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Book Design Like a Pro

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Non-Fiction Author Lab

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49 contributions to Non-Fiction Author Lab
Hardcovers - dust jacket or case laminate, matte or glossy
My last half dozen books started life as dust jacket hardcovers. For those I used traditional and hybrid publishers. My most recent book is self published, and it started life as a paperback. But what I realized is that it feels less premium than the hardcovers. Not as good for gifting to clients. So I am releasing a case laminate hardcover via Amazon, since it is easy. I went for matte (vs glossy). But I’m also debating releasing a version with dust jacket through IngramSpark or a small print run company like 48hourbooks or Lulu. Which do you prefer: case laminate or dust jacket? If the former, matte or glossy? If the latter, who do you use to print small runs? Thanks!
1 like • 4d
@Kate Duncan For Amazon, case laminate is the only option, so I figured that was the easy path. I opted for matte to start, but can switch to glossy. I've seen examples of both matte seems better for a business book. But the colors on my cover are very rich, and as you point out, it might it feel a bit subdued. I have been talking with 48hourbooks about doing a cloth cover (no dust jacket) debossed gold foil lettering, and edge printing. That would be really impressive as a gift, but not cheap. My book on Amazon (author copies) is about $7.50. With 48hourbooks, with a 125 copy print run, we'll looking at over $25 a copy. But as a client gift, if might indeed be worth it. Thanks!
0 likes • 3d
@John Sayne thanks for this. I went matte for both. But I can always switch. I find the glossy has a less premium feel, but the colors do pop better.
Book-related legal matters
Hello everyone, could you recommend a few lawyers who specialize in handling book-related legal matters for authors? I'm very serious about publishing, but I'm also quite anxious, and I rarely see anyone offering legal advice before a book is published. My book focuses on spirituality, philosophy, and self-help; although it makes no claims regarding specific outcomes, I feel it would be beneficial to have a lawyer on standby just in case. Additionally, I previously published a book on karma release, but it contained a section mentioning "Body Gratitude: A special healing practice for those living with illness, pain, or fatigue." I have since withdrawn this version from publication, but copies had already been purchased. I would appreciate your advice: does this situation pose any significant legal risks? Or am I simply overthinking things? Since the book was officially published—and copies were sold—it cannot be fully recalled, and I worry that this could lead to lasting consequences down the road. Thank you for your advice, everyone. I truly love the publishing industry, but I also recognize that it comes with a fair amount of inherent risk.
2 likes • 4d
I am a member of https://authorsguild.org which provides free legal support. The cost to join is minimal.
1 like • 4d
@Julie Broad This looks great. Seems like you get a lot of value for a small investment.
🎉 Launch Day Announcement 🎉
So excited to share that another one of our Book Launchers authors has released a book today! 🎉 This isn’t Katie’s first publishing rodeo, but she's stepping into the leadership space, bringing a really unique perspective from her background in teaching. Please join me in celebrating @Katie Trowbridge and the release of her book, "Lead Boldly, Think Deeply: What Courageous Leaders Can Learn from Great Teachers" Let’s show her some love in the comments! 👏
🎉 Launch Day Announcement  🎉
0 likes • 4d
Love the cover! Congrats
This Week’s Launches! 🎉
Two of our incredible Book Launchers authors published their books this week! Let's celebrate Hugh Harris' book "Survival Surrender: Transcending Poverty by Recapturing Your Mind" [book link] and @John Austin 's book "Certain About Uncertainty: Build Resilience, Gain Confidence, and Thrive in a Chaotic World" [book link]. Let’s show them some love in the comments 👏 And if you’ve been thinking about your next read… this might be your sign 👀
This Week’s Launches! 🎉
0 likes • 9d
Woo hoo!! Congrats!
0 likes • 9d
Love the title: Certain Over Uncertainty. Very timely for sure!
Audiobook Distribution
My audiobook is done. Now I need distribution. I’m going directly with ACX non-exclusive for Audible. Who do you recommend for wide distribution? I used Lantern Audio once. Nice white glove treatment but lower royalties, up-front investment, and less control. So I’m debating between Findaway and Author’s Republic - leaning toward the latter. Any strong opinions? Thanks!
0 likes • 26d
@Kate Duncan thank you!
1 like • 25d
I decided to go with Lantern Audio again. They handle everything. Much less stress in exchange for my giving them a slightly bigger slice of the pie. Since I worked with them in the past, they cut the up-front investment. I was quite happy with their work in the past.
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Stephen Shapiro
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293points to level up
@stephen-shapiro-1286
Innovator

Active 1d ago
Joined Sep 1, 2025
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