One of the questions I’m asked most often by aspiring authors is: “Should I self-publish my book or try to get a traditional publishing deal?”
The truth is, there isn’t a single “right” answer. Thanks to technology, the publishing world has changed dramatically over the last decade. Writers today have more opportunities than ever before to get their books into readers’ hands but they also face more choices, more information, and unfortunately, more companies making promises that sound too good to be true.
If you’ve just finished writing your book, congratulations! That’s a huge achievement. The next question is how you want to publish it.
Understanding the different publishing models is the first step towards making an informed decision. The three most common routes are Traditional Publishing, Self-Publishing, and Vanity Publishing. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best option depends entirely on your goals as an author.
Traditional Publishing
For many writers, securing a traditional publishing deal remains the dream. In this model, a publishing house acquires the rights to your manuscript, invests in producing the book, and pays you royalties from sales. Depending on the publisher and your contract, you may also receive an advance against future royalties.
The journey, however, requires patience. Many large publishers now accept submissions only through literary agents, although some independent publishers still accept manuscripts directly. Before approaching publishers, you’ll usually need to prepare a professional query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters (for fiction), or a detailed book proposal (for non-fiction).
Competition is fierce, and it can take months or even years to secure representation or a publishing contract.
If your manuscript is accepted, your publisher will usually manage:
- Professional editing
- Cover design
- Typesetting
- Printing
- Distribution
- ISBN allocation
- Retail placement
- Some marketing and publicity
One important misconception I’d like to address is this: Many new writers believe a traditional publisher will do all the marketing for them.
While publishers certainly provide support, today’s authors are expected to actively promote their books too. Building an online presence, engaging with readers, attending events, and growing your audience are now important regardless of how you’re published.
Traditional Publishing may suit you if:
- You want industry recognition.
- You’re happy to wait for publication.
- You’d like a publisher to manage production.
- You’re comfortable giving up some creative control in exchange for professional support.
Self-Publishing (Independent Publishing)
Self-publishing has transformed the publishing industry. Today, authors can publish professionally produced books that sit alongside traditionally published titles on Amazon, Kobo, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and many other retailers. More importantly, authors retain control.
With self-publishing, you decide:
- your publication date
- your cover design
- your pricing
- your marketing strategy
- when to release future books
You also retain a much higher percentage of royalties than traditional publishing.
Modern print-on-demand services mean you no longer need to order hundreds or thousands of books upfront. Books are printed only when a customer places an order, significantly reducing financial risk. You can also publish simultaneously as:
- Paperback
- Hardcover
- eBook
- Audiobook
One of the biggest advantages is speed. A book can move from completed manuscript to worldwide publication in a matter of weeks rather than years. However, self-publishing also means taking responsibility for your book’s success. That includes investing in:
- Professional editing
- Cover design
- Formatting
- Marketing
- Building your author platform
Publishing the book is only half the journey, helping readers discover it is the other half.
Self-publishing may suit you if:
- You want complete creative control.
- You’d like to publish more quickly.
- You’re entrepreneurial.
- You’re willing to market your own work.
- You want higher royalty earnings.
Vanity Publishing
Vanity publishing is probably the publishing model that causes the most confusion. A vanity press charges authors to publish their books but often presents itself as if it were a traditional publisher.
Unlike self-publishing, where you’re paying for specific professional services while retaining ownership and control, some vanity publishers charge significant fees yet offer limited transparency, inflated promises, or contracts that aren’t in the author’s best interests.
This doesn’t mean every company charging authors is unethical. The important question is: what exactly are you paying for? Before signing any agreement, make sure you understand:
- Who owns the copyright?
- Who owns the files?
- How much do you earn per sale?
- Can you leave the publisher later?
- What marketing is actually included?
- Are there ongoing fees?
If a company guarantees bestseller status or pressures you into expensive packages without explaining the value, that’s a warning sign. Always read contracts carefully and ask questions.
What about Hybrid Publishing?
One publishing model that has grown significantly over the last decade is hybrid publishing. Hybrid publishers combine aspects of traditional publishing and self-publishing. Typically, the author contributes towards production costs while the publisher provides professional editing, design, production, project management, and sometimes marketing support. A reputable hybrid publisher should be transparent about:
- costs
- royalties
- rights
- responsibilities
When done well, hybrid publishing can be an excellent option for authors who want professional support while retaining more control than traditional publishing usually offers. As with any publishing agreement, always research the company thoroughly before signing.
Publishing is only the beginning
One of the biggest changes in publishing over the last decade is this: publishing a book is easier than ever but selling books is harder than ever.
With millions of books available online, readers have endless choice. Successful authors invest time in building relationships with readers through newsletters, websites, social media, speaking engagements, podcasts, book clubs, and community.
Whether you’re traditionally published or self-published, your visibility matters.
So which publishing route should you choose?
Ask yourself these questions:
- How quickly do I want to publish?
- Do I want complete creative control?
- Am I prepared to market my book?
- Is earning higher royalties important to me?
- Do I want a publishing team to guide me through the process?
- What’s my long-term goal as an author?
Your answers will help determine which publishing path best aligns with your ambitions.
Comparison Table:
| Traditional Publishing | Self-Publishing | Vanity Publishing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Usually none | Varies depending on services | Usually high |
| Creative Control | Limited | Full control | Often limited |
| Time to Publish | 1–3 years | Weeks or months | Usually quick |
| Royalties | Lower | Higher | Usually low |
| Professional Support | Excellent | You choose your team | Varies greatly |
| Marketing | Shared responsibility | Mostly your responsibility | Often minimal despite promises |
| Best For | Writers seeking a traditional publishing career | Authors wanting speed and control | Rarely recommended without careful research |
Questions to ask before choosing a publisher
Before signing any contract, ask yourself (and the publisher):
- Who owns my copyright?
- Who owns the cover design and interior files?
- Can I leave later if I choose?
- What royalties will I receive?
- How will my book be distributed?
- What marketing is included?
- Are there any hidden costs?
- Will my book be available worldwide?
- Can I order my own books at a discount?
- What happens if the company closes?
If a publisher is unwilling to answer these questions clearly, that’s a sign to proceed with caution.
My recommendation
There’s no single “best” publishing route, only the one that’s best for you.
The right choice depends on your goals, budget, timeline, and the kind of author career you want to build.
I’ve worked with writers who have successfully chosen traditional publishing, self-publishing, and hybrid publishing. The most successful authors aren’t necessarily those who chose one route over another, they’re the ones who understood their options and made informed decisions.
Need help choosing the right publishing route?
Choosing how to publish your book can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. As an author, publisher, and writing coach, I’ve helped many writers navigate the publishing journey with confidence.
Whether you’re considering traditional publishing, self-publishing, or exploring hybrid publishing, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. I can help you:
- Understand the different publishing options
- Prepare your manuscript for publication
- Navigate the self-publishing process with confidence
- Build an author platform and marketing strategy
- Avoid costly mistakes that many first-time authors make
Ready to take the next step?
- Explore my Self-Publishing Course
- Book a free 15-minute consultation
- Download my guide: Avoiding the New Author Trap – Self-Publishing Success for First-Time Authors. It’s full of practical advice for new writers who want to self-publish their work. Get yours now!