What Is Hybrid Publishing

Glossary > Hybrid Publishing

Are there more types of hybrid publishing?

Yes, there are more types of hybrid publishers, and we can place them into three main categories: 

• Dedicated hybrid publishing companies: They specialize in hybrid publishing and can help authors get noticed through their connections with reviewers and booksellers. 
• Traditional publishing houses: There are traditional publishing houses that resemble hybrid publishing. They make one-off deals with individual authors for publishing rights.
• Agent-run publishing companies: This is a type of company started by an agent who wants to run their own business and follows a hybrid model. 

How to find a good hybrid publisher

There are some key factors you can consider to ensure you choose the right hybrid publisher: 

• Research: Look for hybrid publishers that specialize in your genre and have a good reputation. Check their websites and read reviews from other authors who have worked with them. 
• Transparency: A good hybrid publisher should be transparent about their services and pricing. 
• Services: Look for a publisher that offers a range of services, such as editing, design, distribution, and marketing. They should be able to produce a high-quality book that meets industry standards.
• Contract: Review the contract before signing and make sure it outlines all the terms and conditions, payment, royalties, and rights. 
• Communication: Choose a publisher that communicates transparently. You should be able to contact them easily and receive regular updates on the publishing process.
• Industry affiliations: Check if the publisher is affiliated with any industry associations, such as the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA). This can be a good indication of their commitment to professionalism and industry standards.
• ISBN: A trustworthy hybrid publisher uses its own ISBNs, which makes all their backlist visible. 
• Expertise: A good hybrid publisher has certain standards regarding books, unlike vanity publishing, which accepts any books for the right price. Check their catalog and see what titles you can find there and how their book covers look. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of working with a hybrid press?

Advantages

• Better exposure. A hybrid publisher can help authors get their books published faster. A good hybrid press has connections with reviewers, which helps with book advertising.
• Higher royalties. Even with the upfront costs, if the book turns out to be successful, authors can earn more royalties than with a traditional publisher.

Disadvantages

• Financial. If the book sells poorly, authors may lose their upfront money. 
• Doubt from reviewers. Although it may not be the case, some reviewers still don’t trust the quality of a book published through a hybrid publisher.