Traditional vs. Hybrid Publishers: Which one is right for you?
Understanding the key differences will help you choose the path that best fits your goals, timeline, and creative vision.
I’m regularly asked by clients which is better: traditional or hybrid publishing?
There’s no easy answer (is there ever in life?) but here’s a quick reminder of how hybrid and traditional publishing differ in three key areas:
Funding Model
Author Rights
Access & Representation
1. Funding Model
In hybrid publishing, the author invests upfront to produce the book—editing, design, printing, distribution, etc.
In traditional publishing, the publisher invests in the book and typically offers an advance (which must be “earned out” before the author sees any royalties).
Hybrid authors usually retain a much higher share of royalties.
Traditional publishers retain the bulk of royalties, especially after recouping the advance (which most debut authors never do).
2. Author Rights
Hybrid: The author typically retains copyright and usually has the final say over creative choices.
Traditional: The publisher typically acquires exclusive publishing rights (sometimes copyright itself) and controls key elements like title, cover, and even content. Author input is often invited, but because since the book will be “theirs,” traditional publishers usually get the final say.
3. Access & Representation
Traditional publishers rarely accept direct submissions—they typically require authors to secure a literary agent first, which can add significant time and effort to the process compared to the hybrid model.
Literary agents generally take 15% of any advance and future royalties as compensation for securing and negotiating publishing deals.
Hybrid publishing allows authors to bypass the lit agent layer entirely and move directly into a working relationship that begins with editorial and ends with production. Note: This assumes the hybrid press is reputable.
An Important Note on Self-Promotion
Many authors still assume traditional publishers will handle all the marketing, but that’s rarely the case these days. Whether you publish traditionally or hybrid, authors are expected to actively promote their own books, which can include platform-building, outreach, and publicity. Book tours and large-scale marketing budgets are largely reserved for high-profile authors.
So, no matter your publishing path, building your platform and spreading the word is essential.
Essential questions to ask a hybrid publisher
A good friend who’s been published traditionally and with hybrid presses wisely notes:
“These days, traditional publishers still hold a significant advantage over hybrids in a) getting books into bookstores, b) getting books reviewed in traditional publications (for whatever that's worth!), and c) in approaching media outlets that could send a book on its way to great sales (ie, Today Show, NPR). Attracting such outlets is always a long shot, but traditional publishers usually email blast the right people at such places with a press release.
It's essential for an author to consult with a hybrid about bookstores and reviews. It may not be dispositive — particularly because it's so challenging to get an agent — but it's definitely worth asking.”
The bottom line…
Whether you pursue a traditional publisher or go the hybrid route, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it all depends on your priorities. Traditional publishing is believed to offer prestige but often involves relatively longer timelines, less creative control, and lower royalties. Hybrid publishing offers speed, ownership, and flexibility, but requires a financial investment. And, no matter which path you take, self-promotion is non-negotiable—authors must be their own biggest advocates.
Grow your author platform: Let me feature you and your work in my Writers On Writing series
Whether you're currently working on a book, preparing to launch one, or have already published, I’d love to support you. Through my Writers on Writing series at Writers’ Haven, I offer authors a platform to share their journeys, insights, and stories. Whether you used a traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing model, I’d love to learn your story — and to help you share it with others.
Interested in being featured? Reach out at www.christinewolf.com/contact. I’d be honored to help amplify your voice.
Question: Does it help to have an agent even with a hybrid publishing route?