Every writer has desire to publish a book, but for most, that desire feels out of reach. It can be exhausting to sift through all the options available for publishing to figure out where to submit your work. If you are searching for a publisher that focuses primary on personal storytelling and nurtures new writers, then Woodcreek Publishers would be an ideal match. In this best guide, we will see who Woodcreek Publishers are, what their requirements are, and how you can submit your manuscript for publication.
Who Are Woodcreek Publishers?
Woodcreek Publishers is a privately held publishing house that has established itself as credible in publishing books well written but also motivational and mission-driven. They publish diverse but value-based books. They also publish Christian books, children’s books, spiritual biographies, inspirational fiction and non fiction books of personal and ethical growth as well as devotionals.
The difference Woodcreek has compared to most other publishers is the direct author-publisher relationship the author has with the company. Rather than a large conglomerate with corporate policies that ignore individuality, Woodcreek strives to learn about writers and provide them with the editorial and marketing guidance needed to do more than survive after publishing a book.
What Type of Books Does Woodcreek Publish?
It is vital to know what kind of material Woodcreek is looking to receive prior to submission. They are particularly open to Christian value-based books or inspirational, family-message-based content. Fiction genres of romance, historical fiction, literary fiction, and young adult fiction are all acceptable—if they have inspirational or redemption. For non-fiction, biographies, spiritual growth books, devotionals, personal development, and Christian living content are preferred.
Woodcreek is unlikely to consider manuscripts that are graphic, violent, or substantively controversial. They prefer stories that are hopeful, truthful, and based on moral or spiritual reality. If your book fits into this tone and mission, then it may be a strong candidate for submission.
Why Publish with Woodcreek?
Authors prefer Woodcreek for publishing a number of solid reasons. First among these is their support throughout the publishing process. From initial submission to final publication and marketing, they walk their authors through step by step with transparency and motivation. This comes particularly in handy for new writers who are unfamiliar with the publishing process.
Another major plus is the options of publishing models Woodcreek offers. While they do offer traditional publishing contracts, they also have hybrid and aided publishing contracts. This allows authors some freedom based on their skill set, preferences, and resources. Hybrid model is author and publisher both share the cost. The author usually gets higher royalties and more creative control. Woodcreek Publishers make sure auther books reach readers all over the world through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other major sellers. They also offer marketing tips to help authors build their brand and grow their audience.
Preparing Your Manuscript
Before submitting your manuscript to Woodcreek—or any publisher—you are absolutely required to have your work completed and edited. Most authors have the urge to send in the initial draft, but this is rarely advisable. Instead, step back and complete your manuscript through to the end, revise once, and revise again.
Self-editing is superior, but still superior to that is professional critique. Sloppy words with carefully crafted narratives can deliver powerful impacts. Let trusted beta readers go through your manuscript and give honest feedback. It’s also a good idea to hire Woodcreek Publishers editor to check grammar, punctuation, structure, and flow. A well edited manuscript shows you are serious and professional about your writing.
Understanding Submission Guidelines
Each publisher has specific submission rules and it’s necessary to follow them exactly. Woodcreek Publishers give their requirements on their website so review these carefully before submitting. Expect to send query letter, summary, and either the full or half part of your manuscript, depending on your book’s category.
Use a professional format and double-spaced lines for all documents. Include page numbers use clear file names and label everything properly to appear professional.
Not following these rules—even with a great book—can result in your submission being rejected unread. They will probably need a query letter, a summary of your book, and either the first half of the book or the complete manuscript, depending upon the category.
This part matters. Your submission should be printed and formatted with readable fonts
Page numbers, clear file names, and labels all help you make a good, professional impression.
Failing to follow the guidelines—no matter how wonderful your book is—can have the submission rejected before being read.
Writing a Strong Query Letter
Your query letter is your formal introduction to the publisher and often is the deciding factor in whether or not they even look at your manuscript. Your query letter must be a one-page letter, short, compelling, and specifically addressed to Woodcreek.
Open with the introduction of your book with a hook—two or so sentences that provide the essence of your story in a way that will get their attention. Since you are writing to win, your pitch should consist of no more than five to six lines. Follow with a concise paragraph detailing the plot of your book (fiction) or purpose (non-fiction), word count, and target readership. Indicate if it’s a series or a standalone. Include a short author bio highlighting your credentials, previous publications, and why you wanted to write this book. If you have an audience—e.g., a blog, podcast, or active social media following—don’t hesitate to mention it.
Wrap up with a measure of thanks and your contact info. The tone should always be polite and businesslike, but by no means too relaxed or lordly.
Submitting Your Work
When you’ve had a chance to write your manuscript along with the synopsis and query letter, and ensuring all are aligned with Woodcreek’s submission policies, it is time to send it all in. Woodcreek accepts submissions via email or an online form so sending your documents shouldn’t be a hassle at all, be sure to visit their website or reach out for your preferred method of contact. Once you have submitted your work, expect to receive an acknowledgement message confirming receipt. If it doesn’t come, feel free to follow up after a week to check in if it was received at all. Bear in mind that time scales vary, but most publishers take between four and twelve weeks to respond. Don’t send a series of follow-up emails within this time. Give them sufficient time to consider your work carefully.
The Review Process and What Happens Next
If Woodcreek is interested in your book, they may call or email asking for the full manuscript if they received only sample chapters initially. They will then read through the full manuscript and determine whether or not it is a good fit for their publishing schedule.
If at all they do decide to offer you a contract, you will be shown a publishing agreement that details the terms. Make sure you thoroughly go over the agreement. Don’t hesitate to question them or even consult a publishing attorney if you need more explanation. Woodcreek is reputed to be an ethical and honest firm, but it’s still your responsibility to know what you’re signing.
In some cases, if the manuscript is not yet complete but shows promise, they may provide revisions. Listen to this feedback. Editors are employed by you—they want your book to be a success as you do. A willingness to collaborate and refine your manuscript shows maturity and professionalism.
Handling Rejection Gracefully
If your manuscript is rejected, don’t take it personally. Rejection is a part of the publishing process and occurs to even the best writers. It’s true that many best-selling authors were rejected several times before they found the appropriate publisher for their book.
If you’re fortunate to receive feedback with your rejection, edit and improve your manuscript using it. Otherwise, submit to other publishers or literary agents. Don’t give up. Each rejection moves you closer to the publisher best suited to your voice and vision.
Additional Tips for Success
There are a few things that you can do to make yourself a probable bet to be published by Woodcreek. Start out by reading some of the books that they have already published so that you can ascertain their style, tone, and themes. This will give you valuable insight into what is appealing to their editorial team.
Establish your author platform as soon as possible. Publishers more and more want to have authors who will promote their books themselves. Being active with a blog, social media, or an audience in your church or community can be a plus.
Join writing groups, go to literary workshops, and meet other writers—particularly those who have been published by Woodcreek. Word of mouth or referrals can prove useful in the long term.
Most of all, be humble, be teachable, and be passionate about your writing.
Conclusion
Publishing with Woodcreek Publishers is not only a reality but also a richly rewarding experience for authors who are writing from the soul. Their commitment to purposeful publishing and to authors makes them a shining star in today’s fast-paced publishing environment.
By developing an edited manuscript, a strong submission, and finishing off the process with care and professionalism, you greatly improve your chances of being selected. If you are an author of an inspirational novel, a religious memoir, or a devotional work that will encourage others, Woodcreek could be the perfect partner to help you get your message delivered to the world.
So go on and make the leap. Cut that manuscript, write that query letter, and see your book off into the world. You never know—it might just find a home at Woodcreek Publishers.