The Independent Publishing Magazine

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The Independent Publishing Magazine

The Independent Publishing Magazine was an online magazine for independent authors and publishers. Our readership is both authors and industry professionals.

The Independent Publishing Magazine (TIPM) launched in late 2007 by Mick Rooney. TIPM covers many aspects of independent publishing, including: self-publishing, hybrid publishing, traditional publishing, book marketing, technology and news. TIPM provides an objective view on global publishing from the perspective of authors who want to publish their books outside mainstream channels. Over the past

20 years, the stigma and limitations of self-publishing have eroded, evening the playing field, so that savvy independent authors and publishers have opportunities to attract readers. Readers’ access to good books is no longer controlled by a few gatekeepers. TIPM was purchased by Mark Levine in late 2024. TIPM will continue to cover the individuals and companies in the independent publishing space that are creating opportunities for authors to succeed.

16/06/2025

Designing a book doesn’t have to drain your wallet-or your energy.
Eleanor Hecks of Magazine shares 5 smart, realistic ways indie publishers can keep design costs down without sacrificing quality.

From DIY tools to working with freelancers the right way, this one’s packed with practical insight.
A grounded, useful read for anyone bringing books into the world. ✍️
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You spent months pouring your heart and soul into your book. Now, it’s time to format it, find the perfect cover design and launch your story into the world. The costs of paying developmental editors, proofreaders, cover designers and interior formatting professionals can add up. Finding budget-fr...

12/06/2025

🎭 Characters that truly connect don’t just happen—they’re built with care, curiosity, and craft.
In this insightful piece, Josje Weusten-author at Fake Fish, breaks down how complexity, contradiction, and small interactions can bring fictional people to life.
For independent publishers and writers, it’s a clear, refreshing take on making readers care.

A smart, grounded read for anyone shaping stories:
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Fictional, literary characters only exist as words on a page. Compiled out of dots, curved and straight lines in ink, they are textual inventions. Even if inspired by actual persons, written characters are not the same as real human beings. And yet, as readers, we can feel deeply connected to and mo...

04/06/2025

🖊️ Doodling might seem like a distraction—but for creative writers, it could be a surprising source of insight.

In this thoughtful, practical read, Josje Weusten-author of Fish-shares how sketching can unlock new story angles, deepen character work, and even help organize messy ideas. For independent publishers and writers alike, it’s a reminder that creativity isn’t always linear-and that a pen and paper can do more than just write.

A fresh take on boosting your writing process:
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My first inclination is to stop her, to reach out and fold my hand around the girl’s fingers. She’s holding a soft 2B pencil instead of the regular HB grade and she’s sketching while she should be writing. I am offering a guest workshop on creative writing in the final year at my former second...

22/05/2025

📚 International publishing deals can open big doors—but they can also come with hidden strings.

In this smart, practical read, Lindsay Jones of DropCap breaks down the red flags independent publishers should watch for in global contracts. From confusing royalty clauses to vague rights language, she shares what to look out for—and what to walk away from.

A must-read if you're eyeing international rights or already in talks.
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Signing an international publishing rights deal can open new doors for independent authors, expanding their reach and revenue potential. However, without proper safeguards in place, authors risk signing away critical rights or accepting terms that are far less favorable than they should be. Publishe...

21/05/2025

📘 What happens when a book deal is on the table—but the author has passed away?

Sarah Kolb-Williams of Spoonbridge Press shares a thoughtful take on the unique challenges (and responsibilities) of publishing a deceased author’s work. From contracts to creative control, it’s a must-read for indie publishers navigating complex rights issues.

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IndependentPublishing.com’s Ask a Self-Publishing Expert column provides answers to reader questions. This month, our self-publishing expert, Sarah Kolb-Williams, answers a question from Khalid, who is trying to become the authorized representative of his deceased mother’s KDP account. Here’s ...

14/05/2025

📘 Book marketing doesn’t have to feel transactional.

In this insightful piece, Beatrice Lebrun of StoryForge explores how independent publishers and authors can build genuine connections with readers-without relying on aggressive sales tactics.

She offers practical, relationship-focused strategies that shift the focus from selling to serving your audience. A valuable read for anyone in publishing who wants to promote authentically while staying true to their voice.

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Marketing your books as an indie author is hard and most of us dread it. The idea of constantly promoting our work can feel overwhelming, exhausting, or make us feel like we're the cliché of a sleazy salesperson. But marketing doesn’t have to be about hard sales and endless self-promotion! In fac...

13/05/2025

🎨 AI in book cover design? It’s not just a trend—it’s reshaping how we think about visual storytelling.

Eleanor Hecks of Designerly Magazine breaks down the pros, cons, and creative possibilities of using AI tools in the design process. Whether you're curious, cautious, or already experimenting, this is a thoughtful read for indie publishers navigating the future of book design.👇

A debate rages in literary circles about using artificial intelligence (AI) art in cover design. Is it ethical? How much AI should you use? Some people call it stealing from artists whose work trained AI models. Others feel you have to come up with creative and specific prompts to develop the art, a...

07/05/2025

🎨 Gen Z readers notice design first—and their preferences are reshaping how book covers are created.

In this thoughtful piece, Eleanor Hecks of Designerly Magazine highlights the trends that resonate with younger audiences: bold fonts, minimalist layouts, nostalgic tones, and authentic visuals.

Independent publishers looking to reach Gen Z will find this a useful read. Design isn’t just packaging—it’s your first impression.

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Your book cover is what makes a strong first impression on potential readers. Grabbing the attention of Generation Z presents some unique challenges. Although individual Gen Zers, aka Zoomers, have some similarities with one another, they are a diverse group with multiple interests and unique person...

01/05/2025

📚 Publishing a book is just the beginning—keeping it in readers’ hands (and hearts) takes strategy and staying power.

Athena Dean Holtz of Redemption Press shares smart, experience-backed insights on how indie publishers can support long-term book sales and build lasting reader relationships.

A practical read for anyone in the publishing game.
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I remember the first time I held my book in my hands—the culmination of years of lessons, prayers, and perseverance. But once the initial excitement settled, I faced the inevitable question every author encounters: Now what? The reality is, books don’t sell themselves. And in today’s fast-pace...

29/04/2025

📘 For many entrepreneurs, a book is more than a publishing project—it's a powerful business tool.

In this well-argued piece, Lucy McCarraher of Rethink Press outlines why business owners should consider writing a book to establish authority, attract clients, and grow their brand.

For independent publishers, this presents a valuable opportunity to collaborate with authors who see books not just as products, but as strategic assets.

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As an expert or entrepreneur, coach or consultant, speaker or leader, you are standing on a gold mine of knowledge and experience. Hidden underground is the precious substance that shines out in your work with clients; the mighty foundation you've built your business on; the deep source of energy th...

28/04/2025

🌍 Picture books have the unique ability to cross borders and connect cultures.

In this thoughtful piece, Lindsay Jones of Drop Cap explores how children's stories resonate across languages and societies, and why independent publishers are well-positioned to bring diverse voices to a global audience. She also highlights the opportunities and challenges of expanding internationally without losing the heart of a story.

For independent publishers aiming to grow their reach, this is essential reading. 👇

Licensing a children's picture book internationally can open new paths for independent authors and illustrators. Around the world, publishers are seeking titles that connect across cultures, offer emotional depth, and showcase high-quality storytelling and illustration. Let’s take a closer look at...

25/04/2025

If you’re writing characters, cultures, or experiences outside your own lived story, it’s okay to pause and ask: Am I getting this right?

That’s where sensitivity readers come in — not as censors, but as collaborators who help you write with more honesty, accuracy, and care. Whether you're tackling tough topics or exploring identities unfamiliar to you, this guide will help you figure out when to bring in a reader, how to find the right one, and what to expect from the process. 🧠

A thoughtful and practical breakdown by Beatrice Lebrun of StoryForge.

🔗https://theindependentpublishingmagazine.com/how-to-find-a-sensitivity-reader/

The Question That Keeps Coming Up Since I write emotionally intense fiction that touches on topics like mental illness, queerness, obsession, and trauma, and because I'm actively involved in communities like StoryForge, people often come to me with questions about sensitivity readers. They want to k...

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Our Story

This online magazine, launched in late 2007 provides essential information, resources and reviews of author solutions services. In the beginning our exclusive focus was self-publishing and POD (Print-on-demand) technology. However, over the past two years, with the increasing and rapid changes in the publishing industry, The Independent Publishing Magazine has focused more often on self-publishing and author solutions services within the book and publishing industry. Slowly but surely the stigmas and limitations of self-publishing are becoming less of a challenge to the savvy independent author and this path to publishing has grown far more viable if the author is equipped with a basic but sound knowledge of book formatting, cover design, author and book-branding, and marketing and promotion know-how. While the core focus of The Independent Publishing Magazine will always demonstrate an objective view on global publishing from the perspective of authors looking at publishing their books outside of mainstream channels. TIPM review all paid-publishing services offered by author solutions services, printers, and more recently, paid-publishing services from large publishing houses like Thomas Nelson and Harlequin. TIPM provides articles on the changing word of publishing, with a particular focus on digital publishing and the latest innovations and models of business operating in the industry. The magazine is intended for authors and publishers alike.