Question 1

How much will it cost to publish my manuscript from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

This is a difficult question to answer and the most common question we receive. The honest answer is it depends on many factors and your specific needs, including but not limited to: 
Word count
Page length
Trim size of your book (e.g. 6"x9", 5.5"x8.5)"
Any color images inside your book? 
Paper weight and paper color
Amount and type of editing and formatting needed
Is a full jacket cover design needed?
Do you need assistance with U.S. Copyright registration?
Do you need ghostwriting services to improve your manuscript?

At Tomlinson Press, we provide transparent, customized support rather than a one-size-fits-all packages. We'll review your manuscript and goals during a free consultation and give you a clear, itemized quote with no hidden fees.

Question 2

What is the difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing?

Accepted Answer

With traditional publishing, you sell your manuscript rights to a publisher who handles everything (but takes most of the royalties and control). With self-publishing through Tomlinson Press, you keep full creative control and your royalties and pay us a fee, depending on your needs, to get your book ready to go and published. We provide professional support (editing, design, formatting) while you remain the owner and publisher of your work.

Question 3

How long does the self-publishing process take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your current project needs. If your story is written but you need a professional editor and need your book formatted, it will take less time than if you're not finished with the story. Most projects take anywhere from one month to six months, depending on the services needed and how quickly we receive feedback from you. It also depends on what shape your manuscript in is, if you have completed the work, if it's typed properly in a Word document, if you need help formatting, and so on. Most people do not fully understand the work that goes into self-publishing a book and what industry standards are for their genre of book. At Tomlinson Press, we do not self-publish unprofessional-looking books. We want your book to be indistinguishable from books published by a "traditional" publishing company. Communication and collaboration is key to keeping the project on track with your release date goals. We will create a personalized timeline during your free consultation.

Question 4

Do I keep the rights and royalties to my book?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You retain 100% of the rights and ownership of your work. We act as a service provider, not a traditional publisher who takes ownership. You will receive royalties from publishing platforms, retain profits when you sell your books at book signings or other events, and you only pay Tomlinson Press for services required to prepare your interior  and exterior files for publishing.

Question 5

Do I need to have my manuscript completely finished before contacting you?

Accepted Answer

No. You can reach out at any stage whether you have a rough first draft, a completed manuscript, or just an idea. We can help with ghostwriting, developmental editing, or simply polishing your finished book.

If you're not sure what to do, give us a call and let Tomlinson Press walk you through the process.

Question 6

Will my book look and feel professionally published?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our goal is to produce books that are indistinguishable from traditionally published titles  in terms of quality, design, and formatting. Many of our authors' books are successfully selling alongside others on the market.

Question 7

How do you help with book distribution and sales?

Accepted Answer

We set up professional distribution through various platforms so your book is available for purchase worldwide in both print and ebook formats. We also provide guidance on pricing, categories, keywords, SEO, and launch strategies.

Question 8

What genres do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We work with most genres including: memoirs & autobiographies, children's books, Christian and inspirational, poetry, fiction (clean/mainstream), true crime, business & personal development, self-help & non-fiction, and more.

Please note: We do not accept or publish erotica or sexually explicit material.

QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions