Inside the Author Journey with Anne Pickering

Publishing takes time and patience … and a lot of waiting. But when you’ve been working on your story for years and you’re ready to share it with the world, you don’t want to be sent back to the drawing board. The journey to traditional publishing is notoriously lengthy; the freedom to choose your own timeline is often a reason writers turn to self-publishing.

In this edition of Inside the Author Journey, we speak with author Anne Pickering about her experience of becoming a published author and working with Dettori Publishing’s Independent Ink. 

Anne Pickering is the author of her debut novel, Stream Reader, which was published in March 2026. This coming-of-age fantasy is the first book in The Stream series. The story follows Sarian, a student of the aura reader, as she begins to uncover the unspoken truths rippling beneath the surface of The Stream. As her power deepens, so do the consequences – and the line between duty and destiny begins to blur.

Anne’s passion for storytelling was sparked as a child. On long road trips across the country, Anne would gaze out the window and invent stories. Now, years later, with time to dedicate to her writing, she is a published author. 

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1. What experience of self-publishing did you have before working with us? Why did you choose to self-publish?

My first journey was … can I even write a book?! Once I was well into the process, I joined a writers' association and started to explore options. One of the most helpful things was a writer's mentorship. 

I looked at my options on how to approach traditional publishing houses, agents, and self-publishing; some were helpful, some very confusing. The one factor that was reiterated was the expectation of a long wait to publish through agents and traditional publishers.

I already felt like I had been sitting on this project too long; I had reworked the project several times through consults and differing advice, I had feedback from beta readers, and I was looking for a way forward. Experience has taught me that being caught at a crossroad is one of the most disempowering experiences; by choosing a direction, one moves forward and learns in the process.

In 2025, I attended workshops and talks at the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival. An agent spoke about the length of the process, even if you are signed. 

Then I attended Ann Dettori’s talk on self-publishing – the tools to do it, and things you need to be aware of to achieve a professional result. Many of which I was aware of, but here there seemed to be a pathway forward. 

I scribbled down notes and thought I would buy Ann’s book on self-publishing. I was aware there was a lot involved to get this right. I could learn the process myself and individually seek editors, illustrators, and internal designers, learn the process of uploading to online platforms, but honestly, I didn’t even want to. Mostly, I wanted a book at the end of the process that was professional.

I decided to approach Ann for a quote; a sample of my manuscript was sent so that it could be ascertained what was needed re editing, etc. 

When the itemised quote came back with what was needed, the thing that struck me was that I wasn’t sent back to the drawing board. What was needed in editing was suggested. The quote listed the whole process in detail, and the most exciting aspect was that you can progress; this is happening, and your goal can be achieved.  

2. What was the initial experience like when you talked with Ann?

Pleasant, informative, friendly. I had already liked the way Ann presented at the Writers Festival, and it was only confirmed in all our conversations.

3. How did you find the editing and design experience? Was it daunting or reassuring?

Definitely reassuring, through the whole experience, I felt assistance was there if needed. At the same time, everyone was professional and I could see my book coming to fruition. The editing process cleared up my errors, clarified confusing sentences and kept my voice. 

The cover design was the first time I could see the potential of my manuscript in future book form. My input and suggestions were heard and what came back was like seeing my dream come into reality. I loved seeing those images and the options offered and being able to imagine how it would look once completed.                                                                                                                                    

4. Did you get the support you needed to complete the book?

Absolutely!  And I love it!                                                                                                                          

5. What was your proudest moment when you became a published author?

Honestly, the tactile experience of holding my book, flicking through the pages and seeing my words there, words previously only viewed on the computer, over and over again …

6. What did you learn about who you are and your expertise during the process?

Rather, it confirms for me that moving forward on anything important to you is soul-filling.

As to expertise, it’s an ongoing process; I continue to learn in all aspects of my approach to writing, initial self-editing, staying open to professional advice, but most of all nurturing my own creativity and inspiration, my call to write. 

Naturally, I’ve learnt more about the publishing process, my role as the author, decisions along the way, but I can honestly say working with a professional publisher, like Ann, allowed me to concentrate on writing, while someone with expertise brings all the pieces together to form a book I am proud of.

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Anne’s publishing journey is a reminder that stories nurtured over many years still deserve to be shared. What began as a childhood passion for storytelling on long road trips eventually became a published fantasy novel – proof that creativity, persistence and the courage to keep moving forward can turn a long-held dream into reality. After years of rewrites, research and moments of uncertainty, seeing Stream Reader published was the reward for finally taking the next step and sharing her story with the world.

If you’ve been sitting on a manuscript for years or wondering how to finally move your book forward, you don’t have to navigate the publishing journey alone. 

At Dettori Publishing, we help take the stress and confusion out of self-publishing so you can focus on what matters most – your story. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’d love to hear from you.

Don’t forget to check out Stream Reader, available now!

Wishing Anne all the success with Stream Reader!