In a more traditional book shepherd and client situation, it is unlikely that the book shepherd is going to handle much if any of the design or editorial work involved in publishing a book. In fact, many book shepherds can't do the work themselves, having never learned book design, eBook conversions, print requirements, or even editing. Although some have a general understanding of self-publishing processes, especially for Amazon KDP, they still have to hire a team for the rest of the work. A large majority of shepherds are essentially just project managers or freelance agencies with a small crew.

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Of course, there is nothing wrong with hiring a team. Even I typically suggest hiring a separate cover designer. But where this becomes a problem is that book shepherds often charge fees to contractors and clients alike for the work of others, raising the costs in order to earn their part of the income, and sometimes creating something of a communication barrier between contractors and authors because they're not being transparent about costs, skill levels, or other details.​

 

My model is to get paid to do the actual work! As your book shepherd, I can explain the ins and outs of publishing and distribution while also helping on editing, designing, eBooks conversions, and so much more. This multi-services approach helps find the balance between cost with quality. Additionally, this approach helps maintain tighter control over the momentum and direction of any given book project. This approach also helps foster a better relationship between publishing consultant and the author. As a result, I'm able to very specifically cater everything around designs, product page optimizations, edits, and more to your project with an understanding of the big picture and the smaller details.

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Of course, you don't have to hire RHP for multiple services, but it often works out in your favor in terms of budget and making the process as smooth as possible.

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While I take a multi-service approach, I also often have good reasons to bring in other contractors. I usually suggest a cover designer, for example, and if I feel like I'm not the right fit as your editor, I'm going to let you know and send a referral that might be a better fit for your specific book. When I do send referrals to you, you negotiate and pay them directly, and I will never charge you or them imaginary fees for having made that connection. I often work with a small network of freelancers that are reliable and professional, so the process remains as headache-free as possible. The only thing you'll ever pay me for is the time I actually spend.

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Services RHP currently suggests outsourcing:

• Cover​ design. I will sometimes handle this, but often it's our recommendation that we bring in a dedicated cover designer. I know some great ones, so please just ask!

• Custom illustration/graphic design. This is about fit, so while we have some referrals for you, sometimes it's really important to spend time searching for the right person.

• Extensive marketing services. I canhelp with your Amazon categories, keywords, product pages, author page, etc., and I can give you some pointers, but I don't provide extensive marketing services. I don't currently have a referral for this, but I can work with you to find someone that fits your project.

• Extensive writing services. Although I spent many years as a ghostwriter, I don't currently offer writing services. I can, however, help with developmental editing if I'm a good fit for the book.

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