FAQ
Where are you based?
We’re proudly based in Greater London, but our team and authors are spread far and wide.
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BLKDOG’s headquarters are in Greater London, and we work closely with freelance editors across the UK. Our location doesn’t affect where our authors are based, as we work with writers from all over the world.
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Do you only publish on Amazon?
Not at all - we distribute through a wide range of major retailers.
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We believe in giving our authors the widest reach possible. We don’t just publish with Amazon. Our books are also available through Apple, Barnes & Noble, Baker & Taylor and many other trusted distribution channels. We want our authors’ books to be accessible to readers everywhere.
Are there any genres you won’t accept?
We keep an open mind but have a few clear boundaries.
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Yes. We do not publish erotica. We have no issue with sex scenes, strong language, or controversial themes, but we don’t work with titles where erotica is the primary focus.
What services do you offer?
We handle every stage of the publishing process, from formatting to distribution.
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When you publish with us, your manuscript is in safe hands. We’ll turn your hard work into a professional, high-quality book that’s ready for readers to enjoy. Our publishing package includes:
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• ISBN registration
• Global distribution
• Professional formatting
• Professionally designed cover created by our trusted designers
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Before we can publish your book, your manuscript needs to be ready from a content perspective. We invest in every title we publish, covering the full cost of production. To ensure your work reaches a professional standard, we ask authors to contribute towards the cost of our trusted third-party editors, who will refine your manuscript and prepare it for publication.
Do you charge authors to publish their books?
No hidden costs or upfront fees - we believe in fair, transparent publishing.
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No. The only cost to authors is contributing to a professional third-party edit. We cover everything else, and we never ask for payment from our authors.
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Can I use an editor who isn’t linked to BLKDOG?
To maintain quality and consistency, we work exclusively with our trusted editors.
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To ensure the best possible outcome for your book, we ask that all manuscripts are proofread and edited by our trusted third-party editors. This helps us maintain a consistent standard of quality, smooth communication, and reliable timelines throughout the publishing process. It also means we can be confident your book is fully prepared for the next stage of production.
Can you publish my title as a paperback?
In most cases, yes - though some titles work best as digital editions.
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Yes. Most titles can be published in paperback. However, certain works such as poetry collections or short stories may not be suitable in print. In those cases, you’ll retain full rights over the physical edition of your book.
Any advice when submitting?
Follow these simple tips to make sure your submission stands out for the right reasons.
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A few tips to help your submission go smoothly:
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• Let us know if you’re submitting to other publishers at the same time. If your book is accepted elsewhere, please inform us straight away.
• Use basic formatting: double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12pt font, equal margins, and submit as a Word or Mac equivalent file. Avoid using tabs for indents.
• Keep your synopsis simple. Don’t oversell or undersell; just be clear and concise.
No one is buying my self-published book – can you help?
Yes, we’re open to working with previously self-published authors who want a fresh start.
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If your self-published book hasn’t found the audience you hoped for, you’re not alone. Many authors find that working with an independent publisher helps them reach new readers and present their work more professionally. While we can’t guarantee sales, we can provide the structure, support and distribution that give your book the best possible chance of success.
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We’re open to considering previously self-published titles; however, if we decide to publish your book, the original version would need to be delisted for the duration of your contract. You would also need to work with our trusted third-party editors, and a new cover design would be required, as distributors only accept one version of each title.
What level of sales can you guarantee?
We can’t promise numbers, but we’ll give your book the best chance to succeed.
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We’re often asked about sales expectations, and we understand why. If a publisher claims they can guarantee a certain number of sales, we’d love their lottery numbers for next week! The truth is, no one can make that promise, and we wish we could. Some of our titles sell exceptionally well, while others only sell a handful of copies.
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We actively support our authors with marketing and promotion, but publishing success is a partnership. Authors play a key role in building their own brand and connecting with readers. To help, we provide a comprehensive guide full of practical advice on social media and self-promotion.
We’re always here to offer guidance, share insights and celebrate your success along the way.
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Will I see my book in my local bookshop?
It’s possible, but it depends on how the book trade operates.
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Bookshops rarely buy stock outright. Instead, they take books on consignment, returning unsold copies to the publisher. This system carries huge financial risks, which only the biggest publishers can absorb.
That said, all our titles are registered with Nielsen and Bowker and are available for bookshops worldwide to order. Increasingly, bookshops are open to working with print-on-demand publishers, and many stores maintain a “local authors” section. In those cases, private arrangements may be possible. Our approach here is one of optimistic caution.
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How often do you pay your authors?
We pay our authors regularly and reliably.
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Quarterly.
Do you have a question we haven’t answered?
We’d love to hear from you.
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Get in touch - we’re always happy to help.