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Professional Self-Publishing. Serving Authors Since 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kinds of books do you publish?
A: We publish both fiction and nonfiction. Most of our authors write memoirs, self-help, personal growth, and empowerment books, but we can work with many genres.
Q: Are there genres you do not publish?
A: Yes. We do not publish children’s books, cookbooks, coloring books, photo books, audiobooks, erotica, or books that require indexing. This includes academic manuscripts. We can work with references, glossaries, and end notes, but we do not support superscripts or academic formatting.
Q: Will you change my writing?
A: No. Your book stays in your voice. We format and publish the manuscript you submit. The publishing package does not include copyediting, proofreading, rewriting, developmental editing, or editorial coaching. You may hire an outside editor, edit the manuscript yourself, or proceed without copyediting, and you accept responsibility for the condition of the manuscript you submit.
Q: What type of publisher are you?
A: We are a publishing services company. You retain the copyright in your work and own your IngramSpark and Amazon KDP accounts. We handle professional formatting, cover design, and publishing and distribution setup. The platforms provide sales statements and pay you directly under their terms. We are not a traditional or hybrid publisher, and we do not acquire your copyright, pay advances, or publish books under a royalty-share model.
Q: Do you accept previously published books or second editions?
A: We do not accept books previously self-published or published by another publisher or publishing service, even if the prior publishing rights have been cleared. A revised edition may be eligible only when AYW published the first edition and expressly accepts a new publishing package for the revision.
Q: Do I need a finished manuscript to apply?
A: No, but you must have at least fifteen manuscript pages available for the required readiness review before your publishing interview.
Q: What is the minimum and maximum word count?
A: Manuscripts must be at least 20,000 words. The publishing package includes up to 100,000 words. Manuscripts between 100,001 and 150,000 words require the applicable excess-word enhancement, which must be purchased before the manuscript is officially submitted. Manuscripts exceeding 150,000 words are not accepted and must be reduced before submission.
Q: What publishing formats are included?
A: The package includes one paperback edition, one hardcover edition, and one eBook edition. You select a black-and-white or full-color interior independently for the paperback and hardcover. The eBook is prepared in color.
Q: Do I keep my royalties?
A: Yes. You own your IngramSpark and Amazon KDP accounts. Each platform provides its sales statements and pays you directly under its terms. AYW does not collect or disburse your royalties.
Q: Is publishing tax-deductible?
A: Many authors who use their book as part of their business (for marketing, client acquisition, speaking, or brand authority) treat publishing as a business expense. Please consult your accountant or tax professional to determine what applies to your situation.
Q: How do I order copies of my book once it is published?
A: After your book is published, you can order author copies directly through your IngramSpark dashboard at print cost. Orders are placed through your account, not through us.
Q: Where will my book be available?
A: Your book is published through your author-owned IngramSpark and Amazon KDP accounts. Once accepted by the applicable platforms, it may be made available for retailers and libraries to order through their distribution channels, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers. Distribution does not guarantee that a retailer or library will stock, display, or promote the book.
Q: Will my book be stocked in bookstores or libraries?
A: Distribution makes your book orderable, not guaranteed to be stocked. Independent bookstores and libraries decide what they carry. Many authors request local placement directly or order copies for events and signings.
Q: How long does publishing take?
A: AYW aims to publish your book within approximately 90 days after the interior and cover are finalized and the required files, publishing accounts, and platform verifications are ready. This is an estimated timeline. Incomplete requirements, platform reviews or restrictions, and circumstances outside AYW’s control may extend it.
Q: Do you market my book for me?
A: We handle professional publishing setup and distribution. We do not manage marketing, promotion, or launches. Authors choose how and whether to promote their books.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Start by filling out a short application. From there, we will share package details and help you determine the best fit for your book.
