A Publisher's Conversation with Authors: When Authors Choose to Go It Alone

It is Tuesday. Monday's madness is over, and Wednesday will take us over the hump, so Tuesday it is--for some serious discussion with authors. Tuesday talks mean to address authors in waiting and self-published authors who would like to go a more traditional route or who would at least like to take their steps with a publisher by their side. 

This week we discuss what happens -- from what we have seen -- when authors decide to go it alone. As publishers, we've witnessed a recurring pattern when working with aspiring authors. Many talented writers approach us with manuscripts that show promise but require developmental editing or platform building before they're market-ready. While many authors appreciate professional guidance, some find it difficult to receive constructive feedback.

For those authors, the self-publishing route can seem appealing, particularly with platforms like Amazon Kindle offering free publication options. Authors gain complete creative control and higher royalty percentages. However, what many don't realize is that publishing encompasses far more than simply making a book available for purchase. Professional editing, cover design, marketing, distribution channels, and industry connections all play crucial roles in a book's success.

Our experience has shown that authors who choose self-publishing after rejecting professional guidance often struggle to gain traction. Data suggests that the average self-published title sells fewer than 100 copies in a lifetime, with many selling under 20. Without professional editing, these works frequently retain the issues initially identified, limiting their potential to connect with readers or attract positive reviews. While there are certainly self-publishing success stories, these represent a small percentage of the total.

Hybrid publishing models offer a middle ground that many authors might benefit from considering. These arrangements provide professional editorial support, design services, and marketing assistance while allowing authors to maintain significant creative control. For writers seeking to build long-term careers, the guidance of experienced publishing professionals can prove invaluable in developing both their craft and their audience.

We believe every author deserves to see their work reach its full potential. Whether through traditional publishing, hybrid models, or self-publishing, the key is approaching the process with openness to feedback and a willingness to invest in professional quality. The publishing industry continues to evolve, offering more pathways to publication than ever before—each with its own advantages and challenges for authors to consider.

Bottom line: An author may not be ready, without help, for prime time, and therefore a publisher would be foolish to offer a traditional contract. If you want your book to have a better chance, swallow your pride, move past injured feelings, and give your book a chance at a good life through hybrid publication.

See more Publisher Conversations with Authors HERE.

 Learn more about publishing from an acquisitions editor -- how to get your book proposal accepted, why proposals are turned down/accepted, and how to find the right publisher for your book. On special sale for $5 while inventory lasts at MSI Press webstore. Also available as an e-book and an audiobook.

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We help writers become award-winning published authors. One writer at a time. We are a family, not a factory. Do you have a future with us?

Turned away by other publishers because you are a first-time author and/or do not have a strong platform yet? If you have a strong manuscript, San Juan Books, our hybrid publishing division, may be able to help.

Check out information on how to submit a proposal.

Planning on self-publishing and don't know where to start? Our author au pair services will mentor you through the process.

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Julia Aziz, signing her book, Lessons of Labor, at an event at Book People in Austin, Texas.

Want to communicate with one of our authors? 

Steven Greenebaum, author of award-winning books, An Afternoon's Discussion and One Family: Indivisible, talking to a reader at Barnes & Noble in Gilroy, California.

   

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