What is the standard publishing package?
The standard publishing package, which starts at $3,000, includes proofreading, design, and production management.
What about marketing and publicity?
Marketing and publicity are not part of our standard publishing package. Depending upon staffing availability, however, we can provide marketing and publicity services.
How do you determine fees?
We break fees down into three categories: production management, design, and editing.
- Production management includes coordinating between you and the team working on your book, publishing the book, and entering information on databases for distribution. It also includes fees we pay on your behalf for ISBNs, barcodes, and print-on-demand set-up costs (read more about print-on-demand below).
- Design fees are based on the length of the book, how many images and graphics you plan to include, any unusual design elements, and cover design.
- Editing fees are based on word count. We charge 1 cent per word for proofreading, 2 cents per word for copyediting, and 3 cents per word for developmental editing.
Is there a contract?
Yes, we will send you a contract that outlines fees, schedule, timeline, and royalties.
Who holds copyright?
You do!
What happens after I sign a contract and send you a manuscript?
We will start editing and designing your book, sending you edits, cover mock-ups, and typeset drafts to review and approve along the way.
Who works on these books?
The same team that produces Belt Publishing titles!
What is the turnaround time?
We aim to complete projects within three months. If we have too many projects scheduled to commit to this time frame, we will give you a modified turnaround time before you sign a contract.
How many books do you do?
Parafine is a boutique press. We have a small staff, and we provide individualized services. We are only able to handle about 20 titles per year.
Do you turn down any projects?
Only if we feel we cannot do an excellent job with the manuscript, due to time constraints, unusual design elements, or other factors.
Does the book have to be non-fiction, or about the Rust Belt?
No.
Do I have a say in the cover?
Absolutely! Our goal is to design a cover with your input, that you love.
Can you buy Parafine titles on Amazon?
Yes.
Can independent bookstores order Parafine titles?
Yes.
Is printing included in your fees?
No.
How much will it cost to print books?
That depends on many factors, mainly length. For a 45,000-word paperback without any images, estimate about $4 per copy.
How much will I receive per copy sold?
It depends on where the customer buys it. If you sell the book directly to a customer through our website, the net revenue will be the retail price minus print and shipping costs. If you sell the book via Amazon or any other seller that uses IngramSpark (the POD company we use), the net revenue will be the retail price minus a required 55% wholesale discount as well as the print costs. Net revenue is divided between the author (80%) and Parafine (20%).
Do I have to use print-on-demand (POD)?
Yes—in order to have your book listed on Amazon and databases that booksellers use, you must have print-on-demand copies available.
Can I also use a traditional printer?
Yes—we will serve as the liaison with a traditional printer if you choose this option as well.
What other decisions are involved?
You get to determine the price of the book (retail price), the size of the book (trim size), the format (paperback or hardback), the cover stock (matte or glossy), and the color of the pages (white or cream). Your production manager will be happy to consult with you on each of these decisions.
How do I get started?
Just fill out the contact form, and we’ll get back to you with a detailed estimate.