Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Coffin & Nails?

Coffin & Nails Publishing is a non-traditional publishing house designed to guide and support debut and early-career authors through the self-publishing process. We offer a la carte services tailored to your needs, from beta reading to book formatting, editing, and more.

2. Are you a traditional or vanity publisher?

NEITHER. We’re not a traditional publisher, vanity press, or hybrid publisher. We help you retain 100% ownership of your work while providing professional services to assist you in self-publishing your book. The most important item: we never charge you anything upfront.

3. Do you offer advances?

We don’t provide monetary advances in the traditional sense (at least not yet). Instead, we cover the upfront costs, which are recouped through book sales. This approach allows you to focus on creating while minimizing financial barriers.

4. How does pricing work?

Our services are a la carte, meaning you only pay for the services you need. Many costs are recouped through book sales, allowing you to move toward high royalties faster. For example, editing services are priced at $4 per 1,000 words, and ISBN registration is $29.50 per format.

5. What does "a la carte" mean?

"A la carte" means you can choose only the services you need, whether it’s help with editing, formatting, Kickstarter campaigns, or branding. This flexibility allows you to stay in control of your publishing journey.

6. Do I need Coffin & Nails to self-publish?

Not necessarily. Many authors successfully self-publish on their own. However, if you want guidance, expertise, and help with time-consuming or challenging aspects of the process, we’re here to make it easier for you.

7. Do you take ownership of my book?

No. You retain 100% ownership of your work. We’re here to assist and guide you, not to take control of your intellectual property. We will have exclusive rights to publish your work in all market places unless otherwise negotiated in your agreement.

8. What if I submit the second or third book in a series?

That’s fine. You can keep your first entries in the series where they are. If you want to bring the first of the series to Coffin & Nails, and you don’t use any of our services for that book (or books), you will receive 100% royalties on that title. If we accept any book in the series, we do claim publishing rights for all subsequent books in the series unless otherwise agreed upon.

9. Can I opt-in as a beta or ARC reader?

Yes! All clients have the opportunity to opt-in as beta or ARC readers for other authors in our community. This is a great way to give back, learn from others, and connect with fellow writers.

10. What if I need help with something not listed?

We’re always open to discussing additional needs or custom solutions. Reach out, and we’ll see how we can help.

11. How do I get started?

Just submit your manuscript here and find out if you are a fit for Coffin & Nails!