How can I help?
Explore my services here and book a complimentary clarity call so we can get to know each other before we dive into working together. Oftentimes a quick free call or an hour paid consult can save you thousands of dollars and lots of wasted time sorting out options on your own.
- Complimentary Clarity Call
- Strategy Power Hour
- Publishing & Marketing Consultation
- Book Production Spot Check
- Manuscript Review
- Ongoing Retainer-Based Support
Expert Support for Independent Authors
I provide tailored, actionable support to independent authors writing creative nonfiction and literary fiction as well as professionals writing business-focused books. Whether you need help navigating self-publishing options, strengthening your manuscript, or crafting a book that builds your brand and connects with readers, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Carla King is an
IngramSpark Trusted Expert with over 25 years experience in independent publishing. She is also a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors, the Publishing Professionals Network, and the American Society of Journalists and Authors
Complimentary Clarity Call
If you have a quick question or if you want to explore working with me, book a clarity call. I’ll listen to your goals, assess where you are in your publishing journey, and recommend the best next steps—whether that’s a quick answer to a technical problem, connecting you with another professional, joining a publishing program, taking a course, or any other path that fits your needs and budget.
Did I help you solve a problem? The Venmo QR code will link you to my tip jar. Thanks so much!
Carla's Gratitude Jar
Book Strategy Power Hour
In this focused 60-minute live session, we’ll tackle your biggest publishing challenges and goals. Send me your questions in advance, and I’ll come prepared with tailored advice, resources, and recommendations to help you publish successfully—on time and within budget.
This may be all the help you need to get you pointed in the right direction!
Book your Power Hour here ($350)
How My Consulting Works
My consulting services combine live sessions with substantial work completed outside of calls.
This includes research, analysis, planning, documentation, and written guidance tailored to your specific project. Much of the value I provide happens off-call to ensure efficiency and reduce your overall cost.
Billing
Billing reflects total time spent on your project, including both live consultations and off-call work. This is standard for professional consulting services.
Scope of Work
Publishing is a multi-step process involving many decisions and moving parts. Initial consultations and planning documents are foundational and often expand as your project progresses.
Deliverables
You may receive customized action plans, checklists, worksheets, vendor recommendations, and strategic guidance based on your goals and manuscript.
Refunds
Due to the nature of consulting work, which includes time, analysis, and intellectual property delivered in the form of strategy and documentation, fees for completed work are non-refundable.
Acceptance
By booking services and submitting payment, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
See my complete Terms of Service here.
Publishing & Marketing Consulting
If you need further assistance getting your book prepared for launch or relaunch, help with marketing and promotion, website and email list strategy, help determine your imprint name, business model (LLC, business license), purchase ISBNs, obtain Library of Congress registration, distribute ARCs, check metadata, copyright, and other publishing, business, or marketing tasks, book a block of three hours at a time. Time includes both live consultation and off-call work such as research, planning, and documentation $750 total.
Book Production Spot Check
Got a finished book and you're not sure if everything is perfect? Before you upload it for distribution, let me perform a thorough review to catch any overlooked details and ensure everything is in place. This final formatting check gives you the confidence that your book is polished, professional, and indiscernible from a Big 5 published book. Let's make you ready to go live with confidence! $497 total.
Manuscript Review
A high-level analysis of structure, story, and publishing options. It is a great way to figure out what your next steps might be for editing, organization, and publication. I'll help you map out a path. $1500 total.
Ongoing, retainer-based support?
This tailored process can include editing, audience evaluation, strategic planning, early marketing, building your team, launch planning, distribution decisions—whatever it takes to move your project forward.
You’re not just getting time on my calendar—you’re getting strategy, planning, research, and execution support both during and outside of our sessions.
Let’s start with a complimentary Clarity Call to see if we're the right fit for each other.
I’m excited to partner with you and help make your publishing goals a reality!
