I had never written a book proposal, but I had a manuscript in hand. Justin walked me smoothly through the process from selecting a publisher, to writing a proposal, and helping me secure a contract. My book was published at the beginning of January! 


Rev. Dr. Rosario Picardo
Pastor and Author
Ginghamsburg Church
With the growing portfolio of work that I have helped bring to market I have the necessary knowledge and experience to guide you in your journey to find, contact, and impress your future publisher. Whether you are an aspiring writer or accomplished author my expertise and network will help you land a publisher and get your book on shelves. I primarily focus on Christian publishing, and though I have the ability to help writers at most experience levels, my passion is helping new writers become published authors. To find out more about how I can help you realize your publishing dream, please contact me. 

Locating a Publisher

It is often difficult for writers to find the right publisher. Some publishers only take writers from a particular religious tradition while others focus on a particular genre. It can be confusing trying to navigate the publishing world. How can you know if a publisher is reputable? Which publishers offer marketing? Will your favorite publisher give you a shot? What sort of material is most likely to impress a given publisher?

I have done the research and I have a list of dozens of publishers with information about their reputations, marketing capabilities and focus, willingness to take on new writers, and each publisher's niche. Also, as I have talked to writers, editors, marketers, and other professionals in the publishing business I have gleaned insight about less tangible factors like which publishers are under staffed, who is pleasant or difficult to work with, and how quickly various publishing companies are able to get your material in the hands of readers.

Crafting a Competitive Proposal

Once you have found a publisher you have to impress them. This means that you have to be able to sell your idea, your writing ability, your marketability, and your expertise. In short, you have to be able to set yourself apart from all the other potential authors trying to get themselves recognized by the very same publishers you want to notice your work. 


I know the questions to ask, what publishers are looking for, and how to communicate your idea in a way that attracts the right kind of interest. Every publisher has its own demands regarding the specific format of a book proposal, but there are certain hallmarks of an excellent proposal that are more likely to catch your future publisher's eye. I will be able to help you navigate the particulars of a given publisher while guiding you through the basics that will help you stand out. I will even write your proposal for you if you prefer. 

Manuscript Evaluation

Having me read and evaluate your manuscript, or detailed outline, will help me better help you craft your proposal, the book itself, and the marketing strategy. With some publishers I can intervene on your behalf to tell them who I believe your audience is as well as the strengths of your work. I have been fortunate to evaluate books for a publisher on a freelance basis, which gives me insight into the specific marks that publishers want their writers to meet. 

If you are unsure if your work is ready for publication, or if you feel good about it, but do not know where to go next, then let me evaluate it for you and give you a strategy to reach the people who need to read your work.

Networking

In the publishing game, you need to know people, or at least know people who know people. It is important to be aware of who might be able to help you get your book in as many hands as possible. This means knowing where you can meet with other writers, introduce yourself to the staff of your favorite publishing company, and where you can get free publicity for your book.

I have taken the time to collect hundreds of contacts ranging from college and seminary professors to thought leaders and book review outlets. I will use those, and do new research if necessary, to help you connect with the people who can help your book not only get published, but be a success.