The Publishing Blog
Publishing is constantly evolving — platforms change, tools improve, and industry “best practices” don’t always keep up. This blog is where I examine publishing decisions in real time, sharing practical guidance, professional insight, and observations drawn from years working in book production and publishing consulting.
Some posts explore specific publishing topics in depth. Others respond to current tools, trends, or common points of confusion authors face right now. When a topic warrants a more structured or evergreen approach, it’s expanded into resources like the Publishing Foundations Series or In-Depth Education. Everything here is written with the same no-nonsense, professional lens that underpins the rest of my work.
The Real ROI of a Professionally Designed Book
A professionally designed book doesn’t just look good—it converts, builds trust, and sells more. Discover the real ROI of book design with examples.
The Rise of “Organic Literature”: Why Human‑Written Books Are Gaining a Label
Explore the new “Organic Literature” certification for human‑written books, what it means for authors and publishers, and how authenticity is shaping the future of publishing.
Which Publishing Path Is Right for You? A No-B.S. Breakdown of Self, Hybrid, Vanity, and Traditional Models
Confused by publishing options? This post breaks down the four main publishing models—Self, Hybrid, Vanity, and Traditional—so you can choose the best path for your book.
Using AI Without Selling Your Soul (or Rights)
Curious about using AI to speed up your writing or streamline publishing? Here’s how indie authors can use AI tools ethically—without losing rights or credibility.
InDesign, Sigil, and Kindle Create — Choosing the Right Tool for Your Ebook Layout
Not all ebook formatting tools are created equal. Here’s how InDesign, Sigil, and Kindle Create stack up—and which one fits your publishing goals.
Amazon KDP vs IngramSpark vs Lulu vs Draft2Digital: The Ultimate Platform Showdown
Trying to choose between Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, or Draft2Digital? This ultimate indie publishing platform guide compares them all to help you decide.
Booker Jury on Bad Novels: What It Means for Publishing
Roddy Doyle’s critique that many submitted novels are unworthy sparks a reckoning: what does “bad” mean in publishing today?
Let’s Talk Fonts: How to Choose Typefaces That Actually Fit Your Genre
Not sure what fonts to use in your book? Learn the best fonts for print interiors and covers by genre, plus how to pair fonts like a pro.
Why the Arte Público Leadership Change Signals a New Chapter for Latino Literature
Latinx publisher Arte Público sees a new leader. What does this shift mean for unagented authors, digital access & literary diversity?
Review: Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan – A Fantasy Adventure Worth the Quest
Join a mismatched band of adventurers in *Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan*—a witty, puzzle-filled fantasy romp with a print edition that’s a beauty to read.
Understanding Trim Sizes, Margins, and Bleeds—Without Losing Your Mind
What’s the difference between trim size, margins, and bleed? Learn what they mean, how to set them correctly, and why layout matters in your book.
What the $1.5B Anthropic Settlement Means for Writers
Anthropic’s $1.5B settlement over pirated books forces AI ethics, author rights & publishing contracts into sharp relief. What writers need to know.
Book Review: A Canadian Werewolf in New York by Mark Leslie
Discover the humor and suspense of A Canadian Werewolf in New York by Mark Leslie. A witty urban fantasy that blends comedy, thrills, and a refreshingly Canadian take on the werewolf myth.
What Is Book Pre-Production and Why Should You Care?
What is book pre-production—and why does it matter? Learn what happens between your final draft and publication, and how to do it right.
When Fiction Resists: How Ypi & Shafak Illuminate the Power of Story
Top 3 Stories in Publishing & LiteratureLiterature as Resistance: Ypi & ShafakArundhati Roy’s Raw Memoir Hits HardSelf‑Published Romantasy Blasts OffAuthors Lea Ypi and Elif Shafak sat down (virtually) to explore how fiction stands firm against rising...
Finding Courage Between Worlds: Embracing the Magic by Stephen Schneider
What happens when an ordinary teen discovers extraordinary powers? In Embracing the Magic, Stephen Schneider invites readers into a richly imagined realm where friendship, bravery, and the fight for both worlds take center stage.
When to DIY & When to Hire Help (and Where to Find the Right Pros)
Wondering when to DIY and when to hire a pro? Learn how indie authors can decide what to handle solo—and what to outsource for a better book.
Why the End of AP Book Reviews Matters—but Substack and Accountability Could Save Literary Culture
Learn why AP’s end to book review syndication matters—and how Substack and literary accountability offer hope.
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