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Why Manuscript Styling Matters (and How It Helps the Process)

Why Manuscript Styling Matters (and How It Helps the Process)

‘Do I really need to style my manuscript?’

Many authors ask this question and the answer is simply, but emphatically, YES! Manuscript styling expediates the process of publishing your book. Publishing consists of many dynamic parts, and streamlining even one can positively affect your timeline. Of course, ensuring that the content of your book is laid out in a logical and readable manner is the largest and most time-consuming of those components, and can be unique to each project, so it makes sense that manuscript styling falls to the author.

Contents

1. How Manuscript Styling Makes Publishing Smoother
2. Style Hierarchy Helps Communicate Structure
3. Don’t Panic: Styling Doesn’t Mean “Perfect”
4. Where to Start with Manuscript Styling
5. Final Thoughts: Great Books Start with Great Preparation

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

1. How Manuscript Styling Makes Publishing Smoother

After your manuscript is submitted, our designers need to arrange the manuscript in a specific style, including how the text appears on the page, spacing, fonts, and the placement of images. The goal of this is to make the book easy to read and visually appealing to the reader.

The technical aspects are critical to the visual layout of the content and will vary according to the length of the book, genre, and even print format. These aspects also influence how the typesetters (designers) will determine the trim size (book size), the margins (how much white space is visible around the text), and the font’s typeface and size. However, many other technical matters must be taken into consideration, to—very importantly—invoke the intended mood of the book using the setting, period, and theme.

While typesetters seem to perform magic, They Are Not Mind Readers. Without those styling indicators, it can be difficult for them to tell what should be a heading, a subheading, quotations, or regular text. Without clear and consistent styling, the typesetter’s manual workload is increased, therefore increasing the time typesetting takes and prolonging your project.

Green Hill Publishing provides a Word template for you to copy and paste your manuscript into and style to your preferences. With even basic Word styling to start with, then application of the Green Hill template, the document mapping and typesetting processes will be more refined, saving time and getting your book ready for printing and distribution quicker.

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2. Style Hierarchy Helps Communicate Structure

Why does Hierarchy matter? In short, organising your content into levels of importance, or hierarchy, gives readers a clear sense of the flow of the book. Headings and subheadings are especially helpful cues for both your designer and your readers. Defined structure helps designers produce a more polished and accurate layout.

Readers will benefit from understanding what you have written and what has been quoted from another source, what is regular text and what you wish to emphasise, and so on. Without styling, all content will blend together. There are some Hidden Benefits to styling your manuscript, such as improving accessibility, making revisions quicker and easier, and significantly speeding up the typesetting processes.

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3. Don’t Panic: Styling Doesn’t Mean “Perfect”

Perfection is not the aim here. Smoothing out the process is.

Obviously, aiming for perfection and even styling as you go could stifle your creative rhythm. For that reason, focus on getting those words out on the page, expressing yourself, and enjoying it as you do it. There will be time for styling and re-drafting once you have transformed your thoughts and ideas into content.

Also, you really don’t need to be a wizard with Microsoft Word. Have a play around with the Styles pane at the top of the Home tab in Word, and search YouTube for beginner tutorials. It can be fun!

After your manuscript has been formatted, it may look quite different but don’t panic, the designers will go back to your original to determine your intended layout, and there will be opportunities to discuss.

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4. Where to Start with Manuscript Styling

The steps for styling your manuscript:

  • Experiment with the Styles pane in Word.
  • Watch some tutorials on YouTube.
  • Apply basic Word styles to your manuscript such as Heading 1, Heading 2, Normal, etc.
  • Download and use the Green Hill Template.
  • Reach out to support@greenhillpublishing.com.au if you have questions about styling.

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5. Final Thoughts: Great Books Start with Great Preparation

No one wants to limit your creativity or change your message. That is not the purpose of styling.

Green Hill Publishing are here to help bring your vision to life, and making sure that the process runs as smoothly as possible, and consequently ensuring it happens quicker.

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The Little Book of
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In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

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Is self-publishing a fantasy novel viable?

Is self-publishing a fantasy novel viable?

Self-publishing isn’t just for memoirs and family histories – it’s a fantastic option for fantasy novels, too! It offers a direct way for authors to share their unique and imaginative stories no matter how niche or controversial their topics may be.

Contents

1. Why self-publishing works so well for fantasy
2. Recent success stories in self-published fantasy
3. Tips for self-publishing your fantasy novel
4. Marketing strategies for self-published fantasy novels

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

1. Why self-publishing works so well for fantasy

Self-publishing offers a fantastic opportunity for fantasy authors. This approach is not just viable; it also provides numerous advantages. Let’s explore some reasons why:

 

1.1 Control over series-potential and world-building

Fantasy writing emphasises detailed world-building and character development across multiple books. As a self-published author, you have complete control! You decide the length of your series, control the pacing, and bring your creative vision to life without restrictions.

Unlike traditional publishers that often impose limits on series length and story changes, self-publishing lets you carve your own path. Picture creating a vast fantasy realm filled with rich histories and diverse cultures. Self-publishing empowers you to connect every aspect of your story seamlessly, keeping readers captivated by your attention to detail.

Creating a series of fantasy book over a standalone also helps build a loyal fan base. Readers love diving into ongoing adventures, and you can keep them engaged with each new release.

 

1.2 Allows you to explore niche or controversial topics

Fantasy literature goes beyond just dragons and wizards; it’s a rich genre that embraces diverse themes and intricate narratives. Self-publishing empowers authors to explore niche or unconventional topics that often don’t fit the traditional publishing mould. Whether you want to blend fantasy with cyberpunk elements, delve into dark, morally complex characters, or explore controversial political themes through a fantasy lens, self-publishing gives you the creative freedom to do so.

This unique ability to break boundaries appeals to readers who are over having fantasy gatekept and instead crave fresh perspectives and original storytelling. Additionally, niche topics often attract dedicated audiences. By engaging with these communities, you can build a loyal readership that champions your work and shares it with others.

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2. Recent success stories in self-published fantasy

Still unsure if self-publishing your fantasy novel is the right choice? Have a look at some inspiring success stories of other fantasy authors who started their journey self-published:

 

2.1 Wight – Cradle Series

Will Wight’s Cradle series shines as a prime example of how self-publishing can achieve massive success. Wight used Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) to launch his epic fantasy series, which were his debut novels. With engaging characters and a captivating storyline, he captured the hearts of fantasy fans worldwide and became a New York Times and Kindle best-selling author.

Wight consistently released new content and actively engaged with his audience on platforms like Reddit. By connecting with readers directly, he built a passionate following eager for each new instalment. The Cradle series consistently ranks high on Amazon’s charts, proving that self-publishing fantasy novels can lead to substantial financial rewards.

 

2.2 Sarah J Maas – Assassin’s Blade Novella

Sarah J. Maas’ Assassin’s Blade novella is a remarkable success in the fantasy genre. While most know her for her more recent achievements in traditional publishing, Maas started out by publishing stories online, independent of any publisher. These stories gained so much readership interest, she later gained a traditional publishing deal for her now-acclaimed debut Throne of Glass series.

This strategic choice allowed her to prove her story’s viability and readership long before a traditional publisher was on the scene.

 

2.3 Rachel Aaron – Heartstrikers Series

Rachel Aaron’s Heartstrikers series is another prime example of successful self-publishing in the fantasy genre. By taking control of her writing career through self-publishing, Aaron created a captivating urban fantasy world filled with dragons, magic, and intricate plots. Her commitment to high-quality storytelling and effective marketing strategies built a loyal fan base and earned a host of positive reviews on platforms like Goodreads.

The Heartstrikers series not only showcases Aaron’s talent but also highlights the growing opportunities for self-published authors in today’s competitive market. This success story shows how writers can carve out their niche, engage readers, and thrive as independent authors.

 

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3. Tips for self-publishing your fantasy novel

 

3.1 Invest in detailed world-building

World-building is the backbone of any fantasy novel. Readers crave rich, immersive environments they can lose themselves in. Take the time to flesh out your world’s history, geography, cultures, and magic systems. However, consistency is key – ensure your world adheres to its own rules and logic.

Investing in world-building not only enhances your story’s depth but also lays the foundation for future instalments. Readers who connect with your world will eagerly anticipate returning to it with each new book.

 

3.2 Get an eye-catching cover and well-made book interior

Never underestimate the importance of a captivating book cover in attracting readers. Your book cover is more often than not a reader’s first impression of you and your book, making it a crucial marketing tool. Collaborating with a talented and experienced book cover designer who understands the nuances of the fantasy genre can greatly enhance your cover’s appeal.

A well-designed cover should effectively convey the essence of your story and align with genre expectations without trying to say too much. Simple yet effective covers are best.

For the interior, there is more to it than simply putting words on a page. Typesetting and interior book design play essential roles in not only making your book attractive, but also in making your book an enjoyable reading experience and conveying quality and professionalism.

 

3.3 Use series potential to attract long-term fans

Fantasy storytelling thrives on epic sagas and interconnected narratives. To maximise your success, plan your book series from the very beginning. Create a detailed roadmap that outlines the main plot, character development, and key events. This strategic foresight helps you plant the seeds of foreshadowing for future instalments, keeping readers engaged and eager for more.

 

3.4 Build your community with genre-focused marketing

Engage with your audience by establishing a strong online presence – your author platform. Using your author platforms, join fantasy-themed forums, subreddits, and social media groups to interact with fans. On your own accounts and author website, share valuable insights into your writing process, offer behind-the-scenes glimpses, and provide sneak peeks of upcoming book releases.

Doing all of this promotes community interaction and loyalty, fostering a sense of belonging for readers. The more engaged your audience is, the more likely they are to promote your novels and keep coming back for future editions and sequels.

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4. Marketing strategies for self-published fantasy novels

Writing a captivating novel is just the beginning; effective book marketing plays a crucial role in reaching a larger audience. By using marketing strategies, authors can significantly boost their visibility and connect with readers, maximising their book’s reach in today’s competitive literary market.

 

4.1 Create a visual presence on social media

Visual content reigns supreme on social media. To effectively engage your audience, use eye-catching graphics, stunning book covers, captivating character art, and engaging videos. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are perfect for showcasing your fantasy world with visually appealing content. You can use interactive posts, polls, and Q&A sessions to boost engagement as well, generating interest and readership loyalty.

Be sure to regularly share updates on your writing process and upcoming book releases. The key to keeping readers excited about your work is to establish a strong, consistent, and appealing author brand across your platforms.

 

4.2 Leverage Kindle Unlimited (KU) for extra visibility on your eBook

Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited (KU) program offers a fantastic opportunity for self-published authors to boost their book’s visibility. By enrolling in Kindle Unlimited, authors let readers access their eBooks for free through a subscription service, significantly broadening their audience reach.

Participating in the KU program can also improve your book’s ranking on Amazon’s bestseller charts, making it more visible to potential buyers. This extensive reach introduces your work to new readers who might not have discovered it otherwise, ultimately increasing your book sales and loyal readership.

 

4.3 Connect with fantasy bloggers and Bookstagrammers

Contacting influencers in the fantasy community is a powerful way to boost your book’s visibility, allowing you to tap into their dedicated followers who value their recommendations. To get started, be sure to do your research to ensure the reviewer or influencer aligns to your marketing needs (there isn’t much use sending a fantasy novel to someone who only reviews non-fiction books!). When you’ve received interest and approval, then you can organise sending out review copies of your book to them or participate in author interviews and features on their platforms.

These collaborations often lead to increased exposure, positive reviews, and a growing readership. In turn, this helps to enhance your credibility as a self-published author and connect you with a larger audience who are passionate about fantasy novels.

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SUBMIT YOUR BOOK DETAILS
CALL US 1300 810 131

Featured Blog Posts:

Featured Blog Posts

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

submit your project details

Choosing the best childrens book format for your target age

Choosing the best childrens book format for your target age

Choosing the right book format for your child is as crucial as selecting the right book itself. Whether you want to foster a love of reading in your child, engage students as a teacher, or attract young readers as a self-published author, the format plays a significant role. Different age groups have unique needs regarding books, and picking the appropriate format can greatly enhance the reading experience.

Contents

1. Board books for babies and toddlers
2. Picture books for preschoolers
3. Early readers for kindergarteners
4. Chapter books for young readers
5. Middle grade novels for tweens

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

1. Board books for babies and toddlers

If you have a toddler at home, you know how much they love to explore their world with all their senses. That’s where board books become essential. Designed for little hands, these sturdy books suit young readers perfectly and are ideal for early childhood development. They can engage toddlers and encourage a love for reading from an early age.

1.1 Why board books?

Board books offer high durability, making them perfect for babies and toddlers who may not handle their belongings gently. They’re easy to grip and feature thick pages that little ones can turn easily. Ideal for early childhood reading, board books nurture a love of literature from a young age while withstanding the wear and tear of daily use.

1.2 How to make your board book

When selecting the perfect board book for your child, prioritise bright colours and simple, engaging illustrations. Interactive features such as lift-the-flap designs and textured surfaces keep your little one entertained, but can be expensive to print, so consider your budget ahead of time. Additionally, books with repetitive text and rhymes not only captivate young readers but also support language development.

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2. Picture books for preschoolers

As children grow, their reading needs evolve significantly. For preschoolers just beginning to grasp the concept of stories, picture books serve as an ideal choice. These engaging books can start to have more in-depth narratives than baby and toddler books, but still need vibrant images to help the child understand the narrative. By incorporating colorful illustrations and simple text, picture books lay a perfect foundation for early literacy development.

2.1 Importance of picture books

Picture books blend engaging illustrations and simple text that bring stories to life. These books play a crucial role in helping children enhance their vocabulary, understand story sequencing, and nurture a lifelong love for storytelling. By reading picture books, kids enjoy tales and at the same time build essential language skills that support their early literacy development.

2.2 The key features for your picture book

When creating picture books for children, prioritise vibrant, engaging illustrations and straightforward but interesting storylines. Opt for texts that are short and simple, allowing the colorful images to convey the story and enhance early literacy to foster a love for reading in young readers.

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3. Early readers for kindergarteners

When children enter kindergarten, they become primed for early readers. These specially designed books facilitate the transition from picture books to more text-heavy stories, supporting literacy development without throwing them in the deep end. Early readers play a crucial role in helping young kids enhance their reading skills and build confidence as they explore more complex narratives.

3.1 Benefits of early readers

Early readers feature simple sentences and familiar vocabulary which helps children start reading independently. These books often include rhyming words and repetitive phrases, making reading fun and boosting confidence. Engaging stories and relatable language support literacy development in young learners.

3.2 What to consider for your early reader

When making a book for early readers, opt for large print with ample white space to make the text more approachable. Include illustrations, but keep them secondary to the text to aid comprehension. This approach helps young readers feel confident and engaged as they develop their reading skills.

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4. Chapter books for young readers

Once children gain confidence with early readers, they are ready to transition to chapter books. These chapter books feature more text and fewer illustrations, serving as a vital bridge between early reading materials and more advanced novels. This progression helps young readers develop their skills and prepares them for more complex stories. Engaging with chapter books not only enhances literacy but also encourages imagination and critical thinking.

4.1 Why chapter books?

Chapter books play a crucial role in helping young readers build reading stamina and enhance their skills. They offer more complex storylines and characters that prepare children for longer novels. By engaging with chapter books, kids improve their comprehension and become confident readers, setting a strong foundation for their literary journey.

4.2 How to make your young reader

Focus on developing an easy-to-follow storyline with interesting characters. Because young readers have very few illustrations, remember to include ample description of characters, places, and items to engage the reader’s imagination and start developing this important skill.

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5. Middle grade novels for tweens

Middle grade novels, aimed at tweens aged 8–12, serve as perfect gateways for young readers ready to explore more complex themes and engaging storylines. These novels seldom feature illustrations and require much more in the way of plot and characterisation than the previous book types discussed. Middle grade novels provide a substantial reading experience, helping tweens to develop critical reading skills while enjoying captivating narratives.

5.1 The importance of middle grade novels

These novels help tweens enhance critical thinking skills and foster empathy through diverse characters and relatable situations. By presenting various perspectives, they encourage deeper engagement with literature, making reading a more enriching experience for young readers.

5.2 Creating your middle grade novel

When writing books for tweens, focus on stories that feature strong, relatable characters and engaging plots that promote critical thinking and personal growth. Don’t be afraid to write a plot twist or two! Select age-appropriate themes that address real-life challenges a child of this age bracket may encounter (even if fantastical!).

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SUBMIT YOUR BOOK DETAILS
CALL US 1300 810 131

Featured Blog Posts:

Featured Blog Posts

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

submit your project details