TLC FAQ
I’m writing a book. What’s next?
Great question! The answer can be slightly different for each client. Fill out our Project Information Form and we’ll set up a time to chat. This will allow us to set up a plan tailored to your needs. In general, each book needs editing, cover design, interior design, proofreading, possibly an index, and printing. Ebook conversion is common as well. We can provide all of these services or just a few, working with people you already have in place.
Do you read manuscripts before accepting them?
To provide the best service to our clients, each project is reviewed by the TLC staff. This ensures the best possible relationship and end result. We select our projects carefully and for any that aren’t a good fit, we will recommend talented colleagues to assist in bringing them to fruition.
Do I have to use one of your editors or can I use my own?
TLC has wonderful editors at your service, but you are not required to use them. If you have a relationship with a professional book editor already, they should by all means be part of your publishing team. We do not recommend skipping editing or proofreading altogether.
How should I format my manuscript?
Most authors use Word, but we can accept files from other programs, such as Scrivener or Pages if you save them to a Word file before sending. Please be consistent when setting up and using your style sheets and only keep the style sheets that are used in your file. There is no need to make your manuscript look like a book, as we will be importing your .doc file into InDesign. Making your book readable and look inviting is our job. ;)
How long might it take to produce my book?
As you can imagine, this depends on many factors, so each project has its own timeline. If you need editorial, design, printing, and ebook conversion, it can take 3–4 months to produce. Custom illustrations and photography, ghostwriting, or overseas printing can add several months to that. Keep in mind that we’re often booked up to 3 months in advance. Click here to download our typical production timeline.
I’ve already published the first book in my series, but it wasn’t designed well. Is it too late for the series?
It’s not too late, but let’s redesign the series right away. Typically our authors will begin the new look with the next new book in the series and then redesign previously-published volumes when inventory gets low. Upgrading your image can really boost sales!
When should I contact you?
Is it okay if I haven’t finished writing yet?
You may contact us at any time, but earlier is often better because we can help you plan and set up your manuscript file nicely. It’s never too early and almost never too late to chat.
Do you become my publisher?
We are a service provider and do not become your publisher. Whether you’re a representative from a publishing company or an independent author, we’re simply here to provide the guidance and services you need to produce a great-quality book, while you retain copyright and control of your book.
How much will this cost?
One million dollars! Just kidding. Because each book or client has different needs, each project is a custom bid.
We want to talk with you about your goals, determine your needs, and take a look at your manuscript before determining the cost of producing your book. Our cover design fee is a flat rate of $2,800. Picture book design starts at $3,600. You won’t find cookie-cutter books at TLC!
What if I have an idea for my cover?
Tell us! Scribble it out. Take a stab at it. We are not snobby artists! We want to know what you have in mind — and we want you to know what we have in mind. When you hire us to design your book’s cover, you’ll receive 3–5 front cover designs based both on your ideas and our own. We’ll always give you our professional opinion, but you have final say. That’s the beauty of self-publishing!
Help! I need illustrations for my book.
While we are (alas) not illustrators, we have worked with many and are more than happy to help you find the best illustrator for your book.
Do you take over my copyright?
No. You always retain copyright of your book. When our job is complete, you will own the copyright to our design as well. We keep files for archive and will send them to you upon request.
Do you design or convert ebooks?
We do both and our converted ebooks look great! We take care to make them look as close to the printed version as possible to continue the brand begun in print.
Will you design ANY book?
Just like doctors, designers have specialties. While we design books of many genres for adults, youth, and children, a few that are not in our wheelhouse include erotica, self-help, and textbooks.
I have more questions!
Please fill out our contact form and we’ll set up a free consultation phone or Zoom call.
Do I have to use all of your services or can I pick and choose?
We do not require you to hire us for everything, as our services are a la carte. Hiring us for at least one design service does offer you the opportunity to hire us for editorial and/or printing if you like. Non-design services are not offered without at least one design service.
What if I already have a finished cover?
If you have a professional cover but are in need of interior design, we’d still love to work with you. Just send us an inquiry to introduce yourself and your book. We’ll email to request your manuscript in Word and a JPG or PDF of the front cover so we can put together an estimate. If you’re not sure if your cover is high enough quality, we’re happy to analyze it at no cost.
Do you have any package deals?
Because we focus on customizing each project, we don’t offer standard package pricing. However, be sure to check our home page to sign up for our newsletter to learn about occasional design specials.
Do I need to find my own printer?
No, but you may. Printing can be very daunting, presenting choices of methods, papers, cover treatments, trim sizes, binding styles, and sifting through confusing RFQs. Because of this, we’re happy to take care of printing for you. If you enjoy the printing process and want to use the printer of your choice, we’re happy to produce files to their specs.
Do you offer print-on-demand services?
We are not printers or publishers, so we do not provide print-on-demand (POD). If you would like to use this printing model, we’re happy to provide files set up for your chosen printer (often IngramSpark or Amazon’s KDP). If you need assistance in setting up your account, title, or uploading files, just ask!
How many books do I have to print?
None. Really! We don’t require you to print any through TLC. We will, however guide you in determining the best way to print and a quantity that works for your needs.
What is an ISBN and how do I get one?
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number, and is a unique identifier for each edition and binding of a book or title. If your book will be sold in any retail fashion, it will need an ISBN. If you will publish a softcover, hardcover, and ebook, you will need three separate ISBNs, assigning a different one to each binding. Bar codes use the ISBN, but are different products. Authors, get your number(s) here.
What is an LCCN and how do I get one?
Library of Congress Control Numbers are necessary if you want your book to be available in libraries. Self-publishers sign up here to open a free account and apply for their number prior to printing the book. The number belongs on the book’s copyright page.
I have more questions!
Please fill out our Product Information Form and we’ll email to set up your free consultation phone or Zoom call.