Publishing FAQs

How do I submit my proposal?


To submit your proposal, please follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the “Submissions” link.

2. Before submitting your proposal, carefully review submission guidelines or requirements provided on the submission page. These guidelines may include formatting instructions, preferred genres, and any specific information we need from you.

3. Prepare your proposal according to our guidelines. This may include a synopsis, author bio, sample chapters, or any other materials we request.

4. Fill out the submission form on our website. This form may ask for your contact information, a brief summary of your proposal, and any attachments you need to upload.

5. Upload your proposal documents as specified in the submission form. Ensure that your files are in the required format (e.g., PDF, Word document).

6. Double-check all the information you’ve entered, and then submit your proposal by clicking the designated button on the submission form.

7. After submitting, you should receive a confirmation message or email acknowledging the receipt of your proposal. This may also include an estimated response time.

8. Our team will review your proposal, and you will be notified of the outcome based on our review process. Be patient during this stage, as it may take up to 12 weeks.


How can I ensure my proposal will be looked at? Should I come in personally to submit my proposal?


Follow these steps to increase the likelihood that your proposal will be reviewed:

1.  Carefully read and adhere to the submission guidelines. This is crucial, as it ensures that your proposal meets our specific requirements.

2. Prepare a well-written and professionally formatted proposal. Ensure it’s free from grammatical errors and typos. A polished proposal is more likely to catch our attention.

3. Tailor your proposal to match our areas of interest and the types of books they publish. Clearly demonstrate how your work aligns with their focus and target audience.

4. Use the submission method specified by us. We only accept online submissions through our website or via email. Personal visits are not welcomed.

5. Follow submission instructions precisely. This includes providing all required materials in the requested format and attaching them where specified.

6.  Write a concise and engaging cover letter that briefly introduces your work, its genre, and why you believe it’s a good fit for the publisher.

7.  If required, submit the requested number of sample chapters that showcase your writing style and the essence of your book.

8. Include a brief author bio that highlights your relevant experience, credentials, and any previously published works.

9. Craft a compelling query letter or synopsis that effectively conveys the main elements of your book, such as plot, characters, and themes.

10. Understand that the review process can take time due to the volume of submissions. Avoid following up too frequently; we will respond when we have reviewed your proposal which may take up to 12 weeks.


If I come personally, will I get to meet with an editor and discuss my proposal?


Typically, we do not conduct in-person meetings for proposal discussions until we have approved a manuscript. Our submission process is primarily conducted through our designated channels, such as our website or email submissions. We appreciate your understanding of this policy, which allows us to efficiently manage and evaluate a high volume of submissions. Once your manuscript is approved, there may be opportunities for further discussions and meetings as part of the publication process.


What does the process of evaluation entail and how long does it take?

Below is the general outline of what it typically entails and the time it may take:

1. Upon receiving a manuscript or proposal, our editorial team conducts an initial review. This review checks for adherence to submission guidelines, genre fit, and basic quality standards. This stage can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on our workload and response times.

2. If the manuscript passes the initial review, it undergoes a more in-depth assessment by an editor or team of editors. They evaluate aspects such as writing style, plot, character development, and overall quality. This stage can take several months, especially if there are multiple submissions in the queue.

3. We may also assess the market potential of the manuscript, looking at factors like target audience, competition, and market trends. This can add extra time to the evaluation process.

4.  If we are interested in the manuscript, we will reach out to the author with feedback, potential revisions, or to discuss terms. This communication can vary in length, depending on the complexity of the negotiations.

5. Once both parties agree on the terms, contract negotiation and finalization can take several weeks to months. This includes legal review, royalty agreements, and other contractual details.

6. After a contract is signed, we typically schedule the manuscript for publication. The timeline for this can vary widely, from several months to over a year, depending on the publisher’s production schedule.

7. The actual publication process, including editing, cover design, printing, and distribution, can take several months. The release date is determined by our publishing calendar and marketing strategy.


Whom shall I contact during the process of evaluation?


Our comprehensive evaluation process typically spans a minimum of 3 months. Throughout this period, we regret to inform you that we will be unable to address any queries, whether via phone, email or in person. Please note that decisions regarding your proposal or manuscript will be communicated at the conclusion of this evaluation period.

It is important to understand that Om Books is not obligated to provide specific reasons if your proposal or manuscript is deemed unsuitable for inclusion in our publishing program. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.


Will my submission be returned?


Please note that we do not take responsibility for returning any submitted materials.


What are the terms and conditions-royalties, territories, number of copies, and distribution network-under which my book will be published?


The specific terms and conditions of a publishing contract, including royalties, territories, the number of copies, and distribution network, will vary depending on the negotiations between you and the publisher. Here’s a breakdown of what each of these terms generally entails:

1. Royalties are the percentage of revenue that the author earns from each sale of the book. The exact royalty rate can vary widely and is subject to negotiation. It’s typically outlined in your publishing contract. 

2. Territories refer to the geographical regions where the publisher has the rights to distribute and sell your book. It could be limited to specific countries or regions, or it might be worldwide. The territory is also specified in the contract. We usually take world rights.

3. The distribution network outlines where and how your book will be made available to readers. This can include bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and more. The specifics of the distribution strategy should be detailed in the contract.


Can I send a proposal again if I have been rejected once?

Please refrain from resubmitting a previously rejected proposal.


Can I send my proposal elsewhere while I have submitted it to you? Can my manuscript be evaluated by Om Books and other publishing house simultaneously?


While we appreciate your interest in submitting your proposal to Om Books, we kindly request that you refrain from submitting the same proposal to multiple publishers simultaneously. We do not encourage or appreciate multiple submissions. Our submission guidelines require exclusive consideration during the evaluation process. 

Please wait for our response to your submission before exploring opportunities with other publishing houses.