This cheat sheet is your roadmap to understanding how everyone—from literary agents and editors to publishers and booksellers—plays a vital role in your book's journey.
As the most essential player in the traditional publishing process, you should know who your team mates are and what they’ll do for you.
We know publishing can feel like a complex machine, but you’ve already tackled the hardest part: writing the book.
Now, it’s about knowing who to lean on at the right time and building connections along the way. This cheat sheet will help you navigate the process step by step so you feel knowledgeable about what’s to come for you as you take this step toward traditional publishing.
Learn who’s involved, when they’re involved, and what they do to get your book into readers’ hands. From your literary agent who champions your work to the editor who shapes your manuscript, and the marketing team that ensures your book reaches its audience, this roadmap outlines the key players and their roles.
If you’re overwhelmed by the querying process, we’re here to help.
Authors looking for personalized guidance through every stage of the querying process should join our 1:1 workshop, From Query to Contract. Whether you’re ready to start querying and don’t know where to begin or are struggling with rejection and need a plan to move forward, this workshop is for you. We’ll offer you personalized feedback for writing your query letter and expert support to approach your querying process with intention and strategy.
More Ways Our Galaxy Can Support You
Publishing Services
From developmental editing to query letter critiques and beyond, we’ve got all the services you need to write, publish, and organically market your book.
Author Workshops
Whether you’re seeking a literary agent to traditionally publish or going all-in on self-publishing a book, our workshops are designed for every stage of the journey.
Free Resources
We’ve created free workbooks, guides, and templates to guide you through key topics related to the writing and publishing process.