The Publishing Times
All the News That’s Fit to Publish
Blog · Publishing Intelligence
In-depth articles, how-to guides, and industry analysis for self-published authors.
Book Advertising
Amazon Ads, formerly known as Amazon Marketing Services (AMS), provides a powerful platform for indie authors to promote their books directly to Amazon's vast c…
Email Marketing
In the crowded landscape of independent publishing, an author's email list remains their most valuable asset.
How-To Guides
In 2026, the digital library landscape represents an increasingly vital channel for indie authors to reach new readers and expand their income streams.
Marketing
Celebrity endorsements remain a potent force in book marketing, capable of catapulting titles to bestseller lists and generating significant buzz. Yet, their power is matched only by their potential for peril, demanding careful consideration from publishers and authors alike.
Industry Insight
The romanticised image of the solitary author often masks a harsher reality: a profession fraught with mental health challenges and immense creative pressure. It's time the publishing industry acknowledged this burden, not just celebrated the triumphs.
obituaries
Derek Johns, the publisher turned agent whose clients included Yann Martel, Sebastian Barry, Jan Morris and Andrew O'Hagan, died on July 24 at 78. He helped place Life of Pi with Canongate.
Opinion
Literary awards promise to elevate literature, yet too often they descend into predictable controversy, undermining their very purpose and alienating the very readers and authors they claim to serve.
Industry Analysis
Film adaptations have long been a boon for book sales, but their transformative power on poetry, often considered a niche, reveals a fascinating shift in reader engagement. We examine how cinematic magic can breathe new life into verse.
Industry Analysis
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally altering how readers find books. This isn't just about algorithms; it's a seismic shift demanding publishers and authors adapt or be left behind.
Self-Publishing
The landscape of Kindle Direct Publishing and Print-on-Demand has matured. Success now demands strategic thinking, quality content, and a professional approach, moving far beyond the 'upload and pray' era.
Industry Analysis
The publishing world once scoffed at print-on-demand. Now, with Amazon KDP leading the charge, it's clear the future of publishing is bespoke, efficient, and firmly in the hands of creators. This isn't just a shift; it's a seismic reordering.
Industry Analysis
The advent of AI has thrust copyright law into an existential crisis, forcing the publishing industry to defend the very notion of authorship against algorithms trained on stolen works. This is not merely a legal skirmish; it is a battle for the soul of creative endeavour.
Industry Analysis
Is the traditional publishing model finally bending to the realities of modern authorship? The rise of the partial manuscript deal suggests a shift, offering both promise and peril for writers navigating the complex path to publication.
Industry Analysis
The legal battle surrounding the U.S. Copyright Chief has become a protracted spectacle, revealing deep fissures in how America approaches intellectual property. This isn't merely bureaucratic wrangling; it's a fight for the soul of copyright itself, with profound implications for authors, innovators, and the very fabric of creative industries.
Industry Analysis
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic fantasy but a present reality reshaping how books are conceived, written, and brought to market. The publishing industry must confront this shift head-on.
Opinion
The publishing industry is awash with book awards, yet their proliferation threatens to dilute their very purpose. What was once a mark of distinction now risks becoming a marketing gimmick, leaving authors and readers alike adrift in a sea of gilded mediocrity.
Opinion
The sheer volume of book reviews today threatens to drown out genuine insight. We question if quantity has irrevocably eclipsed quality, leaving authors and readers adrift in a sea of uncurated opinion.
Industry Analysis
The publishing industry's obsession with book awards and a skewed review culture is stifling innovation and misleading readers. We argue for a return to genuine literary merit over manufactured accolades.
Author Marketing
The philosophical thriller is a fascinating subgenre that transcends mere entertainment, inviting readers to ponder complex ethical dilemmas, the nature of real…
How-To Guides
BookFunnel has become an indispensable tool for indie authors, particularly for its robust reader magnet delivery and group promotion capabilities.
weekend-read
Your essential guide to the week's top publishing insights. Dive into AI's impact, self-publishing trends, and more for indie authors.
weekly-digest
Your weekly dose of self-publishing insights from The Publishing Times. Stay ahead with top stories, trends, and editor's takes for August 1, 2026.
Industry Analysis
The rise of AI presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant threats to the publishing industry. We delve into the urgent need for robust AI regulation to protect authors, preserve intellectual property, and maintain the integrity of our literary landscape, without stifling innovation.
Opinion
The landscape of book awards is shifting, prompting us to question their true value to authors and readers. Are they still the ultimate arbiter of literary merit, or merely a marketing tool for a select few?
Industry Insight
In an oversaturated publishing landscape, book awards and literary criticism remain vital beacons, guiding readers and validating authors amidst the digital din. They are not relics, but essential filters.
Editorial
The literary canon is not a static monument, but a living, breathing entity, perpetually reshaped by new voices and critical lenses. We champion this reinterpretation, seeing it as essential for the vitality of publishing.
obituaries
Benjamin Alire Sáenz, the first Latino writer to win the PEN/Faulkner and the author of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, died in El Paso on July 28. He was 71.
kdp
Indie authors aiming for bookstore placement need to master ISBNs, barcodes, wholesale terms, and a compelling pitch. This guide outlines crucial steps for success in 2026.
kdp
In 2026, understanding book genres is crucial for indie authors to reach their target audience and navigate the self-publishing landscape effectively. Aligning your book with a specific genre optimizes discoverability and informs marketing strategies, ensuring your work finds its intended readership
kdp
This 2026 guide for indie authors outlines the essential steps for selling books on Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), covering everything from setting up your KDP account and understanding ISBNs to strategic pricing for optimal royalties and leveraging author copies for direct sales. Success
industry
A new approach challenges indie authors to integrate creative purpose ('Wisdom Wealth') with financial security ('Financial Wealth') for holistic success. The LIVING360 method helps authors break limiting beliefs and achieve both passion and profit.
industry
IndieReader highlights 'The Beginning of Everything,' a novel featuring Josh Green, whose extrasensory perception drives a mystery-thriller plot. This showcases how unique character abilities can create compelling narratives and strong genre appeal for indie authors.
industry
Dally Yarbrough's memoir, "A Night in Tucumcari: The Life of Dally O.," offers indie authors a masterclass in crafting transformative narratives. It highlights the power of focused storytelling and innovative symbolism, like the 'Cube,' to explore self-discovery and resilience.
industry
For indie authors, a professional author photo is a critical marketing tool that shapes first impressions, conveys professionalism, and builds trust with readers, much like a well-designed book cover. It's an essential visual representation for connecting with your audience and signaling the quality
book-awards
The latest Southern California Independent Bookstore Bestsellers list underscores the vital role of indie bookstores in shaping local literary trends. For indie authors, cultivating relationships with these community hubs is key to gaining visibility and connecting with readers.
industry
Anna Madorsky's "Gutted, Dissolved, Then Finished, Book 3" has earned a 4+ star rating and the IndieReader Approved seal, highlighting the power of independent reviews for self-published authors. This recognition boosts credibility and marketability in the competitive publishing landscape.
book-awards
Reading is becoming a 'sexy' cultural trend, with celebrities and luxury brands embracing literature. This shift offers indie authors new opportunities for visibility and engagement with a broader, fashion-conscious audience.
industry
Adam Korga's "Fuckup Almanac (Volume 2)" reveals the inherent fragilities of our automated world, a crucial read for indie authors navigating complex digital publishing platforms. Understanding systemic failures, algorithmic bias, and neglected infrastructure is key to mitigating risks in self-publi
book-awards
Claire Vaye Watkins' new novel, "Yellow Pine," explores environmental activism, motherhood, and midlife reawakening through her deep connection to the Mojave Desert. It highlights how personal experiences and passionate causes fuel compelling narratives for indie authors.
kdp
Indie authors can leverage self-published magazines to expand their brand, engage readers, and control their creative narrative beyond traditional book formats. This tangible marketing tool offers unique content and strengthens author-reader connections.
industry
Nic Minnella's "The Twilight Walker" highlights the power of concise blurbs and positive reviews for indie authors. Crafting impactful descriptions and securing credible endorsements are crucial for discoverability and success in a competitive market.
book-awards
Matthew Quick's new memoir, 'Dad, Love, Me,' reviewed by the New York Times, employs a unique epistolary structure as a letter to his father with dementia. This innovative approach highlights how unconventional narrative forms can create deeply personal and resonant stories for indie authors.
book-awards
Laura Doyle's 'The Surrendered Wife' began as a self-published phenomenon, proving that grassroots momentum can lead to major traditional publishing deals and widespread impact for indie authors.
book-awards
Kim Phillips-Fein's 'Country of Lords' uncovers America's hidden history of anti-egalitarian thought, challenging the nation's commitment to equality. This review highlights the power of re-examining established narratives for indie authors seeking to create compelling non-fiction.
book-awards
Charlie Walker's "On Thin Ice" turns a Siberian expedition into a high-stakes geopolitical drama, offering indie authors a powerful lesson: unique, authentic experiences, even failures, can craft compelling narratives. This review highlights the power of personal stories in capturing reader interest
kdp
For indie authors, securing pre-launch book reviews is more crucial than ever in 2026 for visibility and sales. Strategic planning, including ARC teams, NetGalley, and trade reviewers, transforms product pages with vital social proof.
kdp
For indie authors planning a 2026 release, building an author platform beforehand is crucial. Prioritize an email list, focus on a single content channel, and assemble a launch team to support your book's release.
kdp
In 2026, an author website is indispensable for indie authors to build their brand, connect with readers, and drive direct book sales. This guide provides a step-by-step process for creating an effective online presence, covering domain choice, platform selection, crafting book pages, and avoiding c
kdp
In 2026, a well-crafted book launch press release is essential for indie authors to gain media attention and professional visibility. It's a free marketing tool that, when focused on a newsworthy angle and structured professionally, can attract journalists, bloggers, and reviewers.
author-organizations
For indie authors tackling science-related content, direct consultation with scientists offers a powerful way to ensure accuracy and unlock new inspiration. This approach can elevate storytelling and build credibility, moving beyond general research to incorporate nuanced, cutting-edge details. Disc
industry
Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, honors the history and contributions of the disability community. This article explores its origins, significance for the publishing industry, and how indie authors can champion authentic representation and inclusivity.
industry
A federal court has granted final approval to a landmark $1.5 billion settlement with AI company Anthropic, offering compensation to authors whose copyrighted works were used without permission to train AI models. Eligible authors, especially indie and self-published creators, could receive approxim
industry
Italy will be the Guest of Honor at the 2026 Guadalajara International Book Fair, bringing 61 authors and 33 publishers under the theme "The world speaks to us like a great book." This event offers significant opportunities for indie authors to reach the Spanish-speaking market.
book-awards
Michael Cunningham's new memoir, 'Unsayable,' explores the profound challenge of articulating the inexpressible, offering a masterclass in personal narrative and the creative process for all writers, especially indie authors.
industry
Memoirist Teron Buford highlights how personal narratives are powerful tools for connection, healing, and growth, urging authors to embrace their unique stories over striving for perfection. This perspective is vital for indie authors seeking to resonate authentically with readers.
industry
S.K. Snyder's Born for You highlights the enduring appeal of classic romance tropes like childhood friends-to-lovers and forbidden love. Set in 1805, the novel explores the evolving relationship between Olivia and Jack, offering valuable insights for indie authors on crafting compelling nar
industry
Suhail Rafidi's CETUS FINALIS: A Gray Whale Odyssey, an immersive audiobook narrated by Ryan Hurtgen, won the Audiobook (Fiction) category at the 2026 IndieReader Discovery Awards. Rafidi talks whales, whale oil, and life as an indie author.
industry
Hane Selmani advises indie authors to fully polish their books before seeking reviews or awards. Prioritizing thorough editing, proofreading, and professional presentation is crucial for success and a strong author brand.
industry
Vincent Rubino's "Nebraska Avenue" offers indie authors a masterclass in crafting nostalgic, character-driven stories with authentic voice and a strong sense of place, proving that even simple plots can profoundly resonate with readers.
book-awards
Los Angeles is launching its first book crawl featuring 13 indie bookstores. This event offers a prime opportunity for indie authors to connect with the local literary community and expand their book's reach.
book-awards
Roberta Gregory's 'Bitchy!' comics, now collected in a new compendium, exemplify how an unflinching, authentic voice can establish a significant legacy. Her pioneering self-publishing career offers crucial lessons for indie authors on challenging norms and resonating deeply with readers.
book-awards
Filmmakers consistently adapt Homer's 'Odyssey,' showcasing the timeless appeal of universal themes and story structures. This offers indie authors a powerful lesson: adapt timeless narratives and universal themes to create fresh, engaging stories for modern audiences.
book-awards
Colson Whitehead's "Cool Machine" concludes his Harlem Trilogy, blending vibrant crime fiction with deep societal themes. It's a masterclass for authors in crafting compelling characters and settings.
book-awards
T.C. Kemper's "The Ginghams" exemplifies how a high-concept middle-grade sci-fi novel can blend personal character arcs with broader societal commentary. This Kirkus-reviewed book offers indie authors valuable lessons on crafting compelling, unique premises that resonate with young readers.
book-awards
Jennifer Rich's "Paper Tombs" explores Holocaust survivors' "memorial books" (yizker bikher), highlighting the power of collaborative, multidisciplinary storytelling to create deeply meaningful and lasting works of remembrance. This offers vital lessons for indie authors on purpose-driven creation a
book-awards
Sean Hotchkiss's debut memoir, "Hating Women," offers a raw and honest account of his journey from childhood trauma and dysfunctional relationships to recovery. This powerful narrative showcases how indie authors can tackle sensitive subjects with vulnerability, inspiring readers and offering a mode
Author Marketing
Every indie author, from the debut novelist to the seasoned bestseller, faces a unique set of challenges that often involve navigating complex moral and ethical…
weekly-digest
This Week in Self-Publishing: Expert insights on book awards, KDP pricing, and print production for indie authors in July 2026.
obituaries
Shahrnush Parsipur, the Iranian novelist whose Women Without Men reached UK readers in 2026 and a Booker longlist, has died at 80. Penguin will publish her prison memoir in English in 2027.
weekly-digest
This Week in Self-Publishing — June 27, 2026 Your essential guide to the week's top stories, emerging trends, and expert insights in the dynamic world of self-publishing for June 27, 2026. Greetings,
book-marketing
An author email list is the only marketing asset you truly own. This guide shows you exactly how to build one from scratch without spending a dollar on ads — us…
book-marketing
Your book description is the single most important piece of marketing copy you will write.
kdp-strategy
Publisher Rocket is the most powerful keyword research tool available to indie authors on Amazon KDP.
industry
The midlist — once the backbone of traditional publishing — is disappearing. Major publishers are concentrating advances on celebrity memoirs and proven bestsel…
weekly-digest
Stay ahead in self-publishing with our May 30, 2026 digest. Expert analysis on KDP printing, book awards, and the evolving landscape for indie authors.
Strategy
Amazon's changing review policies have made one thing clear: authors who own their reader relationships are insulated from platform changes. Here is why building an email list is now the foundation of every review strategy.
Marketing
Amazon now treats sudden review spikes the same way it treats sales spikes — as a potential manipulation signal. Here is why the launch week review blitz is now a liability and what to do instead.
industry
Winning a major literary prize can transform a book's commercial trajectory overnight.
weekly-digest
Your essential weekly guide to self-publishing success. Stay informed on top stories, emerging trends, and expert insights for authors in May 2026.
Industry News
Amazon is removing AI-generated book reviews and penalizing the accounts that post them. Here is how to recognize AI reviews, why they are dangerous, and exactly what to tell your ARC readers and street team.
Industry News
Amazon book reviews that once appeared within hours now take days or weeks to be approved. Here is what changed, why it is happening, and how authors should adjust their launch strategy.
Industry News
Amazon uses Kindle reading data — page reads, reading speed, time spent — to determine if a reviewer actually read the book before posting. Here is how it works and what it means for authors and reviewers.
Industry News
Amazon's automated review bots are removing legitimate reviews at an unprecedented rate in 2026. Here is what changed, why real readers are getting caught, and what authors need to know.
industry
Seven-figure advances, competitive auctions, and international co-publishing deals are shaping the 2026 publishing landscape.
Marketing
Using multiple review exchange platforms simultaneously is the most common mistake indie authors make — and it can get your reviews removed. Here is the one rule that keeps you safe.
Marketing
Editorial reviews are not the same as Amazon customer reviews. Here is what Kirkus, Readers' Favorite, and Amazon Author Central actually do for indie authors — and the cold-pitch scam you need to know about.
Marketing
BookFunnel and StoryOrigin both handle ARC file delivery — but they work differently and cost differently. Here is which one makes sense for your publishing setup in 2026, and why Google Drive is not the answer.
industry
The Authors Guild model contract tells authors to strike film and television out of the publisher's grant. A March 18, 2026 Lionsgate deal was a studio buy, with Jane Fonda attached.
weekly-digest
Your weekly dose of self-publishing insights for May 16, 2026. Discover top award-winning books, emerging trends, and expert editorial commentary.
Marketing
A review redirect link takes readers directly to Amazon's Write a Review page, bypassing the product page. Here is how to create one and why it dramatically increases your review conversion rate.
Marketing
Are review exchange platforms safe to use in 2026? A detailed comparison of BookBounty, Get Authentic Book Reviews, and Gemsy — including real review counts, costs, and Amazon compliance analysis.
industry
Deadline and Variety reported on March 18, 2026, that Lionsgate won a seven-studio bidding war for Virginia Evans's novel, with Jane Fonda attached. Neither story has a release date or a price.
Marketing
What really happens when you manage your own ARC team? A real 8-book test with 201 readers reveals the true completion rates, drop-off patterns, and what tools like StoryOrigin actually deliver.
Marketing
Getting Amazon book reviews in 2026 is harder than it has ever been — and more important than ever. Here is the complete TOS-compliant strategy indie authors are using to build review counts without risking their accounts.
cover-design
Uncover the top 5 book cover design mistakes indie authors are making, backed by CoverCrushing's data.
Tools & Technology
Fewer than 30% of indie authors who run Amazon ads consider them profitable. BookAds AI is a new platform built exclusively for KDP authors that automates campaign creation, AI keyword targeting, and royalty-aware ACOS reporting.
Industry News
By The Publishing Times Editorial Team
industry
Hybrid publishing occupies the contested middle ground between traditional and self-publishing — and it is one of the most misunderstood models in the industry.
Marketing & Discoverability
By The Publishing Times Editorial Team
Marketing & Discoverability
By The Publishing Times Editorial Team