Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About Our Publishing Packages

Understanding Our Packages

What's the difference between The Seed, Shepherd, Apostle, and Legacy packages?

Our packages are designed for different stages of your publishing journey:

  • The Seed Package ($2,995): Perfect for authors with a completed manuscript who need essential production services—proofreading, interior design, template cover, ISBN, copyright, and print-on-demand setup. This is the foundation.
  • The Shepherd Package ($4,995 - Most Popular): Includes everything in Seed, plus comprehensive copyediting, full custom interior and cover design, expanded distribution, marketing materials, and a personal consultation with Dr. Fedd. Ideal for authors seeking hands-on guidance.
  • The Apostle Package ($7,995): Includes everything in Shepherd, plus developmental editing, premium design, eBook formatting, dedicated author website, social media campaign, and 50 author copies. Best for authors ready to build a lasting legacy.
  • The Legacy Package (Custom Pricing): All Apostle services plus a dedicated project manager, media training, strategic platform building, and multi-book options. Reserved for established ministries or authors with multi-volume visions.

Which package should I choose?

The best way to determine the right package is through a Discovery Call with our team. We'll assess your manuscript, goals, and ministry needs. Generally:

  • Choose Seed if your manuscript is complete and polished, and you need basic production services.
  • Choose Shepherd if you want professional guidance, custom design, and marketing support (our most popular choice).
  • Choose Apostle if you're building a ministry platform and need comprehensive support including website and marketing.
  • Choose Legacy if you're an established ministry or planning multiple books.

Can I upgrade my package later?

Yes! You can upgrade your package at any time during the production process. The investment you've already made will be credited toward the upgraded package. Contact your project coordinator to discuss upgrade options.

What if I only need specific services?

We offer à la carte services for authors who need specific help. You can purchase individual services like cover design, editing, interior layout, or marketing materials separately. However, packages offer better value and ensure all elements work together cohesively. View our price schedule for à la carte pricing.

Services Explained

What's the difference between proofreading, copyediting, and developmental editing?

  • Proofreading: Final check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and typos. This is surface-level editing.
  • Copyediting: More comprehensive than proofreading. Fixes grammar, style, consistency, clarity, and flow. Ensures the text reads smoothly.
  • Developmental Editing: Big-picture editing. Reviews structure, organization, theological soundness, pacing, and overall message delivery. Helps strengthen your manuscript's foundation.

The Seed Package includes proofreading. The Shepherd and Apostle packages include copyediting. The Apostle Package includes developmental editing for theological and structural review.

What does "custom cover design" mean versus "template cover"?

  • Template Cover (Seed Package): Professional pre-designed templates customized with your book title, author name, and imagery. Clean, professional, and cost-effective.
  • Custom Cover (Shepherd Package): Original cover design created specifically for your book. Includes 2 design concepts and consultation with a professional artist. Unique and tailored to your message.
  • Premium Custom Cover (Apostle Package): High-end custom design with 3 concepts, advanced photo manipulation, and a custom 3D book mockup for promotional use.

What is expanded distribution?

Expanded distribution makes your book available beyond Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It includes:

  • Distribution to libraries through IngramSpark
  • Availability to bookstores and wholesalers
  • Access to international markets
  • Academic and institutional buyers

The Seed Package includes basic print-on-demand (Amazon, B&N). The Shepherd Package and above include expanded distribution.

What's included in eBook formatting and distribution?

eBook formatting (Apostle Package and above) includes:

  • Professional formatting for all major eBook platforms (Kindle, Nook, Apple Books, Kobo, etc.)
  • Optimized layout for various screen sizes
  • Proper handling of images, tables, and special formatting
  • Distribution setup to all major eBook retailers

What is a Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN)?

The LCCN is a unique identifier assigned by the Library of Congress. It's required for libraries to catalog your book. Having an LCCN makes it easier for libraries to order and shelve your book, expanding your reach to institutional buyers. The Shepherd Package and above include LCCN registration.

Pricing & Payment

Are the prices final, or do they vary?

Package prices are starting prices and may vary based on:

  • Manuscript length (editing costs are often per word)
  • Complexity of design requirements
  • Number of images or graphics
  • Additional services requested

Final pricing is confirmed during your Discovery Call. We provide full transparency and a detailed quote before you commit.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We offer payment plans for all packages, typically 3-4 installments. A 50% deposit is required to begin work, with the balance due upon completion. Payment methods accepted include credit card, bank transfer, and check.

What are royalties, and how do they work?

Royalties are your share of book sales revenue. As a hybrid publisher, we operate on a partnership model:

  • You retain full copyright ownership of your work
  • Royalty rates vary by package and distribution channel
  • Royalties are typically paid quarterly
  • Standard royalty rates start at 15% for print books, with higher rates for higher-tier packages

Full royalty terms are detailed in your publishing agreement.

Are there any hidden fees?

No hidden fees. All costs are discussed upfront during your Discovery Call and detailed in your contract. The only additional costs would be:

  • Additional revision rounds beyond what's included in your package ($150/hour)
  • Rush services (25% additional fee, if available)
  • Additional author copies beyond the complimentary copies included

The Publishing Process

How long does the publishing process take?

Timeline varies by package and manuscript complexity:

  • Seed Package: 3-4 months from manuscript submission to published book
  • Shepherd Package: 4-6 months (includes more editing and custom design)
  • Apostle Package: 5-7 months (includes developmental editing and website setup)
  • Legacy Package: Timeline customized to your needs

Rush services are available for an additional fee, subject to availability.

What do I need to get started?

To begin the process:

  1. Schedule a Discovery Call with our team
  2. Submit your manuscript (preferably complete, though we can work with drafts)
  3. Complete your publishing agreement
  4. Make your initial deposit

We'll guide you through each step. Visit our Author Center for submission guidelines.

Do I maintain ownership of my book?

Absolutely! You retain full copyright ownership of your work. We are a hybrid publisher, not a traditional publisher. You own your book; we partner with you to produce and distribute it professionally. This is detailed in your publishing agreement.

What if I'm not happy with the editing or design?

All packages include revision rounds for both editing and design. The number of revisions varies by package. We work collaboratively with you to ensure you're satisfied. If you need additional revisions beyond what's included, they're available at $150/hour. Your satisfaction is our priority.

General Questions

Is this vanity publishing?

No. We are a hybrid publisher. Vanity publishers take your money and provide minimal services. We invest professional expertise, provide comprehensive services, offer distribution, and share in the success of your book through royalties. We evaluate manuscripts and work with authors we believe in.

Do you publish fiction?

While our primary focus is non-fiction, ministry-focused works, and devotionals, we will prayerfully consider Christian fiction that powerfully aligns with our core mission. If you have a fiction manuscript, please submit it through our Author Center, and we'll evaluate it based on its spiritual impact and alignment with our values.

Do you provide marketing support?

Marketing support varies by package:

  • Seed Package: Basic setup for sales channels
  • Shepherd Package: Professional book blurb and press release template
  • Apostle Package: Dedicated author website, social media launch campaign guidance, and strategy consultation
  • Legacy Package: Full strategic platform building, media training, and ongoing marketing consultation

How do I get author copies?

All packages include complimentary author copies:

  • Seed Package: 10 copies
  • Shepherd Package: 25 copies
  • Apostle Package: 50 copies
  • Legacy Package: Quantity customized

Additional copies can be purchased at author discount rates. You can order more at any time through your account.

Where will my book be sold?

Distribution varies by package:

  • Seed Package: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other print-on-demand channels
  • Shepherd Package and above: All of the above, plus libraries, bookstores, international markets, and eBook platforms (Apostle and above)

Your book will be available online through major retailers and, with expanded distribution, through physical bookstores and libraries.

Still Have Questions?

Schedule a complimentary Discovery Call to discuss your specific needs and find the perfect package for your message.

Schedule Discovery Call

Browse our Glossary for definitions of publishing terms.