HOW WE PUBLISH BOOKS
Every book we publish moves through a deliberate, professional system. Whether through Huntsville Independent Press, Obol House Publishing Company, Wisteria Bloom Editions, or Sable Court Books, the pathway is structured and clear from the beginning.
STEP 1
Discovery Phase
Everything starts with a conversation.
We review your manuscript, your goals, your timeline, and your expectations. We talk honestly about audience potential and what it will take to move the book forward.
This is where we determine whether we’re a good fit for each other (and advise you even if we aren't).
STEP 2
Publishing Model Selection
We utilize three publishing models:
Traditional Publishing
We invest in the book and publish it under a royalty agreement. This path is selective and based on editorial and market criteria.
Hybrid Publishing
The author funds production while we handle professional editing, design, distribution, and release. This model gives our authors forward movement without compromising quality.
Provenance Publishing
A curated, proprietary, and long-term model designed for authors building legacy projects. This structure combines press oversight with strategic positioning and permanence.
Each model defines how the book is funded, how royalties work, and what each party is responsible for.
STEP 3
Imprint Placement
Once the model is established, we determine which imprint best represents the book in the marketplace.
Huntsville Independent Press
Our flagship traditional-only imprint focused on lasting literature and curated excellence.
Obol House Publishing Company
For ambitious, serious projects that require full professional execution.
Wisteria Bloom Editions
Our children’s imprint, built around meaningful storytelling and thoughtful design.
Sable Court Books
Our Provenance imprint, catering specifically to entrepreneurial authors operating under our proprietary Provenance Publishing Model. Highly selective with limited availability.
STEP 4
Contract & Onboarding
We formalize the agreement and outline:
• Rights
• Royalty structure
• Scope of work
• Timeline
Once signed, we schedule an onboarding session and map the production calendar.
STEP 5
Editorial Development
Your manuscript goes through structured refinement:
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Developmental editing for structure and clarity.
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Line editing for flow and voice.
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Copyediting for technical accuracy.
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Final proofing before production.
We do not rush this stage. Craft comes first.
STEP 6
Cover & Production
We design for the real marketplace.
This includes professional cover design, back cover copy, interior layout, and full print-ready files. Children’s titles include illustration coordination and layout planning.
Everything is proofed before release.
STEP 7
Metadata & Market Strategy
Before the book goes live, we build the infrastructure around it:
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ISBN registration
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Retail categorization
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Pricing strategy
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Preorder timing
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Launch planning
This stage determines discoverability and retail performance.
STEP 8
Preorder & Release
We activate distribution channels, open preorders, and coordinate the launch window. Retail platforms, bookstores, and direct channels are aligned before public release.
STEP 9
Ongoing Support
Publishing does not end at launch.
Authors receive continued sales reporting, royalty payments according to agreement, and guidance for future projects. Your book remains part of our active catalog.
- Available Online
This is the first step in your journey with HIP. We'll discuss your project via phone or in person!