The Publication Process

The first step is to submit your work to the acquisitions editor, through your literary agent if you have one, (although Fifth Seal Publishing is happy to work directly with perspective authors). To see our submission guidelines, please go to our submissions page.

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Every book needs an eye-catching cover, because (despite the old adage) readers absolutely judge books by their cover. The interior design will also be completed, with fonts, formatting, chapter headings, and layouts selected.

If your manuscript is accepted by the publisher you will receive a Publishing Agreement, which is a contract between you and the publisher covering copyright, licensing, editing, production, accounting, and royalties. Once you sign the contract, the publishing work begins in earnest!

Once all specifications and designs are completed, and once the copyediting and proofreading have honed the book into its final form, the book is ready for the printer.

The editing process is typically the longest and most tedious part of turning a manuscript into a book. Your book will go through several rounds of editing including copyediting (focused on spelling, punctuation, and grammar) and proofreading (focused on formatting, layout, and font selections).

With the publication date approaching and books ready for distribution, marketing efforts can go into full swing. We assist our authors in seeking marketing opportunities via radio and podcast appearances, book reviews in major publications, and social media engagement to get your book on the map, and drive sales.