Stop throwing money at quick fixes—invest in your publishing journey and transform your manuscript into a profitable success story.
Many new authors come to us frustrated about money wasted on ineffective publishing solutions. Unfortunately, these authors are often operating under outdated paradigms about the publishing industry—concepts that became obsolete over 15 years ago.
This was apparent in a recent conversation with an aspiring author who was focused on finding the quickest, cheapest path to publication. What many don’t realize is that successful publishing requires more than just writing talent—it demands industry-specific knowledge and professional guidance.
Beyond Self-Publishing Shortcuts
If you’re serious about making your book profitable, you need to move beyond bare-bones self-publishing services that promise speed and affordability but deliver minimal value. A reputable publisher doesn’t just print your book—they coach you through the entire process and help you navigate the complexities of today’s market.
The Investment Reality
Publishing is like any professional industry—it requires proper training and education. As someone who has spent more on my publishing education than I did for six years of college, I can attest that this investment is essential for success.
Many authors need a frank conversation about these realities. The publishing landscape rewards those who approach it as professionals willing to learn and invest in their development, not those looking for shortcuts.
The Truth About Traditional Publishing Models
Literary agents are increasingly becoming dinosaurs in the modern publishing landscape—parasites that take 15% of an author’s royalties, which are already minimal at just 10-15% from traditional publishers. This outdated model leaves authors with pennies on the dollar for their creative work.
In contrast, hybrid publishers like Defiance Press, who truly understand the industry and provide comprehensive coaching throughout the publishing process, offer authors significantly higher royalty rates—typically between 45-60%. This dramatic difference directly impacts an author’s ability to earn a living from their work and justifies the initial investment in quality publishing services.
The math is clear: even with a higher upfront investment, authors working with knowledgeable hybrid publishers often break even faster and achieve greater long-term profitability than those caught in self publishing services or traditional publishing arrangements with diminishing returns.
If you want to talk about your publishing career path and where it may have taken a bad turn, contact us!
