Can I Publish a Book Without an Agent?
A practical guide to publishing paths that do not require literary representation.
Many aspiring authors assume that finding a literary agent is a required step toward becoming a published author. While an agent can be helpful in certain parts of the publishing industry, you do not necessarily need one to publish a book.
Authors today have several paths to publication. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, timeline, and how much support you want throughout the process.
What Does a Literary Agent Do
A literary agent represents an author and presents the author’s manuscript to traditional publishing houses. Agents may also help negotiate contracts, discuss publishing rights, and guide authors through the traditional publishing process.
In most cases, agents earn a percentage of the author’s income from the book rather than charging an upfront fee. However, finding representation can be competitive. Authors may need to send query letters to numerous agents, and even a strong manuscript may not receive an offer of representation.
An agent can be valuable if your goal is to pursue a contract with a traditional publisher that generally does not accept submissions directly from authors. Still, this is only one way to publish.
Can You Submit a Book Without an Agent
Yes, you can publish a book without a literary agent.
Some publishing companies accept manuscripts directly from authors. Self-publishing and hybrid publishing also allow writers to move forward without first securing representation.
Dorrance Publishing accepts manuscript submissions directly, so authors do not need a literary agent to have their work considered. After submitting a manuscript, an author can learn whether the book fits Dorrance’s content guidelines and may receive a customized publishing-services proposal.
This direct approach can make the publishing process feel more accessible, particularly for first-time authors who are unsure how to contact an agent or prepare a query package.
Publishing Options That Do Not Require an Agent
There is more than one way to bring a book to readers. Understanding the differences can help you select a path that fits your needs.
Self Publishing
With self-publishing, the author manages the publication of the book independently. This may include arranging editing, cover design, interior formatting, printing, distribution, and promotion.
Self-publishing can give authors considerable control over their work and schedule. However, managing each part of the process can require significant time, research, and coordination.
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid publishing combines certain elements of traditional and self-publishing. Authors work with publishing professionals while remaining involved in important decisions about their books.
This option may appeal to writers who want professional assistance but do not want to wait for a literary agent or pursue the traditional submission process. Dorrance offers a guided publishing path that may include editing, cover creation, interior design, promotion, distribution, and fulfillment, depending on the author’s publishing-services agreement.
Smaller or Independent Publishers
Some independent publishing companies accept submissions directly from authors. Their requirements vary, so it is important to review each company’s submission guidelines before sending a manuscript.
What Are the Benefits of Publishing Without an Agent
You Can Submit Your Work Directly
You do not have to spend months researching agents and sending individual query letters before exploring your publishing options. Instead, you may be able to submit your manuscript directly to a publisher that accepts author submissions.
You May Have More Input
Depending on the publishing arrangement, authors may participate in decisions involving the book’s cover, design, production, and promotion.
You Can Receive Professional Guidance
Publishing without an agent does not mean you must complete every step alone. A full-service or hybrid publisher can provide professional assistance during production and help an author understand what comes next.
You Can Choose a Path That Fits Your Goals
Not every author has the same definition of a successful publishing experience. Some want to share a family history. Others want to publish a novel, memoir, poetry collection, children’s story, or educational book. Publishing without an agent gives authors additional ways to move their projects forward.
Do You Need a Finished Manuscript?
A completed and carefully reviewed manuscript can make it easier for a publisher to consider your work. Before submitting, take time to read through the entire manuscript and address obvious spelling, grammar, structure, and consistency concerns.
Dorrance accepts several types of manuscript files, including Microsoft Word documents and PDFs. Authors who need help developing their work can also explore writing support before publication.
If your book is still an idea or an early draft, you may benefit from writing support before moving into editing, design, and production.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Publisher
Publishing a book is an important decision. Before signing an agreement, ask questions such as:
- What services are included?
- What costs will I be responsible for?
- Who will own the rights to my work?
- How will royalties be calculated?
- How long could the publishing process take?
- Where may the finished book be available?
- What promotional or distribution services are included?
- Who will be my point of contact during production?
Read the complete agreement carefully and make sure you understand the services, costs, responsibilities, and rights involved. A reputable publishing company should clearly explain its process and give you an opportunity to ask questions.
Is Publishing Without an Agent Right for You
You may want to consider publishing without an agent if you:
- Want to submit your manuscript directly to a publisher
- Prefer a more guided publishing experience
- Want professional assistance with production
- Do not want to rely entirely on the traditional agent-query process
- Are comfortable investing in publishing services
- Want to remain involved in decisions about your book
An agent may still be appropriate if your primary goal is to secure a traditional publishing contract with a company that only reviews agented submissions. Neither route is automatically right for every writer.
Take the Next Step With Your Manuscript
You do not have to secure a literary agent before exploring publication. With several publishing routes available, authors can choose an approach based on their needs, expectations, and vision for their books.
For more than 100 years, Dorrance Publishing has helped authors navigate the journey from manuscript to finished book. Authors can submit their work directly for review and learn more about the publishing services available for their projects.
If your manuscript is ready, submit it to Dorrance Publishing to begin exploring your next step.