Ep 163: The Truth About Traditional Publishing Nobody Tells First-Time Authors (with Lori Gold)
In this episode, I'm once again joined by Lori Gold, HarperCollins author of Kiss, Marry, Kill (out April 7th) and Romantic Friction, for a candid conversation about what the traditional publishing process looks like today, how it's changed, and what first-time authors need to know before they sign anything.
We get into:
— Why production timelines at traditional publishers have compressed dramatically (we're talking under a year from editor to shelves) and what that means for editing quality
— Why more traditionally published authors are hiring developmental editors out of pocket before they even submit
— and what that means for you if you're self-publishing
— The honest truth about marketing support and why your advance size often predicts how much backing you'll get
— How to approach a bookstore—indie or chain—without torpedoing the relationship before it starts
— Why "there's no market for your book" doesn't mean there are no readers for your book
— What Lori does (and genuinely questions) every launch season when it comes to her own marketing hustle
Whether you're a first-time author trying to decide between self-publishing and traditional publishing, or you're mid-manuscript wondering what comes after the writing, this conversation will help you set realistic expectations and make smarter decisions.
Connect with Lori Gold
Website: lorigoldsteinauthor.com
Instagram: @lorigoldsteinbooks
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