WHAT DOES A PUBLISHING CONSULTANT DO?

April 5, 2023

I’m often asked what I do and how I work with authors. What is a Publishing Consultant, and do you really need one?

Think of a Publishing Consultant as the Producer and Creative Director of your book project. What we do is listen to your ideas and goals, and read what you have so far. Then we sit down with you, to educate and advise you on the best way forward to accomplish your objectives.

There are currently six paths to publishing: the Big Five and other traditional publishers, small presses, assisted and hybrid publishers, indie or self-publishing, and social publishing through an author’s own platforms. The Big Five – Penguin Random House, Harper Collings, Hachette, Simon & Schuster, and Macmillan – are often seen as the gold standard of acceptance into the literary community, but there are pros and cons to every publishing option.

Often, a Publishing Consultant is also an Editor who has experience developing and organizing book themes and content. It’s always a good idea to have fresh eyes on your manuscript, so meeting with a consultant is a good place to start.

In my role, I see myself as your publishing partner. I’m on your side; I want the best experience and outcome for you, and I’m with you every step of the way. I have over 25 years of experience as an editor and over ten years as a producer of memorable and marketable books. I do what I love and I’m very interested and invested in your stories and your success as an author.