Guides for authors
Publishing, explained.
Plain-English answers to the questions authors ask most: what publishing costs, how ISBNs work, which platforms to use and how to choose a publisher.
How much does it cost to publish a book in the UK?What it really costs to publish a book in the UK in 2026: editing, cover design, ISBNs, printing and distribution, with typical prices and ways to save.
KDP vs IngramSpark: which should UK authors use?KDP vs IngramSpark for UK authors: royalties, bookshop and library reach, Expanded Distribution, and why most professional books use both platforms.
Who owns the ISBN when you publish a book?Who owns an ISBN, what it costs in the UK, how many you need, and why owning the ISBN is not the same as owning your book. A plain-English guide.
What does publisher of record mean?Publisher of record explained: who it is, what they do, how it differs from owning copyright, and the four questions to ask any publishing service.
Self-publishing, assisted, vanity and traditional publishing: what is the difference?Traditional, self-publishing, assisted and vanity publishing compared for UK authors, plus five checks to spot a good publishing service.