Frequently Asked Questions
This list covers important questions for first-time and published authors considering publishing through us as an Independent publisher.
I want to self-publish, can you help me?
Yes, as an independent publisher that’s what we do. We help authors to self-publish
I am publishing for the first time, can you help me?
Yes, our goal is to especially help first time authors publish their first book.
How experienced are you as a publisher?
We have been publishing for over 10 years now, and our work speaks for itself. Have a look through our portfolio and come to your own conclusion.
What is your vision for my book?
Your project is your ‘brain child,’ so we handle it with the individual care and attention that every ‘child’ deserves. Quality is our priority, so we partner with you and work until you are completely satisfied with your publication.
How many times would you do a full revision of my manuscript?
We would normally discuss the editorial evaluation and agree on the necessary revision level. You are allowed 3 reviews. Any further reviews will come at a charge.
What is your standard contract like?
Our contracts are built to protect both you and us. Once we have had the opportunity to interview you via ZOOM and agree to proceed with the project, the contract will be forwarded to you for your perusal.
Are you a traditional publisher or independent publishers?
We are independent publishers and, therefore, work especially with self-publishers.
What are the advantages of publishing through you?
We are independent publishers and, therefore, offer many benefits unavailable through traditional publishers. Go to our website to compare the pros and cons.
What are your royalty rates and payment schedules?
Different platforms offer different rates, but the industry standard is 10-25% of the net sales price. If your book is published through our kdp account and we manage and report your sales we'll pay you all your royalties, less 23.7% management fee. To understand kdp.amazon's charges and royalties go here > Understanding KDP's Costs and Royalties
Who owns the copyright to the book?
Our policy is that you retain FULL ownership of your work.
What are the marketing and promotion plans for my book?
We do not offer marketing as standard. However, some of our plans include extended distribution that will give your book global circulation on Amazon and in bookstores, etc.
What is the timeline for the publishing process?
Our cycle from receiving your finished manuscript to publishing is usually 90 days, given the manuscript is in good order. Otherwise, coaching to get it up to spec is offered at a charge. The option to professionally write it through one of our Contract Writers is also available.
How much editorial control will I have?
You are involved at every stage.
Will I have a say in the cover design and title?
Absolutely, if you so desire, you can have an input at every stage.
How many author copies will I receive for promotional purposes?
We organise for you to receive copies at print cost (without markup) from Amazon KDP. As we usually use print-on-demand platforms, we cannot afford to advance these copies. Bulk prints through lithographic printers are subject to the country you reside in and are negotiated separately. Contact us for more information.
Can I see your author testimonials or reviews?
To view our author testimonials, go to our homepage and scroll down to the ‘Testimonials’ section.
Are you a member of any professional publishing associations?
Yes, we are members of the Self Publishing Show.
How will you handle disputes or disagreements?
We develop close working relationships and clarify at every stage to avoid misunderstandings. If any such dispute arose, we would adhere to the laws of the UK.
What kind of ongoing support do you offer to your authors?
We are always available to our authors to answer questions, etc. As for marketing, the level of marketing support depends on the package chosen. We offer from multi-media promotional material [including social media platforms] to virtual or actual launches and media interviews.
What are your distribution channels?
Depending on the package selected - Standard distribution is offered via Amazon KDP. Packages with extended distribution include publishing your book to Ingram Spakes and Barnes and Noble.
How often will I receive royalty statements and sales updates?
Depending on the volume of sales, we typically provide quarterly royalty reports. For high-volume sales (above 100 copies per month), mid-volume sales - half yearly (50 - 100 copies per month) and low volume annually (below 50 copies per month).
Do you offer editorial development or manuscript evaluation services?
Yes. Across all our packages, editorial evaluation is offered FREE. We also offer writer coaching as a paid service.
Do you accept unsolicited manuscripts?
Sure, we do. We typically look for first-time writers to help them get their work into the marketplace.
What is the submission process for unsolicited manuscripts?
Just email us via the contact form on our website, and we will get back to you and set up an interview to discuss your project.
What are some common challenges faced by first-time authors?
Some common challenges include:
- You are not a trained writer and need coaching to write for literary appreciation.
- You have no experience in the publishing process and may be daunted by it.
- You may have watched misleading videos about publishing, resulting in you underestimating the work involved, especially in selling your books.
What level of editing comes with the free editorial evaluation?
The editorial evaluation does not include editing. We will give you an editorial review to decide what level of editing your material will need. To understand the different editorial levels and services go here > publishing guide
Does the Audio Book cost include everything?
No, the cost quoted above is for the production and publishing of the book but does not include the cost of voice narration. Voice over charges vary depending on the artist of choice.
What does the Cover Design include?
We design both the back and front cover for your book/publication. There will be extra charges if stock images are required.
Can I use AI to help me create my book/publication?
Yes you may. Here is a guide to which AI is best for specific tasks. AI task list
What will I get at the end of the process?
At the least we will produce your work to pass Amazon's standard for publishing and make it available to be sold on Amazon. A pdf copy of your book files will also be handed over to you.
Why would I need an ISBN?
You can receive a free ISBN (called an ASIN) from kdp.amazon but this will restrict your book to being distributed only through them. Purchasing an ISBN will allow expanded distribution beyond Amazon to other platforms like Barnes & Noble etc.
What type of Promo Video will I receive if chosen?
We offer 3 levels of promo videos all coming with text and background music as standard. They are:
- Animated images
- Animated images with video clips
- Animated images with video clips and voice over
What type of Advertisement will you do for my publication?
A full page magazine advert, poster or flyer for your publication comes as standard with all packages. We also do promo videos, websites, social media set up and more depending on the package you choose
What will be included in my Website?
We will create a single page (landing page) website for your book. NOTE that this does not include cost of a domain name, hosting or stock images if needed. View breakdown of website costs if you need more than just a landing page.
What will I get if I include Social Media Campaign in my package?
This means we will set up your author page on your choice of social media platform (Facebook or Instagram) and help you, for the first 2 months to push your publication through this media.
What will happen if I want my job to be rushed?
In such a case your job will be given priority and should take about half the time a non-rushed job would take but the cost of producing your work will go up by about a third.