- Paige Ross
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Palmetto Publishing vs. Atmosphere Press
Table of Contents
When it comes to hybrid publishing, choosing the right partner can make all the difference in turning your manuscript into a successful, professionally published book. In this article, we’ll compare Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press, two well-known hybrid publishers offering a range of services designed to support authors at every stage of the publishing journey.
Both companies provide essential services like editing, cover design, and global distribution, but they differ in terms of pricing, royalty structures, publishing timelines, and marketing support. Palmetto Publishing is known for its streamlined production process and 100% royalty retention, while Atmosphere Press emphasizes creative collaboration and personalized publishing packages, allowing authors to maintain control over their work.
By analyzing their offerings, costs, customer reviews, and more, this article will help you decide which publisher aligns best with your goals and vision for your book.
Quick Comparison
- Royalty Retention: Palmetto Publishing allows authors to keep 100% of their net profits, while Atmosphere Press offers 90% royalty retention, taking a 10% cut.
- Publishing Timeline: Palmetto Publishing typically has a shorter timeline (8-12 weeks minimum), whereas Atmosphere Press takes 4-8 months, emphasizing a more collaborative and hands-on approach.
- Marketing Services: Palmetto focuses on short-term marketing options like press releases and book descriptions, while Atmosphere Press offers optional, more comprehensive marketing packages but at a higher cost with mixed effectiveness.
| FEATURE |  |  |
| ⭐ Customer Experience | 4.8-star rating (Trustpilot) | 4.7-star rating (Trustpilot) |
| 💸 Affordability | $3,800-$5,000+ | $3,000-$5,000 |
| 💰Royalties | Authors retain 100% royalties | Authors retain 90% royalties |
| ⏳Production Speed | 8-12 weeks minimum | 4-8 months |
| 🏢 Marketing Services | Short-term options like press releases, limited long-term strategies | Add-on marketing packages ($1,000-$5,000) |
| 🌎 Distribution | Global reach to 15,000+ online retailers | Distribution through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and global channels |
| 🧑💻 Support | Hands-on consultations and strategy sessions | Collaborative approach with dedicated project managers |
| 📚Formats | Print, eBooks, POD | Print, eBooks, POD, Audiobooks |
| 💎 Transparency | Clear pricing but delays reported | Pricing details and royalties could be clearer |
Overview of Palmetto Publishing
Palmetto Publishing is a hybrid publishing company that offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to support authors through every stage of the self-publishing process. Known for its professional production quality, Palmetto excels in providing end-to-end solutions, including editing, custom book cover design, interior formatting, print-on-demand (POD) services, and global distribution. Authors retain 100% of their net profits, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize royalty retention.
Palmetto caters to both first-time and experienced authors across various genres, offering a straightforward and structured approach to publishing. Their services are highly rated for their quality, with many authors praising their hands-on support and strategy consultations. The company is particularly suitable for authors who want professional production and distribution without sacrificing control over their work.
However, Palmetto does have limitations. While they provide short-term marketing solutions such as press releases, author websites, and SEO-optimized book descriptions, they lack comprehensive, long-term marketing strategies that some authors need for sustained book sales. Additionally, their pricing can be steep, averaging $3,800 and often exceeding $5,000, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious authors.
Palmetto Publishing is a strong choice for authors looking for professional production services and global reach, but it may not be ideal for those seeking affordable or extensive marketing options.
Key Features
Palmetto Publishing offers a full suite of professional publishing services designed to help authors bring their books to market. From editing and design to distribution and short-term marketing, the company provides end-to-end support while allowing authors to retain 100% of their net profits.
Key Features of Palmetto Publishing Include:
- Editing Services
- Custom Book Cover Design
- Interior Formatting
- eBook Conversion
- Print-On-Demand (POD)
- Global Distribution
- Short-Term Marketing Services
- Author Retains Full Rights
- Strategy Consultations
- Transparent Pricing Structure
Does Not Offer:
- Long-Term Marketing Strategies
- Audiobook Production
- Comprehensive Author Platforms
- Advanced Distribution Reports
Overview of Atmosphere Press
Atmosphere Press is a hybrid publishing company founded in 2015 by Dr. Nick Courtright in Austin, Texas. Known for its author-centric approach, Atmosphere Press provides a collaborative publishing experience that allows authors to retain creative control and ownership of their work. The company offers a wide range of professional services, including editorial coaching, custom cover design, audiobook production, and global distribution, catering to authors across genres. With nearly 1,000 books published to date, Atmosphere Press has helped many authors achieve recognition, with some earning awards and building large audiences.
Atmosphere Press excels at providing tailored publishing packages, giving authors the flexibility to choose the services that best fit their needs. Their emphasis on collaboration and detailed feedback ensures that authors are involved in every step of the process. Additionally, they offer a competitive royalty structure, with authors keeping 90% of their royalties.
However, Atmosphere Press has its limitations. Their publishing packages come with significant upfront costs, ranging between $3,000 and $5,000, and comprehensive marketing services are not included in their standard packages. Authors seeking extensive promotional support will need to purchase expensive add-ons. Furthermore, Atmosphere Press is selective in the manuscripts it accepts, which may limit opportunities for some writers.
Atmosphere Press is a great option for authors looking for creative control and professional support, but it may not be ideal for those on a tight budget or seeking long-term marketing solutions.
Key Features
Atmosphere Press provides a collaborative and author-focused approach to hybrid publishing, offering a variety of professional services that allow authors to maintain creative control and ownership of their work. With customizable packages and competitive royalty retention, they cater to authors who want hands-on involvement in producing high-quality books.
Key Features of Atmosphere Press Include:
- Customizable Publishing Packages
- Editorial Coaching & Manuscript Review
- Custom Cover Design
- Audiobook Production & Distribution
- Print-On-Demand (POD)
- Global Distribution
- Retains Author Rights
- Dedicated Project Managers
- Optional Marketing Packages
- Focus on Collaboration
Does Not Offer:
- Comprehensive Marketing Strategies
- Interior Formatting
- Proofreading in Standard Packages
- Guaranteed Manuscript Acceptance
Affordability
When it comes to affordability, Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press offer similar pricing structures, but each has its nuances that may influence an author’s decision. Both companies are considered mid-to-high-cost options within the hybrid publishing industry, with overall prices falling in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, depending on the services selected.
Palmetto Publishing offers individually priced services, such as editing starting at $300, book cover design from $599, and interior formatting up to $1,699. Their average author spends around $3,800 for full production, but costs can exceed $5,000 if multiple premium services are selected. Palmetto’s transparent pricing allows authors to choose only the services they need, but there are no free options or entry-level packages, making it less accessible for authors on a tight budget.
Atmosphere Press, on the other hand, uses a customizable flagship publishing package that typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000. While their services are bundled into a single package for ease, add-ons such as audiobook production ($1,500-$5,000) or marketing services ($1,000-$5,000) can quickly raise the total cost. Atmosphere Press also lacks lower-cost options, making it similarly inaccessible to budget-conscious authors.
In terms of affordability, neither company stands out as significantly cheaper. Palmetto’s pricing is slightly more transparent and flexible, allowing authors to mix and match services, while Atmosphere Press’s bundled packages may appeal to those looking for all-inclusive support. Authors seeking affordability may find better options with companies offering lower-cost entry points or monthly payment plans, as both Palmetto and Atmosphere Press require a significant upfront investment.
Publishing Timelines
The publishing timelines of Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press vary significantly, reflecting their different approaches to production and collaboration.
Palmetto Publishing generally offers shorter publishing timelines, with an average production window of 8-12 weeks. However, many authors report that delays can push this timeline beyond the initial estimate. While this is still faster than traditional publishing timelines, the process can feel rushed, and some authors mention a lack of transparency about progress during the production stages. Palmetto’s faster timeline makes it a suitable option for authors seeking a quicker turnaround, though this speed may come at the expense of more thorough collaboration.
In contrast, Atmosphere Press has a more extended timeline, averaging 4-8 months from manuscript acceptance to publication. This longer process is partly due to their emphasis on collaboration and creative input, which involves back-and-forth communication with the author at every stage of production. While this approach ensures the author’s vision is fully realized, it also requires patience and timely feedback from both parties. Atmosphere’s timeline is more aligned with authors seeking a personalized, hands-on experience rather than those looking for speed.
In summary, Palmetto Publishing offers a faster, more streamlined timeline, ideal for authors who want to see their book on the market quickly. Atmosphere Press, on the other hand, takes a slower but more collaborative approach, allowing authors to be deeply involved in the process. Authors should weigh their priorities—speed versus creative input—when deciding between the two.
Royalties
The royalty structures of Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press are both author-friendly, allowing authors to retain the majority of their book profits. However, there are notable differences in the percentages and payout processes offered by each company.
Palmetto Publishing allows authors to retain 100% of their net profits, making it one of the most attractive options for royalty retention among hybrid publishers. After deducting distribution fees charged by platforms like Amazon or IngramSpark, all remaining earnings go directly to the author. Royalty payments are processed quarterly, with authors receiving regular updates on their book’s performance. Palmetto’s royalty system is straightforward, ensuring authors keep full control of their earnings without sharing profits with the publisher.
Atmosphere Press, in comparison, offers authors 90% of royalties, keeping a 10% cut of book sales. While slightly lower than Palmetto, this percentage is still generous compared to traditional publishing, where authors typically receive only 10-15%. Atmosphere Press processes royalty payments quarterly as well, and while they provide authors with performance metrics, some reviewers have reported occasional delays in payouts or limited clarity about earnings.
In summary, Palmetto Publishing takes the lead in royalty retention, offering 100% of net profits to authors. Atmosphere Press, with its 90% royalty retention, is still highly competitive but slightly less favorable. Both companies provide quarterly payouts, but Palmetto’s system is often seen as more transparent and straightforward. Authors who prioritize keeping all of their book profits may find Palmetto’s structure more appealing.
Marketing Services
Marketing is one of the most challenging aspects of publishing, and while both Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press offer marketing support, their approaches differ in scope, effectiveness, and cost. Neither company includes comprehensive long-term marketing strategies in their standard packages, which means authors must purchase additional services or handle much of the promotion themselves.
Palmetto Publishing provides short-term marketing services designed to boost a book’s initial visibility. These services include SEO-optimized book descriptions, press releases, marketing copy, and author website creation. Their marketing packages start at $249 for basic promotional tools and go up to $2,299 for more advanced options, including press release distribution to major outlets. While these services are useful for launching a book, Palmetto does not offer long-term promotional strategies or ongoing campaigns, leaving authors to manage their marketing efforts beyond the initial launch. For authors new to marketing, this can feel like a gap in support.
Atmosphere Press, on the other hand, offers a range of optional marketing add-ons, such as securing book reviews, organizing author interviews, and running targeted ad campaigns. Their marketing packages range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the level of support. However, these services are not included in their flagship publishing package and must be purchased separately. Atmosphere provides guidance and access to resources, such as a database of independent bookstores, but their marketing services are often considered limited in scope. Many authors report that while the add-ons are helpful for visibility, they may not provide a significant return on investment without substantial author involvement.
In summary, both publishers offer basic marketing tools, but Palmetto Publishing focuses on affordable, short-term strategies, while Atmosphere Press offers more expensive and varied add-ons. Neither company provides fully comprehensive, long-term marketing solutions, meaning authors will still need to invest time and effort into their own promotional strategies. For authors seeking robust marketing support, additional third-party services or self-managed campaigns may be necessary.
Print-On-Demand (POD) & Distribution
Both Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press provide Print-on-Demand (POD) and distribution services as part of their offerings, ensuring authors’ books are widely available across major retailers. These services are core to their publishing models, but there are differences in how they operate, the reach of their distribution networks, and how these services are priced.
Palmetto Publishing offers a robust global distribution network, giving authors access to over 15,000 online retailers, including major platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and IngramSpark. For a one-time fee of $399, this service ensures the author’s book is widely available without any recurring charges, making it an appealing feature for authors looking for extensive reach. Palmetto’s distribution services are particularly strong, and their POD model eliminates the need for large upfront print runs. Distribution is one of Palmetto’s key strengths, but it’s not the sole focus of their business. Their distribution and POD services are part of their broader publishing package, making it an efficient option for authors seeking both professional production and wide book availability.
Atmosphere Press also utilizes a POD model, ensuring that books are printed only when orders are placed. Their distribution network is global and includes major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other platforms, as well as international reach through partnerships with prominent distributors. Distribution is included in Atmosphere Press’s flagship publishing package, which typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000, with no additional fees for listing books on these platforms. While Atmosphere Press excels in providing authors with access to wide-reaching distribution channels, they focus more heavily on publishing and creative services rather than excelling purely in distribution. Their POD services function similarly to Palmetto’s, but Atmosphere emphasizes creative collaboration rather than distribution as their standout feature.
In summary, both Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press provide reliable POD and distribution services, making books available globally without requiring large upfront print runs. Palmetto Publishing stands out for its affordability and focus on distribution as a key feature, while Atmosphere Press integrates distribution seamlessly into its publishing packages, prioritizing creative involvement. Authors looking for extensive reach and cost-effective printing will find both companies to be strong contenders.
Support Services
Both Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press provide support services designed to assist authors throughout the publishing process. However, they differ in the level of hands-on involvement and the types of guidance they offer to authors, which can be a deciding factor depending on the level of support an author needs.
Palmetto Publishing offers a hands-on, guided publishing experience, with authors receiving direct support through consultation calls and strategy sessions. These sessions provide authors with an opportunity to discuss their publishing goals, receive advice, and resolve questions about the process. Their team is readily available to assist authors at various stages, ensuring they have access to professional guidance and feedback.The support is well-suited for first-time authors who may need extra help navigating the publishing process, though some reviews note occasional lapses in communication, particularly when production timelines are delayed. Palmetto’s support services are a good balance of guidance and autonomy, giving authors enough involvement to feel in control without being left on their own.
Atmosphere Press emphasizes a highly collaborative approach, assigning authors a dedicated project manager to oversee their book from start to finish. This project manager serves as the author’s main point of contact, guiding them through each stage of the publishing process, from manuscript preparation to production and distribution. Atmosphere also provides in-depth editorial feedback and encourages authors to participate actively in decisions about their book’s design, layout, and marketing strategy. Many authors praise the company for its accessibility and responsiveness, though some have noted that the reliance on author approvals and collaboration can extend production timelines.
In summary, Atmosphere Press stands out for its personalized, one-on-one support with dedicated project managers, making it ideal for authors who value collaboration and direct involvement. Palmetto Publishing, while slightly less personalized, still provides robust support services through strategy sessions and consultations, offering a more streamlined experience for authors who prefer less hands-on involvement. Both companies are author-friendly, but the level of support an author needs will determine which option is the best fit.
Customer Experiences & Reviews
The customer experiences of Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press are generally positive, with both companies receiving high ratings for their services. However, there are key differences in the specific strengths and weaknesses highlighted by authors in their reviews.
Palmetto Publishing holds an impressive 4.8/5 rating on Trustpilot, with many authors praising the company’s professional production quality, hands-on support, and global distribution services. Customers frequently highlight Palmetto’s design and formatting work, noting that their books meet industry standards and look polished. The strategy sessions and consultation calls are appreciated, particularly by first-time authors who find the guidance helpful. However, some reviews mention concerns about the high costs of their services and occasional delays in production timelines. A few authors also report limited transparency during certain stages of the publishing process, such as design approvals or final book delivery. Overall, Palmetto Publishing is highly rated for its quality but may feel expensive or less transparent to some authors.
Atmosphere Press also enjoys strong customer feedback, with a 4.7/5 rating on Trustpilot and generally positive reviews on platforms like Google. Authors often praise the company for its collaborative approach, noting the value of having a dedicated project manager and being involved in creative decisions. Atmosphere’s flexibility, professionalism, and transparency around rights and royalties are frequently highlighted as standout features. That said, some authors have expressed concerns about the high costs of optional services, such as marketing and audiobook production, and the lack of clarity in certain pricing details. A few reviewers also mention that while their collaborative model is beneficial, it can slow down production timelines, which may not suit authors looking for a faster publishing process.
In summary, both companies are highly regarded for their professionalism and support, with Palmetto Publishing standing out for its polished production and Atmosphere Press excelling in collaboration and personalized service. Authors should consider their priorities—whether they value speed and streamlined support or a more hands-on, creative experience—when choosing between the two.
Palmetto Publishing vs. Atmosphere Press
Choosing between Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press depends on your specific needs, priorities, and budget as an author. Both companies are reputable hybrid publishers, but they cater to different types of authors and goals. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
If you’re a first-time author, Palmetto Publishing is the better choice. Their strategy sessions, hands-on guidance, and shorter publishing timelines (8-12 weeks) make the process simpler for those new to publishing. While their support isn’t as personalized as Atmosphere’s, it’s sufficient for navigating the publishing journey with professional results. Palmetto Publishing also takes the lead in royalties, offering 100% net royalty retention compared to Atmosphere Press’s 90%.
If you value collaboration and creative control, this is where Atmosphere Press excels. Their dedicated project managers guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your input is considered in everything from editing to design. This is ideal for authors who want to be deeply involved in their book’s creation.
If you’re looking for good marketing services, neither company offers exceptional marketing services, but Atmosphere Press provides more robust add-ons, including targeted ad campaigns, author interviews, and book review placements (priced $1,000-$5,000). Palmetto Publishing focuses on affordable, short-term marketing (starting at $249), but lacks long-term strategies. Both companies are also in a similar price range ($3,000-$5,000), but Palmetto Publishing is slightly more transparent and allows authors to choose specific services rather than bundled packages, making it easier to control costs.
In summary, Palmetto Publishing is ideal for first-time authors or those who want fast, straightforward publishing and maximum royalties. Atmosphere Press is better suited for experienced or creative authors who value collaboration and don’t mind a longer timeline for a more hands-on experience. Both companies have their strengths, but your goals as an author will determine the best fit.
For an even more in-depth look at Palmetto Publishing and Atmosphere Press, click their names to explore detailed reviews right here on Top10publishers. Discover comprehensive insights and access valuable information to help you make an informed decision.
For further details, visit their official websites.