Self-Publishing Weekly Update for March 23, 2025

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Industry News

• Debate on Market Saturation: Recent discussions highlight concerns about the increasing number of books published annually, with some attributing this surge to the rise of self-publishing platforms. ​The Guardian

• Critique of Traditional Publishing Practices: Critics argue that traditional publishers are focusing more on commercially safe genres and celebrity authors, leading many writers to explore self-publishing as a viable alternative. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

Marketing Trends

• Rise of 'Cosy Kink' Genre: A new trend blending wholesome settings with explicit content, termed "cosy kink," is gaining popularity. This genre combines cozy, small-town atmospheres with graphic sexual scenes, offering a fresh avenue for romance authors. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

• Escapism in Marketing: Brands are increasingly incorporating fantastical and surreal elements into their campaigns to offer consumers an escape from daily stresses. This trend is evident in various industries, including fashion and literature. ​Vogue Business

Platform Updates

• Spotify's Expansion into Audiobooks: Spotify has launched a new program aimed directly at indie authors, providing tools to create AI-generated audiobooks, thereby expanding distribution options for self-published authors. ​The Guardian+2The Self-Publishing Advice Center+2Glimpse+2

Author Spotlight

• Lucy Score's Success Story: Bestselling romance author Lucy Score transitioned from job loss to indie publishing success, establishing a family-run publishing company and achieving significant recognition in the romance genre. ​People.com

Opportunities

• Writing Conferences and Workshops: March 2025 offers numerous writing events, both online and in-person, providing workshops, pitch sessions with agents, and marketing discussions. ​Medium

---

Stay tuned for next week's update to keep abreast of the evolving self-publishing landscape.