Question 1

Are you a publishing company?

Accepted Answer

We're not a traditional publishing company. Although we offer many of the same services that a traditional publishing company does, we operate on a "no strings attached" model. We do not own the copyright on any book that we produce, and we do not take any royalties. Instead, self-published authors pay us upfront for editing, formatting, and design services, and then they market and sell their books independently afterwards.
 
Since we are not a traditional publishing company, we do not take responsibility for printing, selling, or marketing our authors' books (although we LOVE to promote and feature our clients on social media (https://www.instagram.com/itsthenextpage/)and on our website)(javascript:void(0)). This enables our clients to retain the most profit possible for each book they sell.

Question 2

What are the benefits of self-publishing?

Accepted Answer

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Question 3

How does the process work?

Accepted Answer

1. Schedule your free author consultation here.(https://www.itsthenextpage.com/get-started)
 
2. Within 48hrs, we'll send you a proposal.
 
3. Select the services you want and submit your deposit and contract.
 
4. We get to work and coordinate with you to complete your book.
 
5. After your final payment, we'll send your print-ready files and help you get them on Amazon.
 
6. We celebrate your book launch together (and the sales start rolling in).

Question 4

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

We require a minimum 50% deposit to secure your service, and we offer flexible monthly installment options to streamline payment of your remaining balance. Your balance must be paid in full before we release your final files.

We accept credit/debit card payments, ACH bank transfer, and Affirm (yes, we do!).

Question 5

How long will it take to launch my book?

Accepted Answer

Our current turnaround time for a standard editing + self-publishing package is 3-4 months from start to finish. That includes the time it takes for authors to review and submit feedback on their manuscripts.
 
Your book may take shorter or longer to produce and will depend on the following factors:
 
- Word count
- Editing tier
- Additional writing or content needed from you
- Deliverables from other vendors (such as author headshots, illustrations, or photos)
 
Project timelines and milestone dates are provided after you submit your retainer and contract.

Question 6

Do your packages include print copies?

Accepted Answer

Our packages do not include any printed copies. Here's why;
 
1. As a self-published author, you will retain full copyright privileges for your book. This means we are not allowed to produce or sell copies of your work. That would go against our "no strings attached" model.
2. Once you create your Amazon KDP account and upload your files, Amazon will allow you to order proofs and author copies at an extremely low rate (we will help you facilitate this). A typical author print price for an average-sized book is $2-$4.
3. After we complete your project, you can log into your Amazon KDP account and order author copies at any time and as often as you need. You will never need to go through us to do this.

Question 7

What book genres do you specialize in?

Accepted Answer

Non-fiction memoirs and self-help books are the most common genres that we work with. We've also edited an array of fiction books, poetry collections, pocket guides, and educational resources. Whatever genre your work falls in, we'd love to hear more about it.

Note: We work with authors from diverse backgrounds, and we honor all experiences and expressions. We are particularly passionate about supporting and amplifying marginalized voices.

Question 8

Do you create eBooks?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you plan on self-publishing a paperback book, it's a good idea to invest in an eBook, too. Ebook formatting is included in our self-publishing packages (learn more about those HERE)(javascript:void(0)), and we also offer a la carte formatting for authors who have already published their books.

Question 9

Do you create children's books?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We can help you edit, illustrate, and self-publish your children's book.

Question 10

I'm still planning/writing my book. When should I start looking for an editor?

Accepted Answer

It's never too early to start. We suggest hiring an editor at least one month prior to finishing your manuscript to ensure that you maintain your momentum. 
 
If you're nearing the end of your writing phase and are running into some blocks, check out our manuscript assessment service.(https://www.itsthenextpage.com/manuscriptassessment) This may be perfect for you if:

- You've started writing, but you're feeling stuck and need some direction
- You're nearing the end of your book, but you're not sure which areas need attention
- You've finished writing your book and hiring a full-scope editor is not in your budget, but you're ready for some general feedback

This service is also helpful for authors who want to traditionally publish and are looking for ways to make their books more marketable to publishers.

Question 11

Where are you based?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and we work with authors across the globe. We conduct our consultations, coaching calls, and manuscript check-ins via phone or Zoom.

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