Which Publishing Path is Right for You?

One of the first big questions that new authors face is: how do I actually publish my book?

There are four main routes to publishing: traditional publishing, hybrid publishing, vanity publishing and self-publishing. Each has its own benefits, challenges and realities.

If you’ve been wondering which path to take, here’s a summary of how they compare.

Traditional Publishing

What is it?

This is what many people still picture when they think about “becoming an author.” You secure an agent who then pitches your manuscript to publishing houses. If you get signed, the publisher covers the costs of editing, design, printing and distribution.

Pros:

• No upfront costs – the publisher invests in your book
• Professional teams handle editing, cover design, print and marketing
• Bookshop and library distribution are much easier with a recognised publisher

Cons:

• It’s extremely competitive, and rejection is the norm
• You can sacrifice some creative control. It’s common for the publisher to make the final calls on edits, covers, and even titles
• Royalties are low
• It’s slow – the process from manuscript to bookstore can take years

Hybrid Publishing

What is it?

Hybrid publishing sits somewhere in the middle between traditional and self-publishing. You invest money upfront, and in return the publisher provides professional services such as editing, cover design and distribution. A true hybrid is meant to be a partnership: you share both the costs and, to some extent, the rewards.

Pros:

• Professional support without having to manage everything alone
• Wider distribution options than self-publishing by yourself
• More creative control than traditional publishing, but still with guidance

Cons:

• It can be expensive, as you’re paying for professional services
• Not all hybrid publishers are equal in quality or transparency
• Some hybrids don’t truly share the risk and they make their profit from your fees regardless of sales
• You may still give up some rights while footing the bill

Vanity Publishing

What is it?

Vanity publishing is often confused with hybrid publishing, but it’s very different. Vanity presses charge high fees to publish your book, but their business model is based on selling packages to authors, not on helping your book to succeed. Services like editing and design may be low quality, and distribution is often minimal.

A reputable hybrid publisher will be selective, working with manuscripts they believe have commercial potential. A vanity publisher, by contrast, will publish almost anything as long as the author pays.

Pros:

• Quick and straightforward. You hand over money and they handle the rest
• You’ll have a printed book in your hands fast

Cons:

• Extremely expensive, often running into thousands of pounds
• Limited or superficial distribution support (listing a book online is not the same as marketing it)
• Quality can be poor, leaving books looking unprofessional
• Many vanity publishers exploit new authors’ enthusiasm, leading to disappointment

Self-Publishing

What is it?

Self-publishing means you take control and you manage the publishing process yourself. You can do this either by learning each step, or by hiring trusted professionals to help. Platforms like Amazon KDP and Ingram Spark make it easier than ever to publish globally.

Pros:

• Full creative control, meaning your book stays your vision
• Faster timelines. Once your manuscript is ready, your book can be live in weeks
• Higher royalties (typically 40–70%)
• You own your rights and keep control long term

Cons:

• You’re responsible for everything, from editing to design
• If you need a lot of support, then there can be a lot of upfront costs
• Without guidance, the process can feel overwhelming

Why Self-Publishing is a Great Choice for New Authors

More and more people are moving away from traditional publishing and actually choosing to self-publish, and some do it very successfully. Readers rarely care who the publisher is. They care about whether the story is good.

Self-publishing gives you speed, control and flexibility. You don’t need to wait years for a publisher to “pick” you. You don’t have to give up rights to your own work. And you have the freedom to build your author career on your terms.

Yes, it can feel overwhelming to manage the process alone. But that’s where support, like the sort that Lindie offers, can come in.

How Lindie Can Help

At Lindie, we specialise in supporting authors through every step of the self-publishing journey. From ISBNs and formatting to covers and distribution, we’re here to demystify the process, cut through the overwhelm, and make sure your book looks every bit as professional as those from the big publishing houses.

With Lindie, you’re not just publishing a book. You’re publishing it with confidence.

Ready to take control of your publishing journey? Download the Lindie Self-Publishing Guide today and get started.