What Should You Ask Book Publishing Services Providers?

Publishing a book is a big achievement. Whether it's your first book or your tenth, working with the right publishing service provider can make all the difference. But before you sign any agreement or pay a fee, it's important to know what to ask. Asking the right questions ensures you understand the process, the costs, and the level of support you’ll receive. It also helps you avoid any misunderstandings and ensures your book gets the attention it deserves.

In this article, we will walk you through the essential questions to ask book publishing services providers. These questions will help you find the right team that fits your needs, budget, and publishing goals.

What Kind of Publishing Do You Offer?

One of the first questions to ask is about the type of publishing the provider offers. Some companies focus on self-publishing, others offer hybrid models, and some follow the traditional publishing route. Each model works differently.

Self-publishing gives the author full control but also means you're responsible for funding the project. Hybrid publishing is a mix of self-publishing and traditional publishing. You share some of the costs, but also get some support from the publisher. Traditional publishing usually involves submitting your manuscript for approval, and the publisher takes on all production costs. However, it’s often more competitive and selective.

Understanding the model a company follows helps you know what role you’ll play in the process and what level of control and ownership you’ll have.

What Is Included in Your Publishing Packages?

Not all book publishing services include the same features. Some may offer complete packages, while others only offer specific services like editing or cover design.

You should ask exactly what’s included in their publishing package. Does it cover editing, formatting, ISBN assignment, distribution, cover design, and marketing? Or are some of these services optional add-ons?

Knowing what you’re paying for helps you avoid hidden costs later. It also helps you compare one service with another more accurately. A transparent list of services and pricing reflects professionalism and builds trust.

Do I Keep the Rights to My Book?

Ownership rights are a critical aspect of any publishing agreement. Some publishing services require you to sign over some or all of your rights. This can limit your ability to sell the book elsewhere or use parts of your content in future works.

Ask if you will retain full rights to your manuscript after publication. The best book publishing services will allow you to keep your rights, especially in self-publishing and hybrid models. If a company asks for your copyright or restricts your use of your own work, make sure you understand why and if it’s worth the trade off.

How Do You Handle Book Distribution?

A great book won’t sell if readers can’t find it. That’s why it’s essential to ask about distribution. Find out where your book will be available. Will it be sold on Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Barnes & Noble, or local bookstores?

Some companies may only offer online distribution, while others can get your book into libraries and physical stores. The broader the distribution, the better your chance of success. Ask if they distribute both print and digital versions and what formats (paperback, hardcover, eBook) they support.

What Kind of Editing Do You Provide?

Editing is one of the most important parts of publishing. A poorly edited book can ruin a great story. Ask what types of editing are included. Do they offer developmental editing (which helps with structure and plot), line editing (which improves flow), or copy editing and proofreading (which correct grammar and spelling)?

Also ask if editing is done by professional editors with experience in your genre. Quality book publishing services will have a skilled editing team or offer options to hire an editor suited to your specific needs.

Can I Approve the Final Design and Layout?

As an author, your book’s appearance matters. From the cover to the inside pages, the design plays a role in how readers judge your book. Ask the publishing provider if you’ll have a say in the design process. Can you approve or suggest changes to the cover? Will you get to see the interior layout before it goes to print?

Some companies may use standard templates, while others offer custom design services. Make sure you are part of the process. It’s your book and it should look the way you imagined it.

What Is the Timeline for Publishing My Book?

Publishing a book is not instant. It involves multiple stages of editing, design, formatting, and distribution. Ask how long the whole process will take from start to finish. Will it take a few weeks or several months?

Understanding the timeline helps you plan your launch, marketing, and promotions. It also helps avoid frustration or missed opportunities. A good book publishing services provider should be able to give you a clear schedule and keep you updated throughout the process.

What Are the Costs Involved?

Always ask about the total cost and what’s included in it. Some providers might offer low base prices but charge extra for important services like editing, revisions, or marketing.

Get a written quote or proposal that lists all fees. Ask about payment plans if needed. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Reliable book publishing services will be upfront about all costs and won’t surprise you with hidden charges.

Also, check if there are any refund policies or guarantees in case you’re not satisfied with the service.

Will My Book Be Marketed or Promoted?

Marketing plays a key role in your book’s success. Ask the provider if they offer marketing support. Will they help you build an author website, create press releases, or run social media ads? Do they have a mailing list or contacts in the media?

Some companies include basic marketing in their packages, while others charge separately. If you’re a new author, marketing support can be incredibly valuable. Even the best written book won’t sell if people don’t know it exists.

Can You Share Examples or Client Testimonials?

It’s always wise to ask for proof of past success. Can the provider share published books they’ve worked on? Can they connect you with authors who have used their services? Do they have online reviews or testimonials?

Seeing real examples helps you understand the quality of work they deliver. It also gives you a better idea of what to expect in terms of design, layout, and editing. Trustworthy book publishing services will be happy to share their portfolio or refer you to satisfied clients.

What Support Do You Offer After Publishing?

Publishing is just the start of your journey. After your book goes live, you may need help updating files, checking sales reports, or promoting the book over time.

Ask the provider what kind of post-publishing support they offer. Do they provide regular updates or performance tracking? Can you contact someone for help or changes later? Having ongoing support means you're not left alone once the book is published.

Will I Earn Royalties, and How Are They Paid?

Finally, ask how much you’ll earn from each sale. What percentage of the book price do you keep? How often are royalties paid? Is it monthly, quarterly, or annually? Can you track your earnings in real time?

Different book publishing services have different royalty models. Some take a large cut of your earnings, while others let you keep most of the profits. Always read the fine print and make sure you understand the royalty structure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a publishing partner is a big decision. It can shape your experience as an author and affect the success of your book. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the more informed you are, the better your outcome will be.

Look for book publishing services that are honest, experienced, and supportive. Make sure you understand every part of the process, from editing and design to royalties and rights. Take your time, compare options, and always trust your instincts.

Your book deserves the best chance to succeed and asking the right questions is the first step.