How to Publish a Christian Novel
Book publishing is a very competitive arena. It is not easy to get the attention of major publishers; they tend to focus on celebrities and already established authors. Many people choose to self-publish their own books when major publishers aren't interested, because it has become increasingly fast, easy and cost effective to print and publish books. Christian novels are popular because they target a very specific group of people who tend to like reading literature about their faith. Here is a step by step guide for publishing your Christian novel.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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The Self-Publishing Option
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1
Complete your book and have it professionally edited. Don't skimp on price; look for an editor who has worked on successful high profile Christian titles. This will be key in your search for a traditional Christian publisher.
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2
Send galleys of your Christian novel to local clergy members and high profile Christian community members to get their early reviews of the book.
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3
Have a professional typesetter transform your manuscript in Microsoft Word into a PDF file. Be sure to include the positive reviews you received from clergy and community members. Hire a book designer to create an eye catching book cover that accurately represents the theme of your Christian novel.
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4
Send your text and cover file to a reputable book printer to be manufactured.
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5
Write and send out a press release to Christian media sources. The PRWeb news release service allows you to target your release to specific media contacts who may be interested in your Christian publication.
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6
Establish an Amazon Advantage account so that you can sell your Christian novel on Amazon. Put up a three or four page website to publicize your new book (see "Resources" for links and guidance on online selling).
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7
When your printed books are in hand, give some away to very close family members and ask them to tell other people about your book. Sell the book to other family and friends for a reasonable price. Attend Christian networking events and carry a couple of copies of your book around with you (or in your car) at all times in case you come upon someone who is interested.
Finding a Traditional Christian Publisher
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1
Complete your book and have it professionally edited. Don't skimp on price; look for an editor who has worked on successful high profile Christian titles. This will be key in your search for a traditional Christian publisher.
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2
Send your book out to all of the literary agents you can find who specialize in Christian and spiritual books. Search WritersNet to find addresses and phone numbers (see Resources below). Follow their specific instructions for how to send an inquiry. If you are blessed to find a literary agent who will represent you, he will be responsible for sending your book manuscript out to publishers and drumming up interest in your book.
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3
Negotiate a contract with the publisher. In exchange for the rights to your book, the publisher will give you royalties and an advance. Your literary agent will take a percentage (usually about 15 percent). You may even be offered a multi-book deal if the publisher is very interested in your book. The publisher will handle all costs and take care of distribution, but you are still responsible for marketing your own book in most cases. You will need to make appearances (such as at book signings and conference events) to publicize your book.
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1
Tips & Warnings
AuthorHouse estimates that 98 percent of books sent to Christian publishers get rejected. There are self-publishing services that are established specifically for publishing Christian books. Keep in mind that while these services sometimes seem easier to navigate, they come with increased costs and reduced flexibility on your part. In most cases, you are not defined as the publisher of the book.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Trafficz - St. Joseph Florist
