What exactly does hybrid publishing mean, and is this the right path for your book?
In this episode Holly Kammier, author, co-founder of Acorn Publishing, and Publishing Director of the San Diego Writers Festival offers an inside look at today’s publishing industry.
Holly shares how a career in journalism led to founding one of the country’s respected hybrid publishers, explains what sets hybrid publishing apart from vanity presses and traditional publishing, and offers practical advice for writers who want to successfully publish and market their books.
Whether you’re deciding how to publish your manuscript or looking for smarter ways to market your work, this episode delivers valuable insights.
From Journalist to Publisher
Holly shares how her love of books began in childhood before leading her to journalism, public relations, and eventually writing her own novel.
When she and fellow author Jessica Therrien wanted more control over publishing their books, they founded Acorn Publishing, initially for themselves before opening their doors to other authors.
Today, Acorn boasts a list of more than 200 published books by approximately 150 authors while maintaining its boutique approach.
What Is Hybrid Publishing?
One of the biggest misconceptions in publishing confuses hybrid publishers with vanity presses.
Holly explains the differences between:
- Traditional publishing
- Vanity publishing
- Small presses
- Self-publishing
- Hybrid publishing
She discusses why a reputable hybrid publisher carefully vets manuscripts before accepting them and how authors receive professional publishing services while retaining a significant portion of their rights and royalties.
Why Authors Choose Hybrid Publishing
Holly explains that today’s publishing landscape changed dramatically over the last decade.
Topics include:
- Why traditional publishing became increasingly competitive
- Keeping more ownership and royalties
- Professional editing, cover design, formatting, and production
- Personal publishing coordinators
- Boutique attention for every author
- Long-term publishing partnerships
She also explains why Acorn only accepts a limited number of new authors each month to ensure quality and personalized attention.
Film, Television & Foreign Rights Opportunities
Acorn Publishing’s unique advantages include helping authors pursue opportunities beyond book sales.
Holly discusses:
- Working with a film agent
- Pitching books for television and streaming adaptations
- Foreign rights opportunities
- How independently published books increasingly attract traditional publishers and Hollywood producers
For many authors, publishing independently or through a hybrid press no longer means the end of the journey, but the beginning of an even larger opportunities.
What Holly Looks for in New Authors
If you’re thinking about submitting your manuscript, Holly explains exactly what she wants to see.
She shares:
- Genres Acorn publishes
- Genres they don’t publish
- Why author personality matters
- The importance of quality writing
- What to include in an initial submission
Rather than requiring a formal query package, Holly asks for a brief introduction, your genre, word count, why you wrote the book, and the first three chapters.
Marketing Books in Today’s Publishing World
Publishing is only half the battle.
Holly explains why modern book marketing is shifting away from mass media and toward finding your ideal audience.
She discusses:
- Book boxes and subscription services
- Podcast interviews
- Book clubs
- Building niche audiences
- Word-of-mouth marketing
- Why connecting with the right readers matters more than reaching everyone
Her advice is simple: find the readers who will truly love your book and let them become your biggest advocates.
Behind the Scenes of the San Diego Writers Festival
As Publishing Director of the San Diego Writers Festival, Holly shares what makes the event so special.
She discusses:
- Free classes for writers
- Bestselling keynote authors
- Genre-specific workshops
- Publishing education
- Volunteer-driven organization
- Networking opportunities for writers at every stage
It’s a celebration of books, creativity, and the writing community.
Key Takeaways
- Hybrid publishing combines professional publishing services with greater author ownership.
- Choosing the right publishing path depends on your goals, not someone else’s.
- Successful book marketing focuses on finding your niche audience.
- Independent publishing sometimes leads to film, television, foreign rights, and traditional publishing opportunities.
- Quality writing and professionalism matter as much as a great story.
- Becoming a successful author take many forms.
Memorable Quote
“If you love writing, write. And if you want to get published, find a way to get published and get your work out there.” — Holly Kammier
About Holly Kammier
Holly Kammier is an award-winning author, co-founder of Acorn Publishing, and Publishing Director of the San Diego Writers Festival. Through Acorn Publishing, she helped hundreds of authors professionally publish and market their books while retaining greater ownership of their work. Her forthcoming novel, The Oracle, will launch on Halloween.
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