Frequently Asked Questions

Hybrid publishing combines the best elements of traditional publishing and self-publishing. Authors invest in professional services while retaining more creative control and higher royalty rates. We handle editing, design, distribution, and marketing while you maintain ownership of your work.

You can submit your manuscript through our Contact page or by emailing support@author-elevate.com. Include your complete manuscript, a brief synopsis (1-2 pages), author bio, and any relevant information about your target audience and marketing efforts.

We work with authors across all genres including fiction (mystery, romance, thriller, science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction), non-fiction (memoir, self-help, business, biography), children's books, and poetry. If you're unsure if your work fits, please reach out to discuss.

The typical timeline from manuscript acceptance to publication is 4-6 months. This includes editing (6-8 weeks), cover design (2-3 weeks), formatting (1-2 weeks), and distribution setup (2-3 weeks). Rush services are available for an additional fee.

Our publishing packages range from $2,500 to $15,000 depending on the services included. Basic packages include editing and formatting, while premium packages include comprehensive marketing, publicity campaigns, and distribution to major retailers. We offer payment plans to make publishing accessible.

Authors receive 50-70% of net royalties depending on their publishing package. This is significantly higher than traditional publishing (typically 10-15%) because you're investing in professional services upfront. You retain all rights to your work.

No. We believe in complete transparency. Your publishing package includes all stated services. Any additional services (rush editing, extra marketing, etc.) are quoted separately before you commit. We provide detailed invoices for all charges.

We offer a full refund within 14 days of signing if no work has begun. Once editing or design work starts, refunds are prorated based on completed work. Please review our Return and Refund Policy for complete details.

We offer four levels of editing: Developmental editing (story structure, plot, character development), Line editing (sentence-level improvements, style, flow), Copyediting (grammar, punctuation, consistency), and Proofreading (final polish, typo correction). Most manuscripts benefit from multiple editing passes.

Yes! While we provide professional cover design services, you have full approval over the final design. We'll create 2-3 initial concepts based on your input, then refine your chosen design until you're completely satisfied. You can also provide your own cover if you prefer.

Yes, all our packages include formatting for both print (paperback and hardcover) and ebook (EPUB, MOBI for Kindle). We ensure your book looks professional across all platforms and devices.

Your book will be available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Kobo, Google Play, and thousands of other online retailers worldwide. We also set up distribution through Ingram, making your book available to libraries and physical bookstores.

Absolutely! Our distribution network covers North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and more. Ebooks are available globally, and print books can be shipped worldwide through our print-on-demand partners.

You'll receive access to a dashboard where you can track sales, royalties, and reviews in real-time. We also provide monthly royalty statements and quarterly business reviews to help you understand your book's performance.

Yes! Our publicity packages include event coordination for book signings, readings, and launch parties. We can connect you with bookstores, libraries, and literary events in your area.

We offer comprehensive marketing including social media campaigns, email marketing, press releases, book trailers, author website development, Amazon optimization, book blog tours, and paid advertising management. Services vary by package.

We leverage our media connections to secure interview opportunities for our authors. We provide media training to prepare you, develop talking points, and coordinate all logistics. These opportunities are excellent for building your author platform.

Yes! We help authors build their online presence through website development, social media strategy, email list building, and content creation. A strong author platform is essential for long-term success in today's publishing landscape.

The International Literary Registration Seal is an official documentation that provides international protection for your literary works. Our literary lawyer processes this registration to establish legal proof of your authorship and creation date, which is essential for protecting your intellectual property across multiple jurisdictions.

Separation of Book Rights is a legal process that divides your book's rights into distinct categories: print rights, digital/ebook rights, audiobook rights, foreign translation rights, film/TV adaptation rights, and merchandise rights. This allows you to license different rights to different parties while maintaining control over others.

Yes, we have an experienced literary lawyer who specializes in publishing law and intellectual property. They can assist with contract reviews, rights negotiations, copyright registration, and processing legal documents like the International Literary Registration Seal and Separation of Book Rights.

Legal service costs vary depending on the complexity of your needs. Basic consultations start at $150/hour. Document processing for International Literary Registration Seal and Separation of Book Rights are available as package services. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific requirements.

Yes, 100%. Unlike traditional publishing where you typically sign over rights, you retain full ownership of your manuscript, cover design, and all associated intellectual property. You can terminate our agreement at any time.

Absolutely. Since you retain all rights, you're free to pursue traditional publishing deals, work with other hybrid publishers, or self-publish future editions. Some of our authors have leveraged their success with us to land traditional deals.

You retain all subsidiary rights including film, TV, audio, and foreign translation rights. Our 'Road to Hollywood' program can help position your book for adaptation opportunities, but any deals are yours to negotiate and profit from.