Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started as an Author

  • You’re not alone! Most authors feel this way. The first step is to clarify your publishing goals — whether you want wide distribution, a professional imprint, or to self-publish with guidance. At Stacks Publishing, we start with a free 30-minute discovery call to help you map your best path forward.

  • Not necessarily. Many authors come to us mid-way through their manuscript for developmental editing, coaching, or Substack audience-building. Getting support early can actually save time and prevent expensive mistakes later.

  • Yes — we work with authors from the earliest concept stage through to full publication and marketing. We’ll help you refine your idea, shape your structure, and move toward a professional finished manuscript. See our full list of publishing and book marketing services.

Choosing the Right Publishing Path

  • Traditional publishing means submitting to a publisher who covers costs but retains control and royalties. Self-publishing gives you full control but all the responsibility. Hybrid publishing, like Stacks Publishing, sits in the middle — you invest in production, we provide professional expertise and distribution under our imprint, and you keep your rights and profits. Take a look at our comparison of the various methods of publishing.

  • Hybrid publishing is ideal if you want the professionalism of traditional publishing but the flexibility and control of self-publishing. We can help you decide which model fits your goals during a free 30-minute discovery call.

  • That’s where our À La Carte Services come in — you can choose exactly what you need, from editing and formatting to Substack setup or marketing strategy.

Author Mindset, Motivation and Confidence

  • Completely. Writing and publishing a book is a huge achievement, and feeling unsure at times is part of the process. That’s why our coaching and publishing support are designed to break the journey into manageable steps. You can start with a free 30-minute discovery call to get some initial advice to help things feel less overwhelming.

  • Most authors aren’t — and that’s okay. We’ll teach you marketing that feels authentic and aligned with your personality, not pushy or “salesy.” See our full list of publishing and book marketing services.

  • Having structure and accountability helps immensely. We’ll set clear milestones so you can see progress and celebrate wins along the way. Our book coaching services are a great way to keep accountable and on track.

Working with Stacks Publishing

  • Collaborative, transparent, and personal. You’ll work directly with Fleur Hull and our small team of trusted professionals. We keep communication clear, timelines realistic, and every detail aligned with your vision.

    You can read what other authors are saying about the Stacks Publishing service on our Home Page.

  • We work with authors whose goals, audience, and expectations align with what we offer. We take the time to understand your book and ensure we can genuinely help before committing to a project.

  • We work with both fiction and nonfiction writers — from debut authors to experienced professionals — who want to publish with strategy, integrity, and long-term growth in mind.

Substack for Authors

  • Substack is a fast-growing publishing platform where you can share your writing, build your email list, and connect directly with readers — without relying on social media algorithms. It’s the smartest way to grow your audience and build a readership that’s ready to buy your book when you launch.

    We’ve built The Substack Bookstore ecosystem to be a trusted hub for indie authors, with 2.9k+ subscribers and a distribution network of more than 25k readers and other authors, ready to support your work.

  • Yes! Our Substack Kickstart package includes everything — from your bio, About page, and visuals to custom-written welcome emails that turn casual readers into loyal subscribers.

  • Authors in our Substack Bookstore ecosystem have grown large audiences, launched paid newsletters, and even hit Amazon Category Bestseller rankings through the visibility and community they’ve built. Here are the bestsellers and their stories.

    Some of the results are outlined in The Substack Bookstore’s About page.

Building Your Author Platform

  • Your platform is the network of readers, subscribers, and supporters who know, like, and trust you. It’s what helps your book sell — and keeps readers coming back for more. Substack is a strong foundation, but we’ll also help you use email marketing, book promotions, and collaborations to grow your reach.

  • No. A small, engaged audience is far more valuable than a large, passive one. We help authors focus on meaningful connection, not just numbers.

  • It depends on your consistency and content, but with the right Substack strategy, most authors see steady growth — and sales — within a few months.

Book Marketing and Visibility

  • It starts with strategic keywords and categories — we research and select ones that maximise discoverability. From there, we help with metadata, A+ Content, and launch-day campaigns that boost visibility fast.

  • It’s a coordinated strategy that uses pricing, timing, and category selection to push your book into a top position on Amazon’s charts — often achievable with only modest sales when targeted correctly.

    Here are some of our successful bestselling author stories.

  • Yes — our Press Release Writing & Distribution service gets your story in front of journalists, book reviewers, and media outlets, helping you build visibility and credibility.

Editing, Design and Professional Presentation

  • Most books go through three main stages of editing — structural, copy, and proof editing. Which one you need depends on where your manuscript is in the process:

    • Structural (or Developmental) Editing: This is the big-picture stage. Your editor looks at structure, pacing, tone, character development, and clarity of message. It’s about shaping the book, not fixing typos.

    • Copy Editing: Once the structure is sound, copy editing refines your sentences for style, grammar, and consistency. It ensures your voice shines while polishing every paragraph.

    • Proof Editing (or Proofreading): The final check before publication. This stage catches typos, punctuation errors, and small formatting inconsistencies that slipped through earlier rounds.

    If you’re unsure which level your book needs, we’ll assess your manuscript and guide you to the right service — so you’re not paying for more (or less) than you need.

  • Because no author can see every flaw in their own work. A professional editor improves structure, flow, and clarity, helping your book earn better reviews and build your reputation.

  • Our designers create both print and eBook layouts using Adobe (premium package) and Vellum (standard e-book and paperback packages) for readability and visual appeal. Every element — from typography to spacing — enhances your reader’s experience.

  • Absolutely. We work with experienced cover designers who specialise in genre-appropriate, market-ready covers that attract attention and drive sales.

Launching and Selling Your Book

  • Ideally, three to six months before launch — especially if you’re building an email list or setting up a Substack. We’ll help you create a tailored marketing strategy and calendar so you’re never scrambling.

  • Preparation, visibility, and reader connection. We combine pre-orders, ARC campaigns, and The Substack Bookstore’s author community to create launch momentum that lasts.

  • Yes! Many authors come to us after launch to revitalise their marketing or rebrand their book for new life and sales. One of our authors recently (September 2025) achieved a multiple-category, multiple-market Amazon bestseller ranking for his book that was launched 10 months earlier.

How do I get Reviews for my Book?

  • Beta Readers are your first audience — real readers who offer honest feedback before publication. The easiest way to find them is through Stacks Publishing’s Beta Reader Campaign, available via our Free Books First Substack, which connects authors with over 17,000 active readers. Simply subscribe to Free Books First, submit your book, and invite beta readers to provide constructive pre-publication feedback.

  • ARC readers read your book shortly before launch and often post early reviews on Amazon or Goodreads once your title goes live. Through Free Books First, you can run an ARC campaign to share your pre-release book with verified readers who enjoy discovering new authors. We also recommend building your own ARC team from your mailing list and Substack followers for consistent support across future releases.

  • For professional-quality reviews you can quote in marketing materials, consider our Editorial Reviews service, part of the Substack Bookstore network’s Editorial Reviews Substack. These reviews are written by experienced book lovers who provide detailed, thoughtful insights you can feature on your Amazon A+ content, website, or press materials. Each reviewer is vetted to ensure professionalism and credibility.

  • Always include a short, friendly reminder at the end of your book asking readers to leave an honest review. Follow up with your mailing list or Substack subscribers after launch to thank them and share an easy review link. Personal connection makes a big difference: readers who feel appreciated are more likely to share feedback that supports your ongoing success.

Coaching and Accountability

  • Coaching is collaborative — I guide you, hold you accountable, and help you build confidence to make decisions. Consulting is more directive. In our sessions, we combine both so you get clarity and action.

  • You can book one-off strategy sessions, four-week accountability check-ins, or 12-week programs that take you from idea to publication.

  • Our Accountability Coaching includes weekly check-ins and personal guidance to make sure you actually do the things that move your book forward — from writing to marketing tasks.

Next Steps with Stacks Publishing

  • The best way to begin is with a free 30-minute discovery call. We’ll talk through your goals, challenges, and options — whether that’s hybrid publishing, à la carte services, or coaching.

  • Depending on your project, we can usually begin within two to four weeks of booking. Some smaller à la carte services start even sooner.

  • No problem — start with one of our free resources, like the Ideal Reader Profile Worksheet or the Author Growth Substack, to begin building your foundation.