Apis Book Novel Packages

Apis Book offers two publishing service packages for authors looking to release novels. Apis is a division of Odyssey Books Press, which focuses on non-fiction books.

We provide comprehensive support for 80,000-word novels, including options for both physical print and ebook formats or an ebook-exclusive track.

We want to offer novel authors who have not secured a publishing deal (which is most of us) a locked-off package of professional help that will allow you to get a solid novel into the world and start to build an author career.

Professional services such as copy editing, interior layout, and cover design are bundled into these flat-rate tiers. We load your book on Amazon KDP, including account setup and file uploads for global distribution.

Package A is if you want an e-book (for reading on Kindles and devices) as well as a book that can be printed using Amazon Print on Demand POD or Ingram Sparks

Package B is PHYSICAL PRINT BOOK & EBOOK TRACK.

PACKAGE A:

NOVEL – EBOOK ONLY TRACK

Cost: R45,000 / $3,000

Timeline: Approx. 3 months

Ideal for authors who want to publish digitally on Amazon.

What's Included:

• Publisher guidance throughout the entire process

• Copy editing - detailed line editing to correct errors and prepare your manuscript

• Professional ebook layout and digital formatting

• Corrections (estimated 3 hours included)

• Front cover design

• Amazon KDP account setup and ebook upload

PACKAGE B:

NOVEL – PHYSICAL PRINT BOOK & EBOOK TRACK

Cost: R65,100 / $5,000

Timeline: Approx. 3 months

Ideal if you want printed copies available, or want readers to be able to order paperbacks directly from Amazon. Based on approx. 80,000 words / 280 pages.

What's Included:

• Publisher guidance throughout the entire process

• Senior copy editor for full editing and proofreading

• Professional layout for both print and ebook formats

• Corrections included

• Full cover design — front, back, spine, and barcode

• Amazon KDP account setup and upload of both print and ebook

• Print-ready PDF files for local or international printing

Note: Package cost does not include the price of printed copies. Printing typically costs $4–$8 (R80–R114) per book depending on location and paper choice.

THE PUBLISHING PROCESS

Here is what happens from the moment you sign up to the moment your book is live:

Copy Editing

Your manuscript is carefully line-edited to correct errors in grammar, spelling, consistency, and style, fully preparing it for the next stage. The package is for a straight copy edit and not a deeper structural edit. This can be quoted as an add-on.

Book Production & Layout

Your book's pages are professionally designed and laid out for both print and digital formats. We commission a cover designer to create mock-ups and work closely with you to produce a cover that proudly represents your work.

Proofreading

A final, meticulous sweep for any remaining errors after copy editing, with a focus on catching formatting issues introduced during production.

Final Corrections & File Preparation

All proofreading corrections are implemented and your files are finalised — including your ebook file and, if applicable, your print-ready PDF.

Distribution

Your ebook is uploaded to retailers such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). If your package includes print, you can then order printers to produce your print edition and arrange distribution through Amazon or POD services.

WHAT YOU NEED TO PROVIDE

To get started, please have the following ready:

• A complete, finished manuscript

• Author biography (a short paragraph about yourself)

• Author photo (high resolution)

• Dedication text (if you'd like one in your book)

• Back cover blurb (we will send you guiding questions to help you write this)

• Cover concept or inspiration (we will guide you through this with mock-ups)

IMPORTANT COST & DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION

Printing Costs (Package B)

The Package B fee covers production and preparation of your print-ready files, but does not include the cost of physically printing copies. Once your files are finalised, you will need to budget separately for printing. Costs typically range from $4–$8 (R80–R114) per book, depending on your location and paper choice.

Distribution Flexibility (Package B)

With your finalised print-ready files, you have full flexibility to print locally or use international Print on Demand (POD) services such as IngramSpark, which allows bookstores and libraries around the world to order your paperback.

BOOK PUBLISHING STAGES

The publishing process is divided into six critical stages, each with its own set of requirements:

Writing: This involves the initial brainstorming, outlining, drafting, and obtaining feedback or critiques. Getting your beta reader reviews, then rewriting. This one is on you!

Editing: This may be working with beta readers, and then moving to professional developmental and copy editing.

Production: This stage requires formatting the interior and cover files. Professional services typically provide the layout for both print and ebook, along with a full cover design that includes a barcode.

Publication & Distribution: This involves setting up accounts on platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark and uploading final files. It also means securing a distributor and getting the books into stores.

Launch: A successful launch requires a strategy for generating reviews, managing book launches, and marketing on social media.

Post-Launch: This continues after the book is live, focusing on PR opportunities, audience growth, and ongoing marketing efforts.

How do Amazon KDP and IngramSpark differ for distribution?

Retail reach: Amazon KDP is primarily designed to sell books on Amazon’s own global marketplaces. While it offers "Expanded Distribution," it is often less effective for reaching physical bookstores. IngramSpark is the industry standard for "wide" distribution, as it makes your book available to the Ingram Book Group catalog, which is used by almost all major bookstores, libraries, and independent retailers.

Bookstore Preferences: Most physical bookstores prefer to order through Ingram rather than Amazon (a competitor). IngramSpark also allows authors to set wholesale discounts and "returnability" status, which are often requirements for a bookstore to consider stocking a title.

Fees: Amazon KDP is generally free to use. IngramSpark has historically charged setup and revision fees, though they have recently moved toward a model that waives these for most users.

What is the difference between developmental and copy editing?

Developmental Editing focuses on the "big picture." The editor looks at story structure, plot holes, character arcs, pacing, and overall "flow" or logic. It often results in significant rewriting or restructuring of the manuscript.

Copy Editing (often referred to as "line editing" or "substantive editing" depending on the depth) focuses on the "mechanics" of the writing. This includes correcting grammar, punctuation, spelling, and syntax, as well as ensuring consistency in style, tone, and facts.

FAQ

Q. What is the difference between a print book and an ebook?

Distribution: Printed books are distributed through local printers or international POD services like Amazon and IngramSpark. Ebooks are sold through digital platforms such as the Amazon Kindle Store.

Cover & Layout: A print book requires a full cover (front, back, spine, and barcode). An ebook only requires a front cover. Both formats need professional layout, but ebooks also require a specific digital conversion to work on e-readers.

Files: Print book production results in print-ready PDF files. Ebook production results in specialised digital files (such as EPUB) for distribution on platforms like Amazon Kindle.

Q. Do I need to have my manuscript finished before I sign up?

Yes, all packages begin with copy editing, so you will need a complete manuscript ready to submit. Please make sure your book is the very best version you can do. This is your final pass through and you need to be sure this is the best you can do.

Q. How long will the process take?

You should allow approximately three months from start to finish for both packages.

Q. Will I own the rights to my book?

Yes. As a self-published author, you retain full rights to your work.

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