What is partner publishing?
Partner publishing is a hybrid model where authors invest in professional services but retain 100% of their royalties and creative control. Unlike traditional publishing, which takes rights and royalties, or self-publishing, where you do everything yourself, partner publishing blends professional support with full author ownership. At Current Words, you receive editing, design, distribution, and marketing while staying in control.
How much does it cost to publish a book with Current Words?
Publishing packages vary depending on the level of editing, design, page length, and marketing support. Costs cover professional editing, custom cover and interior design, ISBNs, distribution setup, and a marketing starter kit. Flexible payment schedules are available, and you always keep 100% of your royalties.
What kinds of books do you publish?
We publish fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and short-form collections across several imprints. Current Words includes Old Scratch Press (literary fiction and poetry), Hawkshaw Press (mystery/thriller), Out of This World Press (sci-fi/fantasy), and Instant Noodles (micro/flash). We also publish memoirs, hybrid works, and genre-bending projects.
Do I keep my royalties with partner publishing?
Yes. You keep 100% of your book’s royalties.
Unlike traditional publishers, Current Words never takes a cut. All royalties from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and indie bookstores go directly to you.
What is the editing process like?
We offer developmental, line, and copyediting to shape your book into its best version. Developmental editing helps with structure and pacing, line editing focuses on style and clarity, and copyediting polishes grammar and mechanics. Every project begins with a consultation to match you with the right level of service.
How long does it take to publish with Current Words?
Most books are published within 4–9 months of manuscript acceptance. Timelines depend on editing needs and author readiness for design and production. Poetry collections may move faster, while longer novels can take longer. Our focus is on quality and collaboration.
What makes Current Words different from self-publishing?
Self-publishing leaves you on your own, while Current Words provides professional support and guidance. Many self-published authors struggle with cover design, formatting, and marketing. Partner publishing offers a professional team to handle these tasks, while you retain creative control and royalties.
Can you help me market my book?
Yes. Every author receives a marketing starter kit and access to monthly marketing meetings. We provide Amazon ad support, Bookstagram outreach, blog features, and launch strategies. Our monthly author marketing meetings (free for clients) keep you updated on effective tactics.
Do you accept poetry and short fiction?
Absolutely. Poetry, short stories, and microfiction are central to our mission. Old Scratch Press publishes poetry and short story collections, while Instant Noodles publishes flash and microfiction. We believe shorter forms deserve equal space and visibility. Refer to the submission guidelines on those sites for details.
How do I submit my manuscript?
Submit through our website with a sample of your work and a short author bio. We accept digital submissions year-round. For full manuscripts, send 20–30 pages. We’ll review and follow up to discuss fit and services.
What is the difference between traditional, self-, and partner publishing?
Traditional publishing takes rights and royalties, self-publishing gives you full control but no support, and partner publishing offers professional help while letting you keep your earnings. Traditional publishing is competitive and often slow; self-publishing can be overwhelming. Partner publishing bridges the gap, giving you access to professionals without giving up ownership or royalties.
Can you help me write or finish my book?
Yes, through coaching and developmental editing, we support authors at every stage. Whether you’re starting a draft or polishing a manuscript, we provide one-on-one coaching, workshops, and guidance to help you finish strong and prepare for publication.
Do you accept unsolicited manuscripts?
Yes, we welcome unsolicited submissions year-round. Unlike many publishers, we don’t require an agent. Authors can submit directly through our website. We review all submissions carefully and follow up with next steps if we’re a good fit.
Do you charge reading fees?
No, we never charge reading or submission fees. We believe authors shouldn’t have to pay just to have their work considered. Submission is free; investment only comes later if you choose to move forward with partner publishing services.
Do you provide ISBNs?
Snippet: Yes, ISBNs are included in every publishing package.
Expanded: Current Words secures and registers ISBNs for your book. You’re listed as the author of record, and ISBNs are tied to your imprint within our publishing family.
Will my book be available on Amazon and in bookstores?
Yes. We distribute through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Ingram, making your book orderable worldwide. Distribution ensures your book appears on major online retailers. Brick and mortar stores as well as libraries are able to order your book through our Ingram distribution. Given that over 1 million new books are published every year and retailers have limited shelf space, we cannot guarantee which bookstores or libraries will carry your title.
Can I use my own cover design?
Yes, you can use your own cover design or work with our team for a custom design. Many authors prefer a professional design for market impact. If you have a cover already, we’ll review it for formatting and print requirements. At your request we can create a tailored, genre-specific book cover.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we offer flexible payment schedules for publishing packages. Authors can choose installment plans to spread the cost of editing, design, and publishing services. This makes partner publishing more accessible while keeping all professional benefits.
Have a question that’s not in our FAQs? Feel free contact us.
Our mission
Current Words exists as an alternative venue for authors to bring their manuscripts to completion and, ultimately, publication.
Unlike vanity press companies that accept any and every manuscript, we review each submission closely and provide honest feedback on whether your title is a good fit for us, and whether we’re the right fit for you. Our long-term vision is to build a strong list of talented and diverse authors who seek a reliable and trustworthy publishing partner.
Our commitment
From our first conversation through the publication of your work and beyond, we are committed to providing top-quality customer service. We’ll be active partners throughout the entire publishing process, working closely with you to ensure your expectations are met and exceeded.
