Why I Will Always Champion Independent Publishing

At the start of every year, I have a surge of conversations with people who are thinking seriously about publishing a book. Almost without fail, the same questions come up, usually driven by confusion, outdated assumptions, or half-truths picked up online.

So I am always very clear and very honest about the three main publishing routes available today.

Traditional publishing

Traditional publishing is often the most familiar option. It comes with perceived prestige, broad distribution potential, and the kudos of being published by a recognised name.

It is also the most controlling.

With a traditional publisher, you must have an agent, which you must pay for (usually 10-20% of your royalty), and there is a possibility you may be asked to give up copyright. You will not have the final say on when your book is released, how it is positioned, or how it looks. Content edits may include changes you disagree with, and ultimately, the publisher has the final decision on what goes into the book.

There is also a common misconception that traditional publishing means long-term support. In reality, many authors are moved quickly through a system. Once the book is released, attention often shifts to the next title in the schedule.

Traditional publishing does offer reach, but it is not the hands-off, golden-ticket experience many people imagine.

Self-publishing

At the opposite end of the spectrum is self-publishing.

This route gives you complete control. You retain your copyright, keep all of your royalties, and decide exactly how and when your book goes out into the world.

The trade-off is responsibility.

Self-publishing requires a solid understanding of the publishing industry, from formatting and metadata to distribution, pricing, and rights. It takes time, technical confidence, and a willingness to learn quickly. For some people, that is empowering. For others, it is simply not how they want to spend their time.

Self-publishing is not the easy option, it is the control option.

Independent or hybrid/partnership publishing

Sitting between these two is independent publishing, sometimes called hybrid/partnership publishing. This is the model I will always champion, because when done properly, it offers the best balance. It’s what we do best.

With an independent publisher, you retain control of your work while benefiting from expert guidance. You have professional editorial support, design, production knowledge, and access to the same distribution channels used by traditional publishers.

In many cases, you receive more support, not less. Independent publishers work closely with their authors, not just up to launch, but beyond it. That often includes discussions around new editions, formats, marketing ideas, and long-term positioning.

Royalties are also significantly higher. Where traditional publishing might offer around 10%, independent publishing typically sits anywhere between 50% and 70%, because you have contributed to the production costs rather than paying for them through reduced royalties over time.

Clearing up some common myths

There are a few persistent misunderstandings that are worth addressing head-on.

First, the idea that the big six do not offer hybrid deals. They do. They are just harder to find, harder to access, and often come with a substantial financial commitment. You usually need to know who to speak to, and the costs can be significant.

Second, the belief that independent publishing means paying for publishing. It does not. Authors should expect to contribute towards professional services such as editing, proofreading, formatting, and cover design. If someone asks you to pay simply to be published, that is vanity publishing. Walk away.

Third, the idea that marketing is optional with traditional publishing. It is not. Traditional publishers expect authors to arrive with an audience. You will still be expected to promote your book, build visibility, and drive interest. Publishing route does not remove that responsibility.

Finally, the assumption that traditional publishing guarantees high sales. Current industry figures suggest many traditionally published authors sell between one and three thousand copies over the lifetime of a book. Often, sales in the first week sit in the hundreds. That is not materially different from independent publishing.

Why I back indie publishing

Independent publishing offers professional support, fairer royalties, retained control, and realistic expectations. It allows authors to treat their book as an asset rather than a one-off product, and it respects both the work and the writer.

For many authors today, particularly those with expertise, lived experience, or a clear message, it is not the second-best option. It is the smart one.

That is why, if someone asks me where they should publish, I will always say the same thing.

Go indie.

If you’d like to chat to me about your book, please book here.