Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about working with Paperclip Press—from our process and services to investment and timelines.

1. Is Paperclip Press a traditional publisher or self-publishing platform?

Neither. We are an independent publishing house. We curate, edit, design, publish, and distribute selected works — with the care of a boutique press and the reach of a global one. We don’t offer vanity or pay-to-publish services.

2. Do I need an agent to submit my work?

No agent needed. We’re here for the un-agented, the overlooked, the never-submitted, and the once-burned-by-traditional.

3. Do you pay authors?

We don’t pay upfront advances. Instead, authors retain a majority share of royalties, receive contributor copies, benefit from global distribution, and gain long-term visibility through our platform and partnerships.

4. Can I submit if I’ve already been published?

Absolutely. We love seasoned voices. Just bring us the story you couldn’t place anywhere else — the one too raw, too weird, or too true.

5. Can I submit if I’ve never been published?

Please do. If you have a sharp story, and can follow a deadline — we’re listening.

6. Will I retain rights to my work?

Yes, you keep your copyright. But for all anthologies, we ask for exclusive print and digital rights in perpetuity for the published version in Paperclip Atlas or Paperclip Kitchen. This allows us to continue selling and distributing the collection long-term.

7. Can I submit previously published work for anthologies?

No. We only accept original, unpublished work. It must not appear in any public blog, newsletter, anthology, or print publication.

8. Can I submit multiple pieces?

Please stick to one story per anthology call. Quality over quantity. And if you change your mind mid-process, let us know.

9. Will I get feedback if my story isn’t selected?

Due to volume, we can’t guarantee personalized feedback. But confirmed participants will have access to prompts, guidance, and optional sprints — so you won’t leave empty-handed.

About Paperclip Press
Publishing Services & Process
Writing Residencies
Ghostwriting Services
Rights & Royalties
Timeline & Logistics
Paperclip Press is a selective boutique publisher specializing in premium publishing services for high-profile clients. We work with entertainers, pro athletes, thought leaders, executives, and public figures to develop books that extend influence and build lasting legacy. Unlike traditional publishers, we provide comprehensive, customized publishing partnerships where clients invest in services while retaining creative control and majority ownership.
We combine the editorial rigor and design excellence of traditional publishing with the author control and economics of independent publishing. You retain 75-85% of royalties (compared to 10-15% in traditional deals), own your intellectual property, and maintain creative control—while receiving white-glove service throughout the entire process.
Very. We limit our client roster to ensure each project receives dedicated attention, strategic focus, and the resources it deserves. We evaluate both the market potential of the book and alignment with our editorial vision and capabilities.
We work on a consultation-first basis. All prospective clients begin with a complimentary consultation call where we discuss your project, goals, and whether there's strong alignment. If you have a completed manuscript or a book concept, request a consultation through our Submit page.
Our comprehensive publishing services include:

・Strategic ghostwriting and authorship development
・Writing residencies and intensive creative retreats
・Developmental and line editing
・Professional cover design and interior layout
・Distribution through major retailers, libraries, and specialty channels
・Marketing strategy and author platform development
・Launch campaigns and media coordination
・Ongoing royalty reporting and management

Services are customized based on your project scope and needs.
Our publishing partnerships are designed as comprehensive programs to ensure the best possible outcome for your book. However, we can discuss your specific needs during the consultation and customize a package accordingly.
Yes, if you have a compelling story or expertise worth sharing. Many of our clients are publishing their first book. What matters most is the strength of your platform, the marketability of your concept, and your commitment to the process.
Our Immersions are intensive writing residencies in stunning global locations—from Mongolia to Bhutan to Norway. These experiences provide dedicated time, inspiring environments, and creative infrastructure for writers to complete ambitious projects away from daily distractions.
Writers who need focused time and space to complete a manuscript, whether you're developing a book with us or working independently. Residencies work well for both conceptual development and intensive revision phases.
No. Residencies are open to serious writers regardless of whether you're publishing with us. However, many residency participants do become publishing clients.
Accommodations, workspace, select meals, and logistical support. You'll have the time and space to write without distractions, surrounded by inspiring landscapes and like-minded writers.
Strategic ghostwriting goes beyond just writing—it includes concept development, narrative structure, voice development, and market positioning. We work closely with you to extract your expertise, stories, and insights, then transform them into a compelling manuscript that authentically represents your voice and vision.
Typically 15-25 hours over the course of the project, spread across interviews, review sessions, and approval checkpoints. We design the process to fit your schedule while ensuring the book authentically represents your voice and expertise.
That's entirely your choice. Many clients publicly acknowledge their writing partner; others keep the arrangement confidential. We're comfortable with either approach and maintain strict confidentiality agreements.
Yes. During your consultation, we'll discuss your project needs and can share relevant writing samples that demonstrate style, voice, and subject matter expertise appropriate to your book.
You do. You retain 100% ownership of your intellectual property, including all subsidiary rights (foreign, film, audio, etc.).
75-85%, depending on your specific publishing agreement. This is significantly higher than traditional publishing (10-15%) or even most hybrid publishers (50-60%).
You'll receive quarterly royalty statements and payments. Royalties are calculated based on net sales across all distribution channels (print, ebook, audio). We handle all reporting and payment processing.
You retain all subsidiary rights. If opportunities arise for film adaptation, foreign translations, or other licensing deals, you control those negotiations and keep 100% of those revenues.
Typically 6-12 months from project start to publication, depending on whether you're starting with a concept (requiring ghostwriting) or a completed manuscript.

A typical timeline:
・Ghostwriting (if needed): 4-6 months
・Developmental editing: 6-8 weeks
・Design and production: 6-8 weeks
・Distribution setup: 2-3 weeks
・Pre-launch marketing: 4-6 weeks
・Publication and launch: Ongoing
Possibly, depending on your manuscript's readiness and our current capacity. Rushed timelines can compromise quality, so we'll discuss what's realistic during your consultation.
We are based in Silicon Valley and New York, but we work with clients globally and most of our process is conducted remotely via video calls, email, and collaborative platforms. In-person meetings can be arranged for select clients and projects but aren't required.
You retain all subsidiary rights. If opportunities arise for film adaptation, foreign translations, or other licensing deals, you control those negotiations and keep 100% of those revenues.