Authors On Mission provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs and business professionals in writing, publishing, and promoting their non-fiction books.
Our extensive range of services includes ghostwriting, designing, publishing and dedicated marketing for both the book and the author. We've addressed some of the most frequently asked questions about our services in these FAQs.
Since 2014, we've transformed brilliant ideas into bestselling books. Whether you need help writing it, editing it, designing the cover, or getting it published, our team's got you covered. We tailor our services based on YOU, from crafting your words to landing your book on bestseller lists. Working with over 1,100 successful entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and industry pioneers, we've mastered the art of turning expertise into powerful published works that drive real business results.
We might not be the best fit if:
We want every project to succeed, so we're upfront about this. Let's talk first and make sure we're the right match
Right now, we only work in English. We focus all our skills on creating great English books.
Our primary focus is on informational nonfiction books. We currently do not work on projects outside of that category. This includes children's books, cookbooks, and textbooks.
Each book gets its own dedicated team of specialists who understand your specific field. From business books to memoirs, we match you with experts who know your genre. Plus, our multi-stage editing process ensures consistent quality.
Your information stays protected. We sign NDAs when needed and our team follows strict confidentiality protocols. Your ideas, stories, and business details are safe with us.
From day one, you'll have a dedicated Publishing Manager leading your project. They'll coordinate your team of specialists:
Each team member is chosen based on your book's specific needs.
Each package fits different needs:
All include publishing, marketing, and our bestseller guarantee. Learn more: authorsonmission.com/invest/
Here's a simple guide:
Pick Executive ($35k/30k) if:
Pick Empower ($20k/16k) if:
Pick Elevate ($15k/12k) if:
All paths lead to a bestselling book - it's just about choosing what fits your style. Learn more: authorsonmission.com/invest/
Yes! Pick exactly what you need. Want extra marketing? Need rush delivery? Looking for special formats? Tell us your goals. We'll build a plan that fits. Customize your package at authorsonmission.com/customize.
You can find the complete list of add-on services with descriptions and pricing by following this link.
No, the service package outlined in your signed proposal is structured specifically for optimal publishing success and cannot be modified through service substitutions. However, we do offer a range of supplementary services that can be added to your existing package to further enhance your publishing journey.
Our dedicated support team can provide detailed information about these additional options and help determine which ones might best serve your specific goals. For comprehensive details on all available add-on services, please visit our dedicated add-ons information page, which includes pricing, specifications, and strategic benefits of each enhancement.
You and your chosen writer will establish a communication approach tailored to your preferences. This collaboration might include weekly Zoom meetings to review completed content and plan upcoming sections, or if you have a busy schedule, you may prefer exchanging voice notes via email or WhatsApp.
Your writer follows a structured process with specific milestones. Their first priority is developing a comprehensive outline for your book. Following this foundation, they will methodically craft each element in logical sequence—from the introduction through individual chapters to the conclusion and supplementary materials such as reference lists when applicable.
We adapt our process to accommodate your schedule and communication style while ensuring consistent progress toward your completed manuscript.
The duration of your book project varies based on your selected package:
For our Exclusive Done-For-You service with an assigned angel writer, the process typically spans 3-6 months. This timeline depends on both your availability for collaboration and the specific writing process of your angel writer.
With our Done-With-You package, the timeline is primarily determined by how much time you can personally dedicate to writing. Your commitment level directly influences the completion date.
For more comprehensive information about our writing process and timelines, please review our detailed writing documentation at the link provided.
For those clients who will be working with an angel writer
For those clients doing the writing themselves (coaching included)
For those clients doing the writing themselves along with access to our online resources.
Standard ghostwriters write what you tell them. We dig deeper. Through careful interviews, we pull out the insights you didn't know you had. Your voice stays yours. Your ideas stay yours. But now they're sharper, clearer, and more powerful. Plus, we revise until it's exactly right, at no extra charge.
Our Angel Writing process is uniquely designed for your success:
We need just 3-4 hours of your time per week (or less!). We will handle everything else.
We encourage complete honesty regarding your writer preferences. If you feel the Angel Writers we've initially presented aren't the right match for your project, please let us know immediately. We'll gladly create a new proposal featuring alternative writers for you to interview.
Our commitment is to find your perfect writing partner, and we'll continue the selection process until you're completely satisfied with your choice. Your book deserves the ideal collaborative relationship, and we're dedicated to facilitating that connection.
For Angel Writing, we need about 3-4 hours of your time per week for interviews and feedback. For editing projects, it varies based on your preferences. You decide how hands-on you want to be - we adapt to your schedule.
Yes! Life happens, and we get that. Your project can be paused and resumed when you're ready. We'll keep all your work safe and pick up right where we left off. Just let your Publishing Manager know when you need a break.
This depends entirely on the project you are working on.
Editing projects will depend on the scope of work required.
Angel writing projects will take perhaps 6-9 months from first talk to launch. Your schedule sets the pace. The more time for interviews means faster completion.
Don't worry. It's normal to want changes. Here's what we do:
Every author we work with ends up with a book they're proud of. We make sure of it.
From day one, your dedicated Publishing Manager becomes your trusted guide and champion. They'll lead an expert team committed to transforming your ideas into a book you'll be proud of. Your manager stays by your side at every step, ensuring your vision comes to life exactly as you've dreamed it.
Brilliant minds often overflow with possibilities. In fact, we see this with our most successful authors. If your knowledge and experience could fill several books, this puts you in an excellent position for a book (or perhaps many books) filled with rich content.
Before you invest a penny, we'll work together to pinpoint your most powerful story. Our proven selection process looks at your goals, your unique expertise, and your target audience's needs. Once we identify that perfect match, you'll know exactly why this book needs to be written first.
No, that's what we're here for! Many top authors start with just rough ideas. Here's what happens:
You'll walk away from our first call knowing if your book idea works, and it won't cost you anything.
Self-doubt hits every writer, even the pros who've sold millions. Maybe you're worried about criticism. Or wondering if your ideas matter. We get it. Our team has helped hundreds turn their worries into confidence. Tell us what's holding you back. We'll show you exactly how to move past it.
The length of a book really depends on the author and the topic. We don't have strict rules about how long a book should be, but usually, our authors' books are around 150 pages.
We've found that this length works well for non-fiction books. It's not too long, so it doesn't scare readers away, making them more likely to buy and read the book. At the same time, it's long enough for authors to say what they need to without repeating themselves or adding unnecessary stuff. We believe a book should be just long enough to get its message across well.
No, developmental editing is separate from our standard editing package. This deep-dive editing service is available as an add-on for books that need big-picture restructuring. During our initial manuscript review, we'll help you determine if developmental editing would benefit your book.
Our editing services include multiple revision rounds. Editing/proofreading will include 4 rounds, and developmental editing will include 5 rounds.
Design Process Initiation
The cover design process begins either during or after your manuscript's editing phase, depending on workflow efficiency.
Finalizing Key Elements
We require final versions of the following elements before completing your cover design:
Design Flexibility
Please note that changes to any of these elements after design work has begun will affect the timeline for cover completion. It's important to finalize these details as early as possible to prevent delays in your publication schedule.
Certainly. We will help you choose the best trim size for your book and help you provide the necessary details to your designer.
Design Brief Collection
We'll send you a comprehensive form to capture your design preferences, including:
No Preferences? No Problem
If you don't have specific design preferences, our professional designers will create concepts based on your book's:
Design Selection Process
Commitment to Satisfaction
We continue the refinement process until you are completely satisfied with your book cover, ensuring it perfectly represents your work and appeals to your target readers.
Trim size refers to the physical dimensions of your printed book. Amazon offers several standardized trim sizes for optimal publishing results.
Our Recommendations
For books over 150 pages: 6" × 9" trim size
For books under 150 pages: 5" × 8" or 5.5" × 8.5" trim size
Benefits of Smaller Trim Sizes
Selecting a smaller trim size (5"×8" or 5.5"×8.5") increases your book's thickness and weight proportionally, creating a more substantial feel in the reader's hands.
Reader Benefits
Making Your Decision
If you're uncertain about these dimensions, we recommend measuring books in your personal collection to better visualize how each trim size looks and feels in hand.
Additional Information
For more detailed specifications about trim sizes and their implications for your book, please refer to our formatting information document.
Paper and Ink Choices
Text-Only Books
Books with Images
Financial Consideration
Selecting color printing will increase production costs, which directly impacts your royalty earnings per copy sold.
Cover Finish Options
Making Your Decision
To help with your selection, examine books in your personal collection with different finishes to determine your preference based on both appearance and tactile experience.
Additional Information
For detailed specifications about paper types, color options, and their cost implications, please refer to our formatting information document.
You will retain 100% of the rights to your book. It's that simple. You control how it's printed, shared, and sold. Your book stays yours forever.
You have choices:
You decide. We make it happen.
Yes! Beyond Amazon, we can get your book into Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Apple Books, and 100+ other retailers worldwide. This is available as an add-on service to expand your book's reach.
Publishing your book on IngramSpark makes it available to over 38 online book retailers and libraries, including Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Apple Books. However, this doesn't guarantee placement in physical bookstores. If you want your book stocked in brick-and-mortar stores, you'll need to personally negotiate with each bookstore.
We recommend starting with local bookstores to establish interest, followed by in-person conversations. Bookstores typically want to understand their discount (generally ranging from 35-55%) and return options for unsold copies. Physical retail placement requires additional effort beyond the global distribution service.
Absolutely! We offer two audiobook options:
Our team handles all technical aspects and distribution.
Absolutely, you're welcome to narrate your own audiobook. If you choose this option, our team will handle all technical aspects of post-production, including professional editing, sound optimization, and publishing across major audiobook platforms.
To ensure the highest quality recording, here are some comprehensive guidelines covering industry best practices, technical specifications, and performance recommendations. This personalized approach allows you to add your authentic voice to your work while still benefiting from our professional production expertise.
Once your audiobook is produced and approved, ACX distributes it to major audiobook retailers including Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. The platform handles the digital rights management, sales tracking, and royalty payments.
ACX offers different royalty structures depending on your distribution choices, typically ranging from 25-40% of sales. The platform provides tools to help monitor your audiobook's performance and manage your earnings.
We need to publish at least the Kindle version of your book in order to claim the title on ACX so we can publish your audiobook. Once we’ve uploaded all the edited audio files and hit publish, it takes ACX 10 to 15 business days to do their quality checks and process the audiobook. This process is not something we have any control over. But once it is live, it will automatically be linked to your book’s page on Amazon.
ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange) is Amazon's platform for audiobook production and distribution. It connects authors with professional narrators and producers to create audiobook versions of their works.
Yes, but we recommend limiting post-publication changes to minor corrections only. For optimal results, please finalize all edits before completing the formatting phase.
While we can implement changes after publication, please note:
You'll receive one complimentary copy shipped to your address. Additional copies can be ordered at production cost with no quantity limits.
Yes, upon successful publication, we will send you a complimentary paperback edition of your book as part of our standard service. This author copy will be shipped directly to your provided address once your book is officially available on the market, allowing you to experience your published work in its final physical form.
KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) is Amazon's comprehensive self-publishing platform. It serves as the central hub where you can manage all aspects of your book, including uploading manuscripts, designing covers, setting pricing, tracking sales, and distributing to readers worldwide. This powerful ecosystem provides independent authors with direct access to the global Amazon marketplace.
Once we've collected all the reader reviews included in your package, we'll schedule a Zoom call with you. During this call, we'll transfer your KDP account, provide a complete walkthrough of the dashboard, and help you navigate the management interface.
The platform is user-friendly and intuitive. On the call, we'll also assist you in updating your login credentials to ensure you have exclusive access to your account. If your package includes Global Distribution, we'll additionally transfer your IngramSpark account (the platform we use for worldwide distribution) during this same session.
IngramSpark is a publishing platform similar to Amazon KDP but with a broader distribution network. Many wholesalers and bookstores prefer to order from IngramSpark because they have the option to return unsold books. It's important to note that these returns would be sent to you as the author, not to IngramSpark. This platform allows your book to reach retailers and libraries beyond Amazon's ecosystem.
Amazon typically takes 24 to 72 hours to review, process, and list your book on their marketplace. Once your book goes live, we'll promptly notify you and provide the direct link to your Amazon product page, allowing you to begin sharing and promoting your published work immediately.
During this phase, we activate our specialized internal promotional campaign designed to generate authentic reader reviews and secure the prestigious Amazon #1 Bestseller status for your book. To maximize visibility and encourage downloads, your Kindle edition will be temporarily priced at $0.99 throughout this strategic promotional period.
This discounted pricing applies exclusively to your Kindle version and only for the duration of the campaign, which typically spans 4-6 weeks, though occasionally requires additional time to achieve optimal results. The temporary price reduction serves as a powerful incentive to attract first-time readers who will then provide the valuable reviews that enhance your book's long-term marketplace credibility.
We offer a streamlined process for ordering author copies at preferred wholesale rates. To place your order, please provide:
a. The specific quantity of books you wish to purchase
b. Your complete shipping address for delivery
c. Payment information
For your security, we understand you may prefer not to share credit card details via email. In this case, we're happy to arrange a Zoom consultation with our Head of Client Support who can securely process your payment information. These author copies are perfect for promotional events, personal gifts, or building your professional network.
Author copies are available at privileged wholesale rates—you pay only the direct printing cost plus applicable taxes and shipping fees. The exact per-unit printing cost depends on your book's final specifications (page count, trim size, paper quality, etc.) and will be confirmed once your book is fully published.
While we can provide preliminary estimates during production, the definitive pricing is established only after your book's technical specifications are finalized in the Amazon KDP system. This special author pricing typically represents a significant discount from the retail price, allowing you to maximize returns when using copies for personal sales or promotional opportunities.
We have a standard guide for pricing as well that you can view in the formatting info doc. Please view our pricing guide here.
First, we make sure your book launches strong:
Want to go bigger? Add these extras:
Each option helps more people find and buy your book
Our marketing support includes:
Absolutely! We create social media strategies to promote your book and build your author platform. This includes content planning, posting schedules, and engagement tactics to reach your target audience.
Yes! We help you leverage your bestseller status to land speaking gigs. Our team can:
Many of our authors become sought-after speakers.
Our support continues well after launch. You get:
We're here to ensure your book's long-term success.
Yes! Many authors write multiple books with us. You'll keep your same team if desired, and we'll help build on your existing success. Each book strengthens your expert platform. Plus, you'll receive a 10% discount on your second book.
We use a multi-channel approach to maximize your book's impact:
Plus, we offer premium add-ons like TEDx placement and global distribution to expand your reach even further.
Categories
Keywords
Optimization Strategy
For maximum discoverability, we research both optimal categories and relevant keywords specific to your book's genre. While our initial category selection establishes your book's primary classification, Amazon's system is designed to maximize your book's visibility across potentially relevant categories based on multiple factors. This means your book can be found in categories you didn't directly select, improving your chances of reaching interested readers.
During our promotional period, we strategically market your book to achieve the coveted #1 Bestseller status on Amazon. Your book will be listed in 3 different categories (the maximum Amazon allows) to optimize visibility and ranking opportunities.
Our goal is to generate sufficient sales to secure the #1 position in at least one category, though we frequently succeed in multiple categories. Amazon rankings are calculated based on daily sales volume—your book must outsell the current #1 title in your selected categories on any given day to claim the top spot.
We're proud to maintain a 100% success rate with our promotional strategy. It's important to understand that Amazon rankings fluctuate daily according to sales performance. Achieving bestseller status doesn't necessarily require thousands of sales—it requires strategically outperforming competitors in your specific categories on a particular day. Once your book reaches the #1 ranking, you earn permanent #1 Bestseller credentials.
A book that reaches #1 in any single category or format on Amazon is rightfully considered a bestseller overall, as the book itself is one unified product regardless of how its success is categorized.
If you've purchased our Social Media Kit add-on service, you'll receive over 100 pieces of ready-to-use content designed to promote your book across your social media profiles. These assets include graphics, captions, and promotional templates tailored to your book. However, we don't manage your social media accounts for you.
All provided materials are for your personal use, allowing you to strategically share them on your platforms whenever and however you choose. The kit empowers you with professional marketing materials without requiring you to create them from scratch.
The Marketing Plan process begins with you completing a questionnaire about your book goals and vision. Based on your responses, we'll develop a comprehensive One-Year Personalized Marketing Plan tailored specifically to your book and objectives. This detailed plan provides strategic ideas, actionable steps, and targeted recommendations to help promote your book effectively.
However, it's important to note that the plan serves as a roadmap for your own implementation—we provide the strategy and guidance, but you'll be responsible for executing the marketing activities outlined in the plan. The document is designed to be practical and actionable while aligning with your specific goals and available resources.
If your package includes our podcast service, you'll be connected with our dedicated podcast team after your book is published. We intentionally schedule podcast appearances post-publication to maximize sales potential when you promote your book on these shows.
Our podcast team will coordinate with your availability to secure guest spots on high-quality podcasts (top 10%) that align with your book's genre and target audience. These carefully selected podcasts provide valuable exposure to engaged listeners interested in your book's subject matter, creating promotional opportunities that continue well beyond your initial launch.
While we provide your book with strong initial momentum during the promotional period—typically generating between 200-400 sales—long-term sales performance depends on your continued marketing efforts.
During this promotional phase, we work to secure all the reader reviews included in your package and position your book as a #1 bestseller in its category. However, once this initial push concludes, the ongoing marketing responsibility shifts to you.
Book sales, like any product, require consistent marketing attention to maintain momentum. This is why we offer supportive add-on services such as our Social Media Kit, Press Release distribution, Podcast Booking service, and Personalized Marketing Plan. These tools help you transition from our initial promotional efforts to your own sustainable marketing strategy.
Many authors find that combining these add-on services with their personal promotion efforts helps maintain sales beyond the initial launch period. The actual number of ongoing sales will vary based on factors including genre, target audience, and the extent of your marketing activities.
You can request detailed sales information for your book at any time. Simply contact our team, and we'll promptly download a comprehensive sales report directly from your KDP dashboard showing precise sales figures across all formats and territories.
These customized reports provide valuable insights into your book's market performance, including sales trends, geographic distribution, and format preferences. We're happy to provide this service whenever you need visibility into your book's commercial progress.
We aim for 15+ verified reviews in your first month of launch. These early reviews help new readers find your book and trust its value. We focus on quality feedback from genuine readers.
We study your book's category daily. Our team tracks exactly what drives sales. Then we:
You get clear updates as your book climbs the rankings.
Our proven bestseller strategy includes:
We aim to exceed the sales of the current #1 book in your category to secure your bestseller status.
Sales vary by category and timing. Each category has different requirements to reach #1. Rather than focus on specific numbers, we:
For example, some of our authors like Nicole Smith hit #1 in multiple categories, while others like Vance Hilderman sold over a thousand copies in their first week.
Your book is promoted through our extensive network of active readers, book bloggers, and literary influencers worldwide. This targeted outreach creates visibility among potential readers who match your book's genre and subject matter. In accordance with Amazon's verified purchase policy, these individuals must purchase your book before they can post a review, ensuring authentic feedback.
These reviewers are independent members of the reading public—not our employees or contractors—which means their honest opinions reflect genuine reader experiences. While we facilitate discovery of your book, we have no influence over the content or rating of these reviews, maintaining the integrity and credibility of your book's reception in the marketplace.
Amazon employs sophisticated review verification systems to maintain marketplace integrity. Reviews may be removed for several reasons:
This automated moderation process occasionally removes legitimate reviews. However, please be assured that our promotional strategy anticipates this challenge—we continuously monitor your book's review status and will implement additional promotion efforts to replace any removed reviews, ensuring your book maintains its credibility and visibility in the marketplace.
Amazon KDP Royalties
IngramSpark Royalties (Global Distribution)
ACX Audiobook Royalties
Remember that all royalties are paid directly to your account after the respective platform's payment timeline (typically 60 days for Amazon KDP and ACX, 90 days after quarter end for IngramSpark). Your dashboard on each platform will track your sales and earnings in real-time.
Royalty Structure
Strategic Benefits of Temporary Price Reduction
Temporarily lowering your Kindle price below $2.99 can serve as an effective marketing strategy despite the reduced royalty percentage:
Implementation Approach
This strategy is designed to be temporary (typically one to two weeks), allowing you to return to your standard pricing and higher royalty rate after capitalizing on the promotional benefits.
Author Best Practice
Many successful authors regularly incorporate strategic price reductions as part of their comprehensive marketing plan to maximize both visibility and long-term revenue.
Your royalty payments are processed directly through Amazon's KDP platform and deposited according to their established payment schedule. Royalties are calculated based on your book's sales during each reporting period and typically disbursed approximately 60 days after the end of the month in which the sales occurred.
Amazon transfers these earnings directly to the bank account you've registered in your KDP dashboard. You'll have continuous access to comprehensive sales reporting through your KDP account, allowing you to track performance in real-time across all territories and formats.
ACX payments are made approximately 60 days after the end of the month in which sales occurred and are automatically deposited directly into your bank account.
Royalties are paid quarterly (every three months)
Payment periods are: January-March, April-June, July-September, and October-December. A minimum balance of $25 is typically required before payment is issued. Balances below this threshold roll over to the next quarter.
We focus on your big goals, not just book sales. So, we charge a fee and let you keep all the rights and money from your book. This way, we focus on making sure your book meets your goals, like getting speaking jobs, finding clients, or growing your influence.
A book can help you generate income in many ways. It's a powerful marketing tool that can increase your visibility, establish you as an expert, generate leads for your business, attract clients, secure speaking engagements, promote products, launch new ventures, and much more. Visit our Success Story page to see how our authors are using their books to earn significant income.
Your book works as a powerful business tool in multiple ways:
To recoup your investment, it's important to look beyond direct book sales alone. While calculating exact sales numbers would depend on your package cost and royalty rates, successful authors typically see value in multiple revenue streams:
Beyond Book Sales: Return on Investment Examples
While direct book sales contribute to your return on investment, the true value of publishing often comes through the business opportunities your book creates:
Strategic ROI Perspective
Most successful authors view their books as business tools rather than standalone products. Your book creates opportunities through:
Each of these secondary benefits can potentially generate returns that significantly exceed your initial publishing investment, making the exact number of book sales less critical to your overall ROI calculation.
Your book is more than just a book - it's a business tool. Our authors see returns through:
While we can't promise an exact amount your book will earn, we make sure it becomes a best-seller. Many of our clients have used their best-selling books to boost their personal brand, attracting more clients, speaking opportunities, and publicity, which helps increase their income.
You can change it whenever you’d like.
We don't offer refunds on our publishing packages, but we have several measures in place to ensure your satisfaction:
These quality assurance measures are designed to deliver a final product that meets professional standards and achieves market recognition. Our focus is on delivering exceptional value through comprehensive service rather than offering post-completion refunds.
No, we don't take royalties or offer funding arrangements. Instead, we charge a one-time fee and you keep 100% of your book's earnings. This way, we focus on making your book successful rather than just selling copies, and you maintain complete control of your future earnings.
Formerly BestsellingBook.com
Email: hello@authorsonmission.com
Address: 447 Broadway, 2nd Floor Suite #2056, New York, 10013, United States
Authors On Mission. All rights reserved.