Sonia M. Rompoti, MSc, bsc

The Reality Nobody Talks About

You did it. You wrote the book, poured your heart into the pages, hit publish… and then, silence.
No rush of sales. No sudden fame.
Just you, checking the sales dashboard a little too often, wondering if maybe — just maybe — you made a mistake.

First: you’re not alone.
This is the messy middle that almost every author faces, even if nobody talks about it openly. It’s not a sign you should give up; it’s a sign you’re in the process of building something real.

Let’s walk through how to survive — and thrive — even when your books aren’t flying off the shelves (yet).

The Emotional Side: You’re Allowed to Feel Disappointed

It’s important to say this upfront: it’s okay to feel hurt, frustrated, or even embarrassed when your hard work isn’t recognized right away.
This doesn’t mean you’re a bad writer. It doesn’t mean you’re not meant for this.

It means you’re human.

Authors often tie their self-worth to the success of their work. But your value doesn’t come from the number of sales you make. Your worth comes from your willingness to create, to share, and to keep showing up even when the applause is muted.

Understanding the Long Game

The truth is that most authors don’t sell many books in the beginning. Publishing is not a lottery ticket; it’s a slow, steady investment of time and effort.

Many bestselling authors built their audience one book, one reader, one heartfelt connection at a time.
Think of it like planting an orchard, not picking wildflowers.
It takes longer, but it feeds you for a lifetime.

Ask yourself:

• Am I thinking long-term?
• Am I giving myself enough time to grow?

If you keep creating, learning, and adjusting, success becomes inevitable.

Focus on What You Can Control

It’s tempting to focus on what isn’t happening — the sales you’re not getting, the reviews that aren’t pouring in.
Instead, focus your energy on what you can control:

• Your next book
• Your author platform
• Your connection with readers

You have the power to become a better writer with every story you write.
You have the power to reach more people through newsletters, blog posts, social media, and events.
You have the power to keep showing up authentically.

Building a Resilient Author Mindset

Surviving — and eventually thriving — as an author requires grit.
Here are some truths to carry with you:

• Visibility comes before sales. People can’t buy what they don’t know exists.
• Consistency matters more than bursts of effort. One book, one social post, one reader at a time.
• Your body of work will sell your first book. The more you write, the more people trust you.

Instead of asking, “Why hasn’t anyone bought my book?” try asking, “How can I help someone discover my work today?”

That tiny shift can change everything.

Marketing Without Losing Your Soul

You don’t have to become a pushy salesperson. But you do need to become your own biggest advocate.

Here’s how to market yourself while staying true to your values:

• Share your journey — the highs and the struggles. People love real stories.
• Offer value first — write blog posts, create free resources, share behind-the-scenes content.
• Connect genuinely with other writers and readers. Relationships matter more than algorithms.

Marketing doesn’t have to feel slimy. Think of it as inviting people into your world, not shouting at them from a distance.

Creating More Opportunities for Readers to Find You

If your first book isn’t selling much, one of the best things you can do is write another.

Each book is a door into your world. Some readers won’t find you through Book One — but Book Three might grab them.
When they fall in love with your later books, guess what?
They often go back and buy everything else you’ve written.

Keep planting seeds.

Your Work Matters — Even When It Feels Invisible

It can be heartbreaking to create something and feel like nobody cares.
But you care.
And somewhere out there, someone else will care too — if you keep going.

Writing is an act of hope. Publishing is an act of courage.
Surviving the quiet seasons? That’s what makes you unstoppable.

If this spoke to you — if you’re sitting there wondering if you’re the only one — I want you to know: you’re part of a bigger story.
You’re building something that matters.

Join my newsletter for more behind-the-scenes stories, survival strategies, and honest conversations about the writing life. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s thrive together.

And if you feel like it, drop a comment below:
What’s one thing you’re proud of in your writing journey so far?
I would love to celebrate with you.