top of page
Frequently Asked Questions
Home / Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions answered — so you can move forward with confidence.

1. What is the difference between traditional publishing and self-publishing?

Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to a publishing house that acquires certain rights and manages editing, design, printing, and distribution. Self-publishing allows the author to maintain ownership and control while hiring professionals to assist with production and distribution.

2. How long does the publishing process take?
Publishing timelines vary depending on editing needs, revisions, design complexity, and platform approvals. On average, editing can take 2–6 weeks, interior and cover design 2–4 weeks, and platform review 3–10 business days. A realistic full production process typically takes 6–12 weeks once a project begins.

TFL Media Company operates on a first-in, first-out system. Contracts must be signed and payment received in full before a project is placed into our production schedule. Our overall delivery goal is 8 months to one year from contract execution to final book completion, depending on workload and project scope. Occasionally, books are completed and delivered ahead of schedule.

3. Do I need an ISBN?
Yes. An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is required for books sold through retailers and distributors. It uniquely identifies each format of your book (paperback, hardcover, ebook).

4. Who owns the copyright to my book?
The author automatically owns the copyright once the manuscript is written. Publishing companies do not own your copyright unless you sign a rights-transfer agreement. Our company empowers authors to retain full ownership of their intellectual property.

5. What is the cost to publish a book?
Costs vary depending on editing level, design complexity, and distribution goals. Professional publishing services can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the scope of work and services required.

6. Can I publish my book without editing?
Technically yes — but professionally, no. Editing protects your credibility and ensures your message is communicated clearly, powerfully, and professionally.

7. What is self-publishing?
Self-publishing is when an author independently publishes their book, maintains ownership, and uses platforms such as Amazon KDP or IngramSpark for printing and distribution. Authors control pricing, royalties, and marketing decisions.

8. Do I need a publishing company if I self-publish?
You do not legally need one, but working with a professional publishing service ensures high-quality editing, industry-standard formatting, professional cover design, and proper platform setup.

9. How do I price my book?
Pricing depends on page count, printing costs, comparable books in your genre, and your overall goals (higher profit margin versus higher sales volume). We guide authors through strategic pricing decisions.

10. How do I market my book?
Marketing includes social media campaigns, author events and signings, email newsletters, launch teams, media appearances, partnerships, and paid advertising. Publishing the book is only the first step; marketing builds visibility and momentum.

11. Can I publish my book in multiple formats?
Yes. Books can be published in paperback, hardcover, ebook, and large print. Each format requires its own ISBN and formatting specifications.

12. What services does T. Fielding-Lowe Media Company provide?
We provide manuscript assessments, professional editing, interior formatting, cover design, ISBN guidance, platform setup, author coaching, and marketing consultation. We specialize in faith-based, inspirational, and purpose-driven books.

13. Who retains ownership of the book when working with your company?
You do. Our publishing model ensures authors retain full rights and royalties.

14. Do you guarantee book sales or bestseller status?
No. We do not guarantee sales, rankings, reviews, or commercial success. However, we provide professional tools and strategic guidance to position your book for impact and growth.

15. How do I know if my manuscript is ready to submit?
Your manuscript should be fully completed, thoroughly reviewed, and submitted as a final draft—not an in-progress version. We also offer manuscript readiness consultations if you are unsure.

16. How do payments work?
Work begins once payment is received in full. We offer financing services through 3rd parties and monthly payment plans.

17. How long does it take to publish with your company?
Our estimated timeline is 8 months to a year, depending on the scope of services and the author’s responsiveness during revisions and approvals.

18. Will my book be available worldwide?
Yes. Through major distribution platforms, your book can be made available nationally and internationally.

19. Do you publish only Christian books?
We specialize in faith-based and inspirational content aligned with our mission. All manuscripts are reviewed to ensure alignment with our values and company standards.

20. How do I get started?
Start by submitting your manuscript. From there, we will schedule a meeting to guide you through the next steps of your publishing journey or you can simply visit the book publishing page and select the a la cart services you need.

21. What makes your company different from other publishing services?
We are a Kingdom-centered media company committed to helping authors use their voices to inspire, heal, and transform lives. We focus on excellence, integrity, and purpose-driven storytelling.

22. Why do you focus on purpose-driven books?
Because books are tools for transformation, healing, and legacy. We believe stories matter and that powerful, faith-rooted messages can help grow the Kingdom of God and impact generations.

bottom of page