Best Book Publishing Packages for Writers
- Micah Windle
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- Sep 3
- 4 min read
You're a writer at heart, and you are now finally at the point where you feel confident about sharing your manuscript with the world. So here's the big question: How do you get the book from your desk out to the rest of the world?!??! You've probably heard a bunch of recommendations about using KDP or Ingram-Spark, or maybe getting your book to Barnes & Noble--Navigating the maze that we call self-publishing can feel like trying to find that proverbial needle in the haystack. Don't worry though; let's walk through the best book publishing options that fit your needs.
Exploring Publishing Package Options
Alright, so when it comes to publishing, there are a LOT of options to choose from. From trad publishing to self-publishing to everything in the middle, the choices can through you for a loop. An easy way to simplify thing though is to find a publishing package option. These kind of packages bundle services like editing, design, marketing, and distribution into one encompassing bundle, usually with a discount, too!
Of course, I'll base my thoughts around the packages that we offer here at Thine Books, based off what we notice our customers look for most often:
Basic or Budget Packages: Usually these include formatting and cover design. These are great if you want to keep costs low and you're willing to do most of the legwork yourself.
Standard Packages: These usually add things like professional proofreading, marketing help, or things like that. These are perfect if you want a polished product without breaking the bank.
Premium Packages: These are usually some version of a full service deal; with proofreading, design, marketing, distribution, and so on. This is ideal if you just want to hand of most of the work of publishing, and instead focus on writing your next book.
Obviously, each package has its perks and pitfalls. For example, a basic package might save you money right now, but can end up in headache for you or losing sales for a lack of atunement to your audience. On the other hand, premium packages can feel like a splurge but often pay off with better visibility and sales in the end. As the saying goes, "You get what you pay for."

What is a good price for a 200-page book?
Alright, we all know budget matters, so let's talk about it. Pricing varies so widely in this market, and you're likely to find that the service provided is going to ride with the price. I'll try to line up some baseline expectations for you though.
Basic Packages might start around $500 to $1,000. This usually covers formatting and a simple cover design.
Standard packages range from $1,000 to $3,000. You get professional cover design, some marketing support, interior formatting, and maybe some proofreading.
Premium packages can go from $3,000 up to $7,000 or even more. These include everything from design, formatting, editing to distribution and sometimes even book launch assistance.
Again, keep in mind that cheaper doesn't mean better. A $500 package might leave you with a book that screams homemade, while a $7,000 package could give you a huge boost with a polished product that stands out on shelves next to bestsellers.
Here's a tip: always ask for a breakdown of what's included. Some packages might charge extra for things like ISBNs, copyright registration, or marketing campaigns. Transparency can seem overwhelming, but it is your friend.

How to Choose the Right Package for You
Choosing the package that fits your needs will be something like picking the right outfit for a date--you want comfort, style, and a good fit for your needs.
So ask yourself:
What's my budget? Be realistic. Don't stretch yourself too thin, but don't skimp on essentials.
What services do I need? If you're confident in your editing skills, maybe you don't need that service.
How much control am I willing or have time for? Some vendors give you a lot more latitude, while others handle everything for you.
What are my goals? Are you aiming for bestseller standards or do you just want to share your story with friends and family?
Also, consider the reputation of the publisher/service provider. Look for reviews, testimonials, and examples of their work. A good publisher will be transparent, communicative, and ready to support your goals and aspirations with your book. (tip: good providers will also make sure that you're getting the package you need, rather than pushing higher packages simply for their own bottom line)
If you want to explore some options, you can start with our publishing packages that offer a range of services tailored for the independent author.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Publishing Package
Once you've picked a package that fits your needs, make the most of it. Here's a couple things to keep in mind:
Communicate clearly: Be upfront about your expectations and deadlines.
Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to clarify what’s included and what’s not.
Stay involved: Even if you choose a full-service package, stay engaged in the process.
Use the marketing tools: Many packages include marketing support—use it to boost your book’s visibility.
Build your community: Connect with beta readers, reviewers, and fellow authors to get feedback and support.
Remember that this part of the process is a partnership. You and your provider will now be getting this book to succeed together; so the more effort you put into the partnership, the more you will get out of it!
Your Next Step in the Publishing Journey
Publishing your book can look like a nightmare on this side of it, but it really can be a fulfilling adventure; publication is the bridge from your vision to the reader's imagination. Choosing the right package is your first big step in that adventure, and there is a perfect fit waiting for you.
Ready to explore your options? Dive into our options here at Thine Books, or join our budding community of authors and readers to find advice on the right provider for you. Your book deserves to shine, and with the right steps it will!


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