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Publishing Map

The Definitive Publishing Map

How a book gets from your head to a reader's hands. Every path, every stage, what it costs, and how long it takes.

Updated 24 September 2026

Select Traditional trade: £0 / $0 (they pay); 2–4 years after signing, plus querying Traditional trade Select Independent / small press: £0 / $0 (they pay); 1–2 years Independent / small press Select Self-publishing: ~$0 to $8,000+ (you pay); 3–8 months Self-publishing Select Hybrid: Thousands to tens of thousands; 6–12 months (~9 typical) Hybrid Select Specialised / institutional: Usually £0 / $0; 1–2 years+ Specialised / institutional

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Common publishing questions

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Five routes, one decision Self-publishing vs traditional publishing Twelve stages, five phases Steps to publish a book Cost and time, before quotes How much does it cost to publish a book Before you sign or pay Is this publisher a scam Publish before the finished book Should you serialize your book

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