MSI Press Blog

  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, the topic is one that most first-time authors must confront. Which type of publication is best for him or her? For authors navigating today's publishing landscape, choosing the right path requires more than enthusiasm—it demands clarity. Traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing each carry distinct values, financial models, and degrees of creative control. Let's unpack them, including a critical look at vanity publishing. (Figures given are industry averages based on AI research as of July 2025 availability; note that the publishing industry is volatile--any of the given figures could change considerably as time goes forward...

  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's topic is hybrid publication . Times are changing, and so is the publishing industry. As a publisher, I see it every day: the increasing challenges of traditional publication, the surge in self-publishing, and the rising role of hybrid publication as a practical and promising middle ground. Let’s talk about why hybrid publishing is no longer a fringe option—it’s a realistic and necessary path for many first-time authors. Why Traditional Publishing Is No Longer the Default Traditional publishing, once the gold standard, is becoming less viable—especially for debut authors. The cost of editing, design, printing, distribution,...

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 high...