Fantasy author Michael J. Sullivan’s first five books were a great success. Being a self-published author, he had the autonomy and flexibility to work on manuscript production, design, editing, and structuring the book. By using online publishing platforms such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), and IngramSpark, the author had the creative control to export the file into both print and digital formats and get potential royalties.
Whether you are a fiction or novel writer, and are planning to create a thrilling adventure novel. You are required to choose a suitable publishing path that meets your publishing criteria. Understanding the significance of traditional publishing vs self-publishing strategy empowers you to employ a well-planned approach to publishing that maximizes your work’s impact and keeps readers engrossed from the first page to the last.
If you are a new writer and are unable to manage publication activities. In such a case, choosing traditional publishing is a highly beneficial option for you. Traditional publishing houses manage all the publishing aspects, including book production, design, formatting, marketing, and distribution. However, there are some cons of choosing traditional publishing. The authors are required to send queries to find a suitable literary agent who acts as an advocate and pitch the manuscript to the publisher. The author has to wait for up to two years for the book to be published and reach the bookstores. Another issue is limited royalties, which authors receive after the early payment is earned back through sales.
Some authors won’t allow publishers to handle the publishing workflow as they desire to exercise their freedom of control in publishing. With the evolution of self-publishing, traditional publishers and authors have moved to the self-publishing path. Indie authors and publishers retain their complete creative control in handling book production, cover design, editing, and formatting. For prompt marketing and distribution of books to a global audience, the publishers take professional assistance from online platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing or IngramSpark. Additionally, they have the autonomy to attain higher royalty rates. Consequently, some authors select hybrid models that combine traditional and self-publishing.
An AI algorithm has streamlined the book publishing process. Self-publishing authors utilize publishing tools to perform a wide range of tasks, such as brainstorming the topic, theme, or plot of the story. For instance, Scrivener, an AI-powered writing tool, facilitates novelists in drafting book outlines, organizing chapters, and sections of the book. Hemingway Editor and Grammarly, AI-powered editing tools, detect grammatical and punctuation errors and enhance narrative. Style and tone. Moreover, the tools assist in crafting eye-catching cover designs.
Today, niche book markets are thriving due to modern publishing trends. The rise of self-publishing, AI algorithms, and hybrid publishing has reshaped the publishing landscape. The niche publishing and marketing trends have provided the voice of the reader a platform to build direct, authentic connections with micro-communities. The targeted audience with similar reading choices and trends shares their valuable feedback on TikTok, Discord, and Facebook Groups. The reader’s feedback creates a ripple effect, fosters deeper engagement, and increases buzz around the new publication.
Finish and Refine Your Manuscript
Write your complete first draft
Suppose you have started with brainstorming ideas to craft a fantasy novel. Before diving into writing, begin with a spontaneous thinking process. As creative ideas begin to flow, you may capture them in a notepad before they vanish. Mental images, vision, and thoughts that come to mind allow you to craft an exciting plot, create bright and engaging characters, dialogues, and mesmerizing scenes. So, without any delay, you should begin pouring out your ideas in the preliminary version.
The rough draft may appear to be haphazard as the content lacks flow and consistency, repetition of ideas, and uninteresting word choices. Since the first version is not attention-grabbing for both the audience and publishers, many writers begin to feel demotivated and quit writing.
To gain momentum in writing, novice book writers have the option to approach book writing services. The experts facilitate from the prewriting stage to book editing, refining the manuscript, and assisting authors in the publication process. From idea generation to conducting topic and theme research, the experienced authors assist fiction writers in gathering relevant material from various credible sources. The texts and references collected help novelists craft a thrilling plot, stimulating theme, settings, and memorable characters.
The experts develop a detailed outline of each chapter. An overview of each chapter gives readers an idea about the book. The book framework gives a clear roadmap for the author to maintain a cohesive flow and transition throughout the book.
Editing Process in 2025
To edit the preliminary draft, some authors prefer self-editing while others hire professional editors. Editing a first draft involves a multi-stage process. For smooth and comprehensive editing, the copyeditors employ modern AI tools such as Grammarly, ProWritingAid, and Sudowrite. The editing software analyzes the significant aspects of storytelling, such as identifying plot holes, inconsistent character arcs, pacing, logical flow, and improving the overall structure of the narrative. The tools highlight irrelevant paragraphs or multiple words that make the manuscript monotonous. The editing tools organize all the files in a single place, making it easier for reviewers to modify, improve the consistency and readability of the text.
Beta Readers & Critique Partners
Self-publishing authors also prefer beta readers or critique partners to provide feedback and recommendations to enrich the content. The beta readers conduct an in-depth review of the preliminary draft and highlight the issues, such as character relatability, slow plot pacing, dull scenes, settings, and other confusing elements that break the transition of reading. The critique partners focus on high-level story elements such as the organizational and technical aspects of the book. The analysis covers loopholes in plot, character development, lack of coherence between chapters and sections, and inconsistency in narrative style. They add engaging vocabulary and creative elements such as fascinating illustrations and animations that provides an immersive reading experience.
Prepare Your Novel for Publication
Multiple Rounds of Editing
To turn your final draft into a polished manuscript implies that the final version is meticulously reviewed by experienced and skilled editors. The authors and publishers join writing groups and publishing platforms such as Reedsy, David McKay Publications that connect them with expert team of editors. The editorial team conducts developmental and structural editing, such as analyzing plot development, character arc, pacing, and transitions between paragraphs. The experts also ensure that a strong and unique narrator’s style remains consistent throughout the story. For in-depth editorial scrutiny, the editing team employs various editing tools that ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency in content and maintain a professional tone in the narrative.
Book Formatting, both Print and E-Book Formatting
Professional book publishers conduct comprehensive book formatting for both print and e-book formats using formatting tools, Atticus or Vellum. The print book formatting includes setting the physical dimensions of the printed book, fixing correct margins, and appropriate binding. Selecting readable and relevant fonts with consistent sizes and styles. The proofreaders also check page numbering, the correct placement of headers and footers, and add chapter breaks. Additionally, the formatters place high-resolution illustrations in between the text. Regarding e-book formatting, an editorial designer ensures that the book is converted into ePub, MOBI, and PDF versions that are compatible with all e-reader devices.
Book Cover Design
New book publishers who intend to introduce their latest releases in the market hire a professional designer or reputable book publishing services to design eye-catching covers that attract a wider audience. The book designers create a compelling book cover that represents the theme, topic, and storyline of the book
To craft a visually appealing cover design, the illustrators add creative visuals, adjust the color pattern, and topography of the book. Laminated covers with visual elements, color images, and graphics give a more professional and elegant look to book covers. Some authors use AI-generated art covers created with AI design tools like Midjourney and Canva Pro. The designers edit and finalize the layout and cover designs. Thus, artistry, style, and eye-catching designs of paperback, hardcover, and e-book covers leave a lasting visual impact on readers and boost book discoverability in online marketplaces.
ISBN, Copyright, and Metadata
If you are a new self-publisher and have no idea of how to obtain an ISBN for your newly published fiction, and also get copyright registration. In such a case, you have the option to seek professional assistance from publishing services. David McKay Publications offers ISBN and copyright assistance as part of their publishing services. The publishing house has dedicated teams that provide end-to-end solutions, including handling the process of obtaining and assigning an ISBN for the author’s publication. They offer bundle ISBN allocation and competently manage the registration process, providing a unique identification code for each book format.
To register the copyright for their original book, indie authors can approach publishing services such as the David McKay Company. Professional book publishers guide authors regarding the significance of retaining copyright ownership to gain additional legal benefits. The accredited author is liable to file an infringement lawsuit and claim damages. The experts also facilitate through the administrative and legal requirements of publishing, such as filing and applying for registration with the copyright office. The publishing service also facilitates the actual registration of the copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office on the author’s behalf.
The publishing services further assist indie authors with metadata management. Metadata helps boost the book’s discoverability and sales on Amazon and other online publishing platforms. The metadata specialists conduct extensive research in creating relevant and engaging keywords and create metadata descriptions. Metadata also includes book title, genre, author names/bios, ISBNs, publication dates, pricing, and cover images. Metadata is sent to a wide book distribution network, wholesalers, online retailers, libraries, and digital publishing platforms such as, Amazon, Apple iBooks, and Kobo. Metadata experts regularly analyze and update metadata based on changing market trends. Implementing the latest metadata standards helps increase search visibility, boost click-through rates, and sales volume.
Publish and Distribute
Book Production, Publication, and Marketing Support for Self-publishers
Self-publishers who have adapted the roles of writer, editor, designer, and marketer exercise their autonomy in managing the publishing workflow. From book production to design, self-editing, formatting, and layout, they employ various tools to prepare both e-book and print formats.
To begin with the self-publishing of a manuscript, indie authors are required to choose a relevant publishing platform. They may choose Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Apple Books, Draft2Digital, and Smashwords. Once the publishing site is selected, the self-published author sets up their account and provides the company details, tax, and payment information. The next step follows uploading the title. The author has to choose the format, either print or e-book, and add book details, including the book title, description, ISBN, keywords, and author information.
Along with book information, the publishers also specify print details such as trim size, paper type, and binding. Clicking on the Manuscript and Cover section helps authors to upload the final manuscript and cover files. For print format, the authors should convert the file into PDF format, while the digital format includes DOCX or EPUB. Before publishing, the authors are required to take a final preview of the uploaded file. By selecting the Launch Previewer tool, the publisher checks book covers and other formatting errors and uploads a separate file for each book format. The author also sets an optimal pricing strategy and chooses distribution options, including eBooks, print-on-demand, and audiobooks. For marketing, self-publishers develop marketing campaigns for various digital platforms such as websites, social media, email marketing, and sharing book reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
How Traditionally Published Authors Conduct Book Publishing and Marketing?
The authors who have recently joined the publishing industry should opt for the traditional publishing route. Though traditional publishing is time-consuming and exhaustive for new authors, it offers professional publishing assistance. The authors do not need to pay upfront costs and have access to professional services. Including book production, design, editing, marketing, and distribution. The other benefit is that a manuscript published by a publishing house has more credibility and visibility in a competitive book market. The publishers also manage marketing campaigns for digital platforms and establish global book distribution networks that disseminate the printed books to both online retailers and physical stores.
Along with lucrative benefits, the authors also face challenges in traditional publishing. The authors encountered difficulty in the book submission procedure. The authors who seek a publishing service’s assistance are required to find a literary agent who represents the interests of the writers to the publishers and also pitch the manuscripts to the publisher. Since many publishing houses have set their publishing criteria of not accepting unsolicited submissions, the authors are required to find a literary agent who submits their work to a publishing house. The authors sent query letters to the book agents with high publishing experience and strategically positioned the manuscript with a publisher. The agent also provides editorial feedback to improve manuscript quality and sends submissions to various publishing houses for publishing acceptance.
As the manuscript is accepted by publishers, the literary agent negotiates the publishing contract with the publishers on behalf of the author. They ensure that the publishers offer fair compensation in the form of advance payment and royalties. The most frustrating aspect for authors is waiting for an extended period for book publishing and launching.
Pre-Launch and Post-Launch Marketing of the Novel
Creating an Author Platform in 2025
To develop pre-launch and post-launch marketing implies that the professional book publishing services build anticipation around the book by building the author’s brand. It includes promoting the author and his publication through websites. The author shares their existing and upcoming published books on the product pages. The compelling book pages include a book description, an outline of the chapters, and a comprehensive book review. The authors also create blogs and feature articles that showcase the significance of reading the book. The landing page also includes buy links and social media hashtags that drive traffic to the site. Marketers embed the newsletter in an email to communicate directly with fans. The newsletter includes book descriptions and essential features of the book, exclusive content like chapters, quotes, and excerpts from the book that entice readers to purchase their copy.
Pre-launch buzz
To generate excitement and anticipation in the audience for an upcoming manuscript, the author and publisher send exclusive marketing content such as fascinating book covers, teaser chapters, and advance reader copies (ARCs) to industry experts. The publishers build relationships with bloggers, authors, reviewers, and scholars who promote the new book through writing guest posts, creating podcasts, reader reviews, testimonials, and author interviews. Literary influencers increase book discoverability on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. They reach new readers through interacting with online communities.
A well-executed pre-launch campaign also includes creating a media kit with an engaging press release, a compelling book description, an ISBN, an author bio, and advanced reader copies (ARCs), as well as other engaging marketing content that wins readers’ hearts.
Launch Week Strategy
To generate early sales volume and gather more leads, renowned book writing services initiate a launch week campaign. It involves book marketing experts to create a strategic marketing plan for digital platforms such as social media, website, email, and media that drive initial sales. The publishing house announces the book launch activities on its website and sends promotional emails to an extensive audience. A newsletter or a handout with a book cover attached to the email creates excitement and curiosity in the audience. The publishers also offer exclusive discounts or other incentives that entice new readers to purchase the book.
A launch day social media campaign includes sharing engaging content, sneak peeks, compelling brand’s story, videos with designated hashtags on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube help publishers generate leads and sales. The other launch activities include motivating readers to share their reviews and experiences with other readers on review sites like Amazon and Goodreads to increase book visibility among a global audience.
Developing a teaser campaign allows publishers to build excitement and anticipation in the audience through sharing intriguing content related to the newly published book. It includes share sneak peeks of upcoming books, bonus chapters, excerpts, dialogues, quotes, book descriptions, and visuals. The marketers also add a unique campaign hashtag, a newsletter signup link, preorder discounts and giveaways, and a multi-platform distribution plan that increases readership.
Post-launch Marketing
The ongoing book launch campaign allows professional book publishing services to optimize book launch campaigns through employing AI tools, BookBub Insights, and Google Analytics. The marketing campaign team initiates more exciting campaign activities that attract new and existing readers, build brand awareness, and drive more sales. For instance, they organize book signings and reading sessions with the author, and Q/A gatherings that increase interaction between the author and audience. Arrange virtual book tours, podcasts, and author interviews on social media. The social media experts encourage readers to share feedback on websites and social media. The encouraging reviews highlighting different aspects of the book create a buzz around the new book. SEO and paid media specialists optimize content for search engines and manage paid advertising campaigns, including Amazon Ads, Meta, and TikTok, that help expand book discoverability and sales in the global book market. Personalized and targeted campaigns integrated with changing publishing and market trends resonate with the intended audience’s preferences and choices, bring better conversion rates and ROI.
Emerging Trends in Novel Publishing (2025 & Beyond)
The Rise of AI-assisted Writing and Immersive Experiences
Professional writers and publishers are now employing AI content-generating tools to develop creative ideas to draft engaging plots, scenes, and other novel elements. Moreover, AI-assisted content generates a first draft, creates book descriptions, and creates fascinating book covers. The publishing supervisors use AI editing tools to streamline editorial processes. The software helps in identifying grammar and syntax flaws, analyzing pacing and character development, and enriching narrative structure.
The authors use augmented reality (AR) and interactive elements to create fascinating storytelling. An interactive narrative allows readers to interact with characters and objects in a new environment. Blending the physical and digital worlds with an innovative approach fosters a deeper level of engagement with the story.
Reader-Driven Publishing Platforms
Self-published authors are increasingly building direct relationships with readers through digital platforms where readers actively interact and leave their feedback and reviews. It includes email marketing, author’s platform, and social media channels that increase book marketability. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram enthrall potential customers and supporters to share their reviews, comments, reels, and visuals related to the book to boost book promotion among other literary communities.
Audiobook and Podcast Storytelling Integration
An exponential growth of audiobooks provides easy access to viewers to listen to book chapters, or descriptions, and deeply visualize the scenes. The Integration of audiobook and podcast storytelling has come up as an engaging narration approach that blends the immersive narrative with sound design techniques that engross listeners. Publishers create serialized episodes, breaking them into short chapters and adding rich soundscapes, music, and sound effects that gives an immersive listening experience.
Recapitulate
The book-writing journey can be intimidating for many writers; at the same time, many writers enjoy the writing process. It is an exciting moment for them to boost their creative juices and come up with brilliant ideas to create a thrilling and mesmerizing fiction. The first step to gain momentum in writing is to start writing whatever comes to mind. The writer not need to think about word count or coherence and flow in the text. Here comes the initial draft. The first version is not always a perfect piece of writing with unstructured sentences, grammar and syntax errors, and redundant paragraphs. Writer’s block and fear of the publisher’s criticism dishearten many writers, forcing them to quit writing. To revitalize their writing power, novice writers are encouraged to seek professional assistance. Professional book writing services facilitate authors from the pre-writing phase to manuscript editing, designing book covers, proofreading, and structuring the book. The other benefits of a publishing house are marketing and promotional support, and distributing the print and digital format books worldwide. However, the writers face the challenge of finding a literary agent who pitches their work to the publisher.
The changing publishing landscape has brought convenience, ease, and creative autonomy to writers to handle book publishing tasks effectively. Consequently, novel writing and publishing have become more exciting for young authors. The rise of self-publishing platforms and AI-assisted tools continues to empower authors, offering them complete creative control in managing publishing workflow. Utilizing self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark enables independent writers to publish their work without a literary agent’s help. Online publishing sites smoothly convert the files into both print and e-book versions. Novel and fiction writers employ AI writing and editing tools to perform a wide range of tasks, such as brainstorming, outlining, editing, formatting, and creating eye-catching cover designs. Additionally, authors create various formats, including e-books and audiobooks, that expand book reach. Modern publishing trends strongly encourage fiction writers to innovate and enhance their creativity by joining writing forums, literary communities, and digital platforms. It is an art to write a captivating book, so keep penning down your unique and engaging thoughts. This could be the beginning of creating something unique. Your creativity highlights the essence of starting your creative journey—the leap from a blank page to a finished masterpiece that will enthrall your readers.
