Frequently Asked Questions
Additional details are provided on the Prices and Services pages.
Q. Do you publish all books submitted to you?
A. Not every book is suitable for Light Messages but we are able to publish many books that have a smaller and more highly focused market segment because we keep our production costs to a minimum.
Q. How long does it take to publish a book?
A. If you provide a standard formatted manuscript and cover design it should take about a month.
Q. What does it cost?
A. Cost is less than you might think but it does depend on book size, number of pages, use of color, binding and so many factors that each book must be quoted separately. As a generic example, a typical 5-1/2"X8-1/2" book of 200 pages printed in black ink with a full-color paperback cover could retail for $15 to $20 with a production cost of about half that amount.
Q. How do I submit my manuscript?
A. There are two stages to submitting your manuscript. The first is to submit a text-only version for review. Once you have decided how you want to proceed with formatting and cover design, the second stage is to submit the final draft to us. The file(s) may be uploaded to our server or sent to us on CD, DVD, or thumb drive. Unless you have made arrangements for us to do the formatting, you must also send us a hardcopy printout of your manuscript the way you want it to appear.
Q. Do you edit manuscripts?
A. No, we do not, but depending on your subject we may be able to refer to you an independent editor.
Q. Do you format manuscripts?
A. Yes, for a fee if the manuscript is in a standard computer file.
Q. Do you create cover designs?
A. Yes. Cover designs are an additional service you may choose. We offer both template-based designs and custom designs.
Q. Do you provide an ISBN and barcode?
A. Yes. This is part of our basic service.
Q. Will you distribute and sell my book?
A. Yes. We charge an annual fee of $25 per title and share the royalties with you in a 50/50 partnership.
Q. How many books must I purchase?
A. You don't have to purchase any books. You or anyone else may purchase one or more books at a time.
Q. Do I get a quantity discount on books I order?
A. Yes. The price varies according to quantity purchased.
Q. Do you own the rights to my book if you publish it?
A. No, you maintain full rights to your book. You must grant us sale and distribution rights for two years during which time you will receive half the royalties from sales.
Additional details are provided on the Prices and Services pages.
