The world of self-published books keeps on growing, but it can be a scary place for readers to venture. There is a glut of poorly written, poorly edited, poorly designed self-published books. There are also plenty of gems hidden among their not-so-shiny counterpart. If you’ve been afraid to give self-published books a try, fear no longer. I put together this list of my five favorite self-published books so you can go right to the gems. You can find other self-published books I enjoyed on my self-published shelf on Goodreads.
The Abolitionist, by Elisabeth Allen
It took me quite a while to get into this book, and the format took a while to get used to as well. However, once I did get used to the way the book is set up, I loved it. It’s not high action or edge-of-your seat. Instead, the tension in this story comes from the need to chose. The main character is faced with injustice and scared of losing the approval of “society.” I appreciated the struggle she went through to try to make the right decision. If you’re in search of a calm book to read while cozied up next to a fire, give this one a try.
In His Image, by J. Grace Pennington
This is my newest self-published favorite. I’ve read both of the author’s previous books and can say that this is her best one yet. Which reminds me that I need to announce who gets to borrow the kindle copy from me. That would be you, Spencer R. Congratulations! I’ll email it to you this afternoon.
Before You Meet Prince Charming, by Sarah Mally
This also includes Grace Mally’s book, Will Our Generation Speak. I love both of them. I decided to put Sarah’s book on the list because I’ve had it longer and read it multiple times. Both books really spoke to me and taught me a lot.
Peter’s Angel, by Aubrey Hansen
The only thing that bothers me about this book is that I can’t figure out what genre it fits into. It’s a cross between historical and speculative. Great story, though. And great writing too. Unfortunately, it ends on a bit of a cliff hanger, and book two still isn’t out.
Tales of the Heartily Homeschooled, by Rachel Starr Thomson and Carolyn Currey
I’ve loved every book I’ve read by Rachel Starr Thomson. I decided to display this one just because it’s different from the rest. I had such a good time reading the hysterical stories in here. This book is the perfect Christmas present for a homeschool mom or friend.
Which one of these books appeals to you? Have you already read any of them? If you have, which is your favorite? Are there any self-published books you would add to the “gems” list?
Leah E. Good 
I have not read any of these, but my sister has read “Before You Meet Prince Charming” and “Will Our Generation Speak?” Neat idea doing a list of self-published books, I found this really interesting.
I think you’d really enjoy “Tales of the Heartily Homeschooled,” Hanna. Thanks for the feedback!
I’ve only read one of these: In His Image. It was quite good and am looking forward to the next books I’m the series.
For other self-published books, I am a huge fan of Jaye L. Knight’s Resistance. It is spectacular.
I really need to read that one. I read some of her old pirates series written as Molly Evangeline, but I hear her writing has improved since then.