing with another job or personal commitments, consider the opportunity cost and ways to optimize your writing process.
• Writing Software: While free tools like Google Docs or Word’s basic version are available, investing in specialized writing software can enhance productivity. Options include:
  • • Scrivener($59 one-time purchase – PC and Mac) – Scrivener combines word processing with organization of data, plotting/outlining, notes, and more. It has a pretty steep learning curve, but its a lot of bells and whistles for one low price.
    • Atticus ($147 one-time purchase) – Combines writing and formatting tools.
    • Microsoft Word ($139.99 one-time or $6.99/month for Office 365, or lite free version) – The old standard now in Word Processing. For years I’d buy the CD and use forever, but two years ago I switched to Office 365. Word has many detractors, but I write everything in Word, the editor tool is pretty good (including sensitivity screening), it can transcribe dictation, and more.
    • ProWritingAid or Grammarly (Free–$120/year) – Helps with grammar and style improvement, such as finding filler words, passive voice, etc. Both have apps to use with Word. AI is now included to help you re-write, and they offer plagiarism screening (sometimes costing extra) if you have any concerns about accidental plagiarism (because of course you wouldn’t do that on purpose). I use the free version of ProWritingAid for my online writing (like this blog or email).
    • Autocrit (Free, $15 (if make annual payment) or $30 per month) – This is my go-to editing revision tool beyond grammar and spelling. You can write within the platform (like writing in Atticus) plus it has digital notecards. For editing, it will screen for adverbs, readability, and word choice in the free option. But the tool really shines in the pro plan. You can get a summary report and score for overview of what you do great and what needs work. Get reports and editing recommendations on pacing, dialogue and how to boost your writing quality. Switching tense? Autocrit can help you find the times you messed it up.
• Courses, Workshops, and Coaching: I’m a big believer that authors should attend events. Even experienced authors continue learning, but you can get so much more, including networking, book sales and more. Beyond that, courses and coaching can help you inprove your craft, boost sales and more. Costs vary widely:
  • Online courses: $50–$500: There are courses for writing, marketing, setting up a direct sales process, ads and more. I like to check writer Facebook groups or here at Write with Harte for recommended courses.
  • Conferences & workshops: $100–$1,500: These can be expensive with travel, hotel, registration, meals, etc, but I think they’re so worth it just for the energy you get hanging with your writer tribe. You can see a list of upcoming events posted here at Write with Harte.
  • Book coaching: $500–$5,000+: This too can get expensive, but my writing improved a zillion percent due to great coaching/editing. Granted, I got it from my agent, which didn’t cost me anything, but if necessary, I’d pay for it now. Seek references when looking for a book coach.

Developmental Editing

Once your draft is complete, a developmental editor can help shape your story, strengthening its structure, pacing, and emotional impact. This is one of the most critical investments for any romance author, as an engaging and well-paced story keeps readers turning pages. Traditional authors will sometimes get a developmental edit from an agent, and definitely through a publisher. However, getting one prior to submission can vastly improve your chances of being accepted by an agent/publisher.

• Why It’s Important:
  • Ensures compelling character arcs and emotional depth.
  • Fixes plot holes and strengthens narrative flow.
  • Helps balance tension, romance, and subplots.
• Cost Range:
  • Budget-friendly editors: $500–$1,000 for an 80,000-word novel.
  • Experienced editors: $1,500–$2,500+, depending on genre expertise and depth of feedback.
  • DIY Alternatives: If hiring an editor isn’t feasible, consider peer critique groups, writing partners, or alpha readers, but remember that professional insight is invaluable.

Beta Readers & Sensitivity Readers

Before heading into final edits, getting outside feedback on the reader experience is crucial. Beta readers and sensitivity readers provide a fresh perspective and can help identify issues that might have been overlooked.

• Alpha/Beta Readers:
  • Provide general feedback on plot, pacing, and character development. Done pre-editor, it’s usually considered alpha reading. Done post editor and just prior to publishing, it’s beta reading to find the final buts. Alpha readers can be your critique group or avid romance readers. Beta readers are generally avid romance readers and those in your ARC and/or street team.
  • Can be found in writing communities, author groups, or among avid romance readers.
  • Cost: Many beta readers volunteer, but professional beta readers charge $50–$200 per read.
• Sensitivity Readers:
  • Ensure accurate and respectful representation of diverse experiences (e.g., race, disability, LGBTQ+, cultural backgrounds).
  • Cost: Typically $100–$500, depending on expertise and book length.

While beta readers are optional for some authors, they’re invaluable in identifying weak spots before a professional editor steps in. Sensitivity readers, on the other hand, are a must when writing outside your own lived experience to avoid unintentional harm or inaccuracies.

2. Editing & Formatting Costs

Once your manuscript is written and refined through developmental edits and beta reader feedback, it’s time for the final polishing stages: copyediting, proofreading, and formatting. These steps ensure your book meets professional standards, helping it stand out in a competitive romance market. Note that it doesn’t hurt to hire an editor if you want to get an agent or pitch a publisher.

Copyediting & Proofreading

EVERY AUTHOR…even ones who edit, need to have an outside editor. Trust me on this. You can’t see you’re own issues because you layer what you mean to write over what you did write. Typos, grammatical mistakes, and inconsistencies can pull readers out of your story and impact reviews. Copyediting and proofreading are the last lines of defense before publication.

What Each Stage Covers:

• Copyediting – Focuses on grammar, sentence structure, clarity, and consistency. This step refines the language, ensuring your writing is polished and professional. It also addresses awkward phrasing and inconsistencies in style or character details.
• Proofreading – The final check before publishing, focusing on catching minor errors like typos, missing punctuation, and formatting inconsistencies. Proofreaders don’t revise content; they ensure it’s error-free.

Typical Costs:

• Copyediting: $0.02–$0.05 per word ($500–$2,000 for an 80,000-word novel).
• Proofreading: $0.01–$0.03 per word ($200–$1,000 for 80,000 words).

Ways to Save:

• Some authors choose to self-edit using tools like ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or EditGPG before hiring an editor to reduce costs.
• Bundle services with the same editor. Some offer discounts if you book both copyediting and proofreading.
• Join critique groups or swap manuscripts with other writers for extra eyes before hiring a professional.

Formatting (Indie Authors)

Once your manuscript is polished, it needs to be properly formatted for ebook and print distribution. Formatting ensures your book has professional spacing, chapter breaks, headers, and typography that enhance readability. At one time, formatting was the most difficult part of self-publishing, at least for me, but there are tools now to help.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional:

• DIY Formatting:
  • Tools like Vellum ($249 one-time for Mac users), Atticus ($147), or Reedsy’s free formatter allow authors to create professional-looking files without design experience. Check with authors on their experience. I’ve heard some authors have difficulty publishing on Amazon after using Atticus to format, which is one reason I haven’t bought it yet. (I bought a Mac just to have Vellum).
  • Best for authors who publish frequently and want to control their process.
• Hiring a Professional:
  • A formatter will ensure clean, customized design, adding elements like scene breaks, drop caps, or decorative chapter headings.
  • Cost: $50–$500, depending on complexity and whether you need both ebook and print formatting.

Ebook vs. Print Formatting Costs:

• Ebook Formatting: $50–$200 (simpler, requires fewer design elements unless you have formatting beyond regular text, such as poetry that requires sitting on the page a specific way).
• Print Formatting: $100–$500 (more involved, especially for special fonts, drop caps, or fancy title pages).
• Bundle Prices: Some professionals offer discounts for both formats together.

Ways to Save:

• If you’re publishing primarily in digital format, DIY ebook formatting is relatively easy with tools.
• If you need print and ebook formats, investing in a tool like Vellum or Atticus can save money over multiple books.

Investing in proper editing and formatting ensures your book looks and reads professionally, a key to making a great impression on romance readers.

What about audio? Well, that’s a whole other ball of wax. Audio requires hiring audio narrators or using ACX’s (an Amazon company) royalty share option. Audio can be expensive, but a growing number of romance readers buy, so it’s worth considering. Amazon offers AI narration, although I don’t know how good it is. A service like Eleven Labs allows you to make a multi-cast narration, and while okay, it doesn’t beat live speakers. I did read that Eleven Labs now has a partnership with Spotify and Findaway Voices. Finally you can sell your audio rights (if you hold your audio rights). See below in Publication and Distribution for more information).

3. Cover Design & Branding

That old adage of judging a book by its cover is true! Your book’s cover is one of the most important investments you’ll make. In the romance genre, a strong, eye-catching cover isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. Beyond the book itself, branding, including your logo, color scheme, and website, creates a consistent and recognizable identity that strengthens your author career.

Cover Design (Indie Authors)

Your cover is the first thing potential readers see, and it plays a major role in their decision to click, browse, and buy. A professional-looking cover signals quality, sets reader expectations, and conveys the tone and subgenre of your book.

Why Professional Covers Matter for Romance Books

• Romance readers expect covers that match their favorite subgenres (e.g., illustrated covers for romcoms, shirtless heroes for steamy contemporary–although today many of those are illustrated as well, soft pastels for sweet romance, dark covers for dark romances, etc).
• A well-designed cover increases click-through rates and conversions.
• DIY covers often lack the polish, font choices, and composition needed to compete with bestsellers.

Stock Covers vs. Custom Covers

There are different levels of investment when it comes to cover design, depending on your budget and needs.

• Stock Covers (Premade Covers)
  • Cost: $100–$500
  • Designers sell premade romance covers with customizable titles and author names.
  • Best for authors on a budget or those writing in popular romance subgenres.
  • Limited in uniqueness as other authors may have similar designs.
• Custom Covers
  • Cost: $150–$1,500+
  • Designed specifically for your book, including custom typography, unique imagery, and branding elements.
  • Best for authors looking to establish a long-term brand or writing a series.
  • Costs vary based on artist experience, licensing for stock images, or custom photography.

Note: GetCovers is listed below as premade cover resource, but I recently used them to create the cover for the Moonlight and Margaritas anthology. I didn’t pick from a premade mockup. I gave them a mock I made in Canva along with a text description of what I wanted. For $35, I received a cover for ebook and print, as well as the source files.

Ways to Save on Cover Design

• Buy premade covers from reputable designers on sites like The Book Cover Designer, Damonza, or GetCovers.
• If going custom, work with newer designers or use budget-friendly platforms like 99designs or Fiverr (but research portfolios carefully).
• Plan ahead for a series and negotiate bundle deals with a designer.

What about Canva? Unless you’re a graphic designer, or writing non-fiction, I’d avoid DIYing your cover.

What about AI? I see many authors going this route, but as of this writing, I’d be careful about using AI. There are readers out there who’ll avoid or negatively review anything they perceive as AI. There is also the question about AI art and copyright.

Branding & Author Website

Building a recognizable brand helps you attract and retain readers. Your brand includes everything from your cover aesthetic to the fonts, colors, and tone you use across your website, social media, and promotional materials.

Logo, Color Scheme, and Fonts for Author Branding

• Your logo doesn’t have to be elaborate, but a simple signature or symbol can make you stand out. Check out Amazon for the variety of ways authors use a logo as their author picture.
• A cohesive color scheme across your website, book covers, and marketing materials creates a strong brand identity.
• Choosing fonts that match your romance subgenre helps with recognition (e.g., playful script for romcoms, elegant serif for historical romance).

Website Costs: DIY vs. Hiring a Web Designer

Your author website is your digital home—a place where readers can learn about you, sign up for your newsletter, and find links to your books.

• DIY Website Options:
  • Wix or Squarespace – User-friendly drag-and-drop builders with affordable plans ($10–$25/month).
  • WordPress – All my sites are built on WordPress. It’s more customizable, but requires some tech knowledge (hosting $50–$100/year + themes $50–$200 – I host at Momwebs and LOVE IT!!).
  • Carrd – A minimalist one-page website option ($19/year).
  • Systeme.io – If I were to move from WordPress, this is what I’d use. In fact, I think I’ll use it for my new penname. It’s a platform with ecomm (to sell your books direct!), blog, course/membership, with email and more. And it’s free up to 2,000 subscribers.
  • Best for: New authors or those on a budget who are comfortable with DIY solutions.
• Hiring a Web Designer:
  • Cost: $500–$2,000+, depending on complexity.
  • A professionally designed site offers a polished, custom look with better functionality.
  • Best for: Established authors with multiple books who want an optimized, hassle-free website.

Ways to Save on Branding & Website Costs

• Use Canva (free or Pro for $12.99/month) to create logos, graphics, and branding materials.
• Opt for affordable templates instead of fully custom web designs (ThemeForest, Elegant Themes).
• Consider a basic landing page instead of a full website if you’re just starting out. (Note that Aweber, a email list service offers landing pages. For awhile, the Tender and Tempting Tales website was an Aweber landing page. In fact, the main page of the site is still the Aweber landing page. )

4. Marketing & Promotion Costs

I’m a big believer that marketing should start while you’re still writing your book. You should be talking about it on social media and building an email list.

Once your book is ready to launch, the next step is making sure readers know about it. Marketing and promotion can be one of the most expensive parts of publishing, but it’s also one of the most crucial. The key to success is balancing organic (free) strategies with paid advertising to maximize your book’s reach without overspending.

Book Launch Expenses

A strong book launch can help your romance novel gain momentum quickly, boosting visibility and sales. While some marketing efforts can be done for free, others require a budget.

Cover Reveal & Pre-Order Campaigns

• A cover reveal generates excitement before launch. Consider creating social media graphics and organizing a cover reveal event in Facebook groups or with bloggers.
• Pre-orders can help boost rankings, but they require early marketing. Offering an exclusive bonus (e.g., a deleted scene, a bonus epilogue) can encourage pre-orders.

Giveaway Costs

Giveaways are a great way to engage readers and build your audience. However, the costs can add up quickly.

• Signed book giveaways (printing & shipping costs: $10–$30 per winner).
• Swag items like bookmarks, stickers, or bookplates ($50–$200+).
• Gift card giveaways (Amazon or bookstore gift cards: $10–$50 per giveaway).
• Shipping costs, especially for international giveaways ($10–$50 per package).

Ways to Save:

• Partner with other romance authors for joint giveaways to split costs.
• Use digital giveaways (e.g., ebook copies, exclusive bonus scenes) to avoid shipping fees.
• Run giveaways through BookFunnel, KingSumo or Rafflecopter to easily manage entries. (I use Bookfunnel giveaways to build my email list and KingSumo for special contest giveaways that also build my list and social media).

Paid Advertising

Paid ads can significantly increase your book’s visibility, but they require a good understanding of copywriting, time to test and analyze data, and strategic investment. The key is to start small, test what works, and scale up gradually.

Types of Paid Ads:

• Amazon Ads (PPC – pay-per-click) – Targets readers searching for books in your genre. Budget: $5–$50/day to start.
• Facebook Ads – Ideal for reaching romance readers. Budget: $5–$500+ per campaign.
• BookBub Ads & Featured Deals – One of the best ways to get visibility, but expensive. Budget: $100–$1,000+.
• TikTok & Instagram Ads – Can be effective for romance, especially with younger audiences. Budget: $10–$100 per campaign.

ROI (Return on Investment) Considerations:

• Test different ad creatives and targeting before committing to a large budget. I can’t tell you how many times a graphic I liked tanked as an ad but the graphic I didn’t like generated results.
• Track conversion rates to avoid overspending on ineffective ads.
• Free or discounted first-in-series books often perform well in ad campaigns, and can lead to sales of read through books.

Ways to Save:

• Use newsletter swaps with other romance authors for free exposure. Bookclicker and BookFunnel offer swap services. Bookclicker also has affordable featured ads with romance authors.
• Promote your book in Facebook reader groups instead of relying solely on ads. Just make sure you read the rules of the group and follow them.

Newsletter & Email Marketing

Don’t skimp on this. Start building this when you build your website. A strong email list is one of the best long-term marketing investments you can make. Your newsletter allows you to reach readers directly, without relying on social media algorithms.

Email Service Providers (ESPs):

• Mailerlite (Free up to 1,000 subscribers, then $10–$50/month). I set my sister up with Mailerlite when she built her website.
• Aweber  (Free trial then $15+/month. Get 4 months free with annual subscription). I use Aweber and love it.
• Systeme.io (Free up to 2,000 subscribers, then $27month – all Features).

Lead Magnet Expenses

A lead magnet is a freebie used to attract subscribers to your mailing list. Check with your agent/publisher about what you can giveaway. It might be you’ll need to share a story or content that does NOT involve characters in the story you’ve submitted for publishing.

• Short novella or bonus content (cost: your writing time).
• Professionally designed reader magnets (cover & formatting: $50–$200).
• BookFunnel or StoryOrigin (used for delivering freebies: $20–$100/year).

Note you can upload your story to your website host server, but it’s could be found and downloaded without email sign up. I like Bookfunnel because the book can be delivered in various formats depending on the e-reader, it offers customer support to readers if they need help downloading, and it can deliver more than just your lead magnet. I use it to deliver the direct sales of my books as well.

Ways to Save:

• Use free newsletter swaps to cross-promote with other authors.
• Create a simple landing page with your lead magnet instead of a full website. You can do this with Aweber or Systeme.io.

ARC Team & Reviews

Getting early reviews is crucial for book credibility. Reviews influence buying decisions, affect Amazon algorithms, and help your book gain traction.

Setting Up an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) Team:

• A free ARC team consists of loyal readers, bloggers, and books influencers who receive early copies in exchange for honest reviews.
• ARC copies can be delivered through BookFunnel ($20–$100/year) or StoryOrigin or by email if you can convert to proper format though something like Calibre.

Paid Reviews & Services:

• NetGalley ($50–$500) – Offers early access to professional reviewers, but results vary. Traditional publishers often pay for this.
• Kirkus Reviews ($425–$599) – Expensive, but sometimes used for credibility.
• BookSprout (Free or paid tiers for managing ARC teams). I use this (here’s my profile). I pay for it when I’m seeking reviews for launch, and then turn it off when I’m not. Readers can follow you and readers who don’t review can be prevented from getting ARCs from you in the future.

Check out Write with Harte’s list of promo and review resources in the member area. Membership is FREE. Join here.

Ways to Save:

• Build your own street team instead of paying for ARC services. I started my street team on Facebook and directly emailed books.
• Use Goodreads Giveaways ($119–$599) if it aligns with your strategy.

👉Important to Consider about Marketing & Promotion Costs

Marketing is one of the biggest areas where authors overspend, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to balance organic (free) strategies with targeted (as in most likely reader of your book) paid efforts that deliver measurable results. Start with a realistic budget, track performance, and adjust your strategy as you grow.

5. Distribution & Publishing Costs (Indie Authors)

Once your book is fully edited, formatted, and ready for readers, the final step is publishing and distribution. Whether you’re releasing in ebook, print, or audiobook, understanding the costs associated with publishing helps you make smart decisions that maximize profits while keeping expenses manageable.

ISBNs & Copyright

Before you publish, you need to decide whether to purchase an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) and whether to register your book’s copyright. These are optional in some cases, but they can impact your book’s distribution and legal protection.

ISBN Costs

• An ISBN is a unique identifier required for print books and some ebook platforms.
• Amazon KDP offers a free ISBN, but it cannot be used with other distributors (like IngramSpark or bookstores).
• If you plan to publish wide (beyond Amazon), you’ll need to purchase an ISBN:
  • Bowker (U.S.) pricing:
    • 1 ISBN: $125
    • 10 ISBNs: $295
    • 100 ISBNs: $575
  • Canada & UK offer free ISBNs through their national libraries.

👉In the US, if you can bulk buy, do it. An ISBN goes with the format of the book, not the title. That means a single title that is in print, ebook, audio, and special edition will need 4 ISBN numbers.

Copyright Registration

• You automatically own the copyright as soon as you write your book, but official registration adds legal protection. Mailing the book to yourself does NOT protect you legally.
• U.S. Copyright Registration Cost: $45–$65 (via the U.S. Copyright Office). Some traditional publishers will file this on your behalf.
• While not required, registration makes it easier to prove ownership in legal disputes.

Ways to Save:

• If publishing exclusively on Amazon, use their free ISBN (but note the limitations). (Note that ebooks published through Amazon don’t have ISBN but an ASIN).
• Buy ISBNs in bulk if you plan to publish multiple formats and/or multiple books.
• Skip copyright registration unless you have concerns about piracy or legal enforcement.

Print Costs

Many romance authors offer print-on-demand (POD) paperbacks and hardcovers for readers who prefer physical books. POD allows you to sell print books without maintaining inventory, with costs deducted per book sold.

Print-on-Demand Options:

1. Amazon KDP Print (Best for Amazon distribution)
   • No upfront cost.
   • Royalty: 60% minus printing costs.
   • Example printing costs:
     • $4.50–$6.00 for a 300-page paperback.
     • Hardcovers cost more ($8–$12).
2. IngramSpark (Best for wide distribution, including bookstores & libraries)
   • $49 setup fee per book (may be waived with promo codes).
   • Royalty: Varies, typically 40–55% minus printing costs.
   • More options for trim sizes and hardcover editions.
3. BookVault (Best for direct sales or special edition – Works like drop ship. The order comes through your site to BookVault, who prints and ships it to your reader)
   • Free (may have title set up), $24.95 or $89.95 per month
   • Royalty: Varies up to 90%
   • Options for trim sizes, bindings, cover styles, bespoke (sprayed edges, foil, end pages, ribbons, etc)

Cost Per Book:

• Varies based on page count, trim size, paper type, and color options.
• The more pages, the higher the printing cost.
• Black & white printing is cheaper than color.

Ways to Save:

• Keep page count reasonable to lower printing costs.
• Use Amazon KDP for primary printing and IngramSpark for expanded distribution (note that you can’t use a FREE ISBN for both)
• Wait for IngramSpark promo codes to waive setup fees.

C. Audiobook Production

Audiobooks are a growing market in romance publishing, but they require a significant upfront investment. Deciding whether to produce an audiobook depends on your budget and audience demand. Some traditional publishers will ask for audio rights along with print and ebook. If they don’t, you can sell the rights separately or create the audio on your own.

Narration Costs:

• Professional Narrators:
  • Rates range from $150–$500+ per finished hour.
  • A 10-hour audiobook could cost $1,500–$5,000.
• Royalty Share Options:
  • ACX(Audible’s platform) offers a royalty split with narrators, reducing upfront costs but lowering long-term profits. Plus there are limitations to where you can distribute if you use the royalty split.
• DIY Narration:
  • Some authors narrate their own books, but this requires professional equipment and editing software.
  • Cost: $200–$1,000 for setup (microphone, editing software, etc.).
• AI Narration: 
  • AI voices have improved dramatically, however it’s still not as good as live people. Plus, there are many who don’t like AI. That said, it’s much more affordable and if it’s a matter of having an audio book with AI or not having audio at all, it could be an option.
  • Cost: Depends on plan and length of book but around $200 through Eleven Labs
• Sell Audio Rights
  • If you have the rights to your books (indie authors or trad author that still has audio rights), you can sell your audio rights to an audio publisher like Tantor. I did this with the Southern Heat series.
  • Cost: Nothing and you might get an advance.
  • You’ll need to pitch your book and sign a contract. Learn more at this post on selling your audio book rights.

Where to Distribute Audiobooks:

• ACX (Audible, Amazon, iTunes) – Exclusive or wide distribution options.
• Findaway Voices – Distributes to multiple retailers, including Spotify and Apple Books.
• Google Play Audiobooks – An emerging market with direct upload options.

Ways to Save:

• Consider a royalty share agreement if upfront costs are too high.
• Use platforms like Voices.com or Fiverr to find budget-friendly narrators.
• Wait until you have an established audience before investing in audiobooks.

Choosing the right distribution strategy is a balance between cost and potential reach. Ebooks have the lowest upfront cost, while print books and audiobooks require more investment but can expand your audience. By planning ahead and comparing pricing options, you can publish your romance novel in multiple formats while staying within budget.

6. Setting Up Your Writing Career as a Business

If you’re publishing books with the intention of making a profit, it’s a good idea to treat your writing as a business. While you don’t need to create a legal entity to start, having the right structure, banking setup, and financial systems in place can help you protect your assets, manage taxes, and establish credibility as a professional author. Here’s what you need to know about common business expenses for authors.

Business Structure: Sole Proprietor, DBA, or LLC?

When starting your author business, you’ll need to choose a business structure. Each option comes with different costs, tax implications, and legal protections.

1. Sole Proprietor (Default for Most Authors) – $0

• Most self-published authors start as sole proprietors using their author name by default since no legal paperwork is required.
• Pros: Easy setup, no filing fees, and you report book earnings on your personal tax return.
• Cons: No legal separation between you and your business, meaning personal assets could be at risk in the event of a lawsuit.

2. DBA (Doing Business As) – $10–$100

• If you want to publish under a pen name or establish a brand name (e.g., “Love & Lace Publishing”), you may need a DBA (Doing Business As). Note you can do this as a
• Pros: Allows you to use a business name instead of your legal name.
• Cons: It does not provide liability protection.
• Cost: Varies by state, typically $10–$100.

3. LLC (Limited Liability Company) – $50–$500+

• An LLC separates your personal assets from your business and provides liability protection.
• Pros: Protects personal assets, allows you to open a business bank account, and can offer tax benefits.
• Cons: Costs more to set up, and some states require annual fees.
• Cost: Filing fees range from $50–$500 depending on the state. Some states also require an annual LLC fee.

When Should You Consider an LLC?

• If you earn consistent book income and want liability protection.
• If you’re running a small press or multiple-author brand.
• If you plan to hire contractors/employees (e.g., assistants, cover designers).

Ways to Save:

• Many authors stay sole proprietors until they reach a certain income level ($10K+/year) before forming an LLC.
• Use online services like ZenBusiness or LegalZoom to handle LLC filing for $50–$200 instead of hiring an attorney. Or go directly to your state’s SCC website. I filed directly to my state online.

Banking & Financial Management

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal accounts helps with budgeting, tracking expenses, and tax reporting.

1. Business Bank Account – Free to $25/month

• A separate business checking account makes it easier to manage book royalties and business expenses, especially at tax time.
• Pros:
  • Helps track income and expenses for taxes.
  • Makes it easier to pay for author expenses (ads, editing, etc.).
  • If you have an LLC, a separate account is required for liability protection.
• Cost:
  • Many banks offer free business checking accounts if you maintain a minimum balance.
  • Some charge $10–$25/month if you don’t meet requirements.

2. Business PayPal or Stripe Account – Free (Transaction Fees Apply)

• If you sell books directly or take payments for services (e.g., coaching, courses), you may need a business PayPal or Stripe account.
• Fees:
  • PayPal/Stripe take a small % of transactions (usually 2.9% + $0.30 per sale).
  • Free to set up, but fees apply per transaction.
  • Some offer a free card reader for when you’re selling direct at reader events

3. Business Credit Card – Optional ($0–$99/year for fees)

• Some authors get a business credit card for expenses like ads, subscriptions, or travel.
• Benefits:
  • Helps separate business expenses.
  • Some offer cashback or travel rewards.
• Annual Fees: Some cards have no annual fee, while premium business cards can cost $99+ per year.

Ways to Save:

• Choose free business checking accounts (many online banks offer these).
• Use a debit card instead of a credit card to avoid interest charges.

Business Taxes & Accounting Costs

Once you start earning money from book sales, you’ll need to track earnings and expenses for tax purposes.

1. Accounting Software or Spreadsheets – Free to $25/month

• You can track income and expenses using:
  • Google Sheets/Excel (Free)
  • Wave Accounting (Free) – Great for beginner authors.
  • QuickBooks or FreshBooks ($10–$25/month)

2. Quarterly Taxes (If Earning Over ~$400/year)

• In the U.S., self-employed authors must pay estimated taxes quarterly if they expect to owe over $1,000 in taxes.
• Estimate: Set aside 20–30% of your book earnings for taxes.
• Filing Costs:
  • DIY (Free with TurboTax, H&R Block).
  • Hiring a tax professional ($150–$500).

3. Bookkeeping & CPA Fees – Optional ($200–$1,000/year)

• If you don’t want to manage taxes yourself, hiring a bookkeeper or CPA can help.
• Costs range from $200–$1,000 per year, depending on complexity.

Ways to Save:

• Track expenses monthly to avoid last-minute stress.
• Use free accounting tools like Wave instead of paid software.

Final Thoughts on Business Expenses for Authors

While writing is creative, publishing is a business. Setting up the right legal structure, banking system, and financial management can save you money, protect your assets, and make tax time easier.

• Start small – Begin as a sole proprietor and open a separate bank account for book earnings.
• Upgrade as needed – Consider an LLC if your income grows or if you want liability protection.
• Track expenses – Use free tools or accounting software to monitor income and expenses.

7. Financial Planning for Authors

Publishing a romance novel requires smart financial planning. Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer, having a clear budget ensures you invest in the right areas without overspending. This section will help you set a realistic budget, find ways to cut costs, and track your expenses for tax purposes.

Setting a Budget Based on Your Goals

Your budget should reflect your publishing goals. Are you launching your first book on a limited budget, or are you an established author investing in long-term career growth? Understanding genre expectations and where you are in your publishing journey can help you allocate funds wisely.

Genre Expectations: Romance Readers Expect Polished Books

• Romance is a competitive market. Readers expect high-quality covers, professional editing, and engaging storytelling.
• A polished book increases reader trust and leads to better reviews and word-of-mouth marketing.
• If you’re writing steamy romance, romcom, or historical romance, ensure your cover design and formatting match the bestsellers in your subgenre.

New Author vs. Experienced Author Budget Differences

• New authors may need to invest more upfront in branding, website setup, and marketing to establish themselves.
• Experienced authors with a backlist can reinvest profits from previous books, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
• If you plan to publish multiple books, investing in tools like Vellum (for formatting) or a bulk ISBN package can save money in the long run.

Example Budgets:

Ways to Save Money

Publishing doesn’t have to break the bank! Here are some cost-saving strategies:

1. Bartering Skills with Other Authors

• Trade editing for beta reading. If you have a strong eye for detail, swap services with another writer.
• Cover designers & formatters may offer discounts in exchange for testimonials or referrals.
• Join writing groups where authors share resources and collaborate on book promotion.

2. Using Free or Budget-Friendly Tools

• Free Editing Tools: Grammarly (free version), ProWritingAid, Hemingway Editor.
• Cover Design: Canva (free version) for basic covers; GetCovers ($10–$50) for affordable professional designs.
• Marketing: Use BookFunnel ($20/year) for reader magnets and StoryOrigin for newsletter swaps.
• Publishing & Distribution: Use KDP’s free ISBN if you’re publishing exclusively on Amazon.

3. Plan for Long-Term Savings

• Instead of hiring a formatter for every book, invest in Vellum ($249) or Atticus ($147) for unlimited formatting.
• Buy bulk ISBNs instead of purchasing single ones.
• Wait for sales or discounts on writing courses and software.

Tracking Expenses & Taxes

As a romance author, your book-related expenses are tax-deductible, but only if you keep accurate records. Tracking expenses helps you stay within budget and reduce taxable income.

1. Using Spreadsheets or Accounting Software

• Basic Tracking: Use a Google Sheets or Excel spreadsheet to log expenses like editing, cover design, and advertising.
• Accounting Software:
  • Wave Accounting (Free) – Great for beginner authors.
  • QuickBooks or FreshBooks ($10–$25/month) – Ideal for managing royalty income and expenses.

2. Deductible Expenses for Authors

If you make money from book sales, you may be able to write off expenses on your taxes. Some common tax-deductible expenses include:

• Editing & cover design fees
• ISBN purchases & copyright registration
• Website & hosting fees
• Software (Scrivener, Vellum, Adobe)
• Marketing costs (ads, giveaways, ARC services)
• Conference or workshop fees
• Office supplies & writing equipment

Note that I’m not a tax expert. Find one for help on author tax deductions.

3. Set Aside Money for Taxes

• If you’re earning royalties, set aside 20–30% of your income for taxes.
• Consider working with a tax professional who understands author finances.

Ways to Save:

• Use free accounting software until your income grows.
• Track expenses monthly to avoid last-minute stress at tax time.

Final Thoughts on Financial Planning

Budgeting for your book doesn’t mean cutting corners or producing “good enough”. It means spending wisely so you can publish the best book possible while staying financially stable. By setting clear goals, using cost-saving strategies, and tracking your expenses, you can build a sustainable and profitable romance writing career.