Buying a package before the manuscript is ready is one of the fastest ways to stall production. Use this checklist before checkout — or bring it to a free Author Readiness Call.
Story / argument readiness
- Complete draft (not half a book)
- Beginning, middle, and ending that hold together
- Beta reader or peer feedback noted (even informal)
- You can describe the book in one honest paragraph
Market readiness
- Primary genre and comparable titles
- Target reader (not “everyone”)
- Rough trim size preference for print (if known)
- Ebook vs print priority
Business readiness
- Budget range (AuthorShelf packages run $399–$2,989)
- Timeline expectations (many titles ~6–8 weeks depending on scope and approvals)
- Willingness to approve covers/proofs in a portal on a schedule
File readiness
- Manuscript in DOCX or PDF
- Any series bible, style notes, or sensitivity concerns listed
- Images/permissions if the book includes third-party material
If you are not ready
That is fine. Finish the draft, or book a readiness call for an honest “wait vs proceed” recommendation. AuthorShelf would rather you start clean than force a package into a half-finished manuscript.