Should You Self-Publish, Traditionally Publish, or Go Hybrid? Here’s the Real Deal
If you’ve written a book — or you’re getting close — you’re probably wondering:
What’s the best way to publish this?
It’s a crucial decision. And the right answer depends on what you want out of the experience: creative control, professional polish, industry credibility, long-term revenue, or all of the above.
Let’s unpack your three main options: traditional publishing, self-publishing, and hybrid publishing — and what you really need to know about each.
Traditional Publishing: The Legacy Route
What it is:
You pitch your manuscript to agents or publishing houses. If accepted, they take on editing, design, production, and distribution — often without upfront cost to you.
Pros:
- Recognizable names and industry clout
- Possibility of bookstore placement or press coverage
- No out-of-pocket production expenses
Cons:
- Long wait times (often 12–24 months)
- High rejection rates (even great books get passed over)
- Little to no creative control
- Royalties are low (typically 5–15% of net)
Good fit if: You want traditional credibility, are okay with giving up control, and are willing to wait.
Self-Publishing: Full Control, Full Responsibility
What it is:
You handle (or hire out) everything from editing and cover design to formatting, publishing, and marketing.
Pros:
- Total creative and business control
- Keep most of your royalties (60–70% in many cases)
- Fast publishing timelines
Cons:
- You’re the project manager — it’s all on you
- Quality can suffer without the right team
- Marketing and discoverability are major challenges
Good fit if: You’re resourceful, self-motivated, and willing to invest time and money into making your book stand out.
Hybrid Publishing: Quality + Control
What it is:
A professional publishing partner helps you shape, design, publish, and market your book — combining expert support with author ownership. It’s collaborative, not corporate.
At Morgan Media & Publishing, we operate as a true hybrid publisher, which means:
- You keep 100% of your royalties
- You get 90 days of professional PR support after launch
- You retain creative control while working with an experienced team
Pros:
- You own your royalties and rights
- Professional editing, design, and branding support
- Marketing and distribution strategy included
- Faster timeline than traditional
- Personalized attention and a real relationship
Cons:
- There’s an upfront investment — but it’s for services that actually move the needle
Good fit if: You want a professional book without giving up control — and you want help reaching readers after launch, not just getting to print.
So… Which Path Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
- How much creative control do I want?
- Do I have the time (and knowledge) to manage this on my own?
- Am I publishing for prestige, profit, or impact?
- Do I want a long-term brand, or just to get this one book out?
There’s no wrong answer — just different roads to the same destination. The key is being honest about what kind of support you need and what kind of publishing experience you want.
The Bottom Line
Publishing your book is more than just hitting “upload” — it’s about giving your work the best chance to succeed.
Whether you go solo, chase a traditional deal, or choose a hybrid route like the one we offer at Morgan Media & Publishing, make sure your decision matches your goals — and doesn’t sell your story short.
Got questions?
Let’s talk through them. Your publishing journey doesn’t have to be confusing — and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
