“There’s a lot more to publishing a book than writing it and slapping a cover on it” writes Vince Flynn.
So, if you have completed a manuscript; carefully consider whether you want it by traditional publishers through an agent or through professional self-publishers to publish book in UK; it’s completely your call.
Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each to arrive at a decision what you want to opt for.
Pros and cons of traditional publishing-
To get to a traditional publisher, you will have to make use of an agent. If luck favours you heavily, only then you will be signed on by them.
Pros are
- Everything is taken care of by the publisher.
- You pay nothing (except heftily to the agent).
- Your book will be available in physical bookstores.
- It has an undertone of prestige.
Cons are
- A lot of time is wasted both in approaching them and the process of publication.
- Authors have limited creative control.
- Publisher’s contracts favours the publisher.
- Royalty received by you are peanuts.
Pros and cons of self-publishing-
Pros are
- Publishing requires a maximum of few weeks.
- You don’t require any agent. So money saved.
- Even first-time writers’ books are published.
- Authors have creative control over their books.
- Higher margins with complete royalty are the best part of self-publishing book convertors. Print on demand defeats the need of a warehouse.
- Support in marketing of books through creation of book/author website & trailers.
- High-quality printing and book distribution networks similar to traditionally published authors.
- If your book is time-specific, then your purpose will be served because it will reach the market sooner.
Cons
- You will have to pay for the professional services such as book layouts, editing, illustrations, etc.
Publishers such as White Magic Studios will help you with the whole publishing package other than illustration services as well.
Source: https://bookcoverdesigner.business.blog/2022/09/28/an-overview-of-traditional-and-self-publishing/