How do you approach distribution for books (Amazon KDP Select vs. going wide)?
Like everything we do at Ember & Vine, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to distribution guidance. The decision to go wide or enroll in Amazon KDP Select depends on your book type, goals, and long-term strategy.
In general, standalone books—especially memoir and nonfiction—often benefit from going wide, while KDP Select can work well for series fiction. We walk you through the pros and cons of each option, explain how distribution affects royalties and reach, and help you choose the path that best serves your book and audience.
Do I need ISBNs for my ebook or audiobook?
If you plan to publish anywhere beyond Amazon, you’ll need your own ISBNs. We strongly recommend authors purchase their own ISBNs for maximum flexibility and ownership. If you purchase the VIP package, we’ll walk you through purchasing from Bowker.
Just a note that each format requires a separate ISBN (ebook, paperback, etc.).
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We require a 50% down payment to begin work, as we pay deposits to our subcontractors. The remaining balance is paid in installments tied to project milestones.
All payment terms are clearly outlined in your contract. If you need flexibility, we’re happy to discuss options—our goal is to make the process manageable while ensuring our team is paid fairly and on time.
Will you help me upload my book and hit the “publish” button?
With the purchase of a VIP package, Ember and Vine staff will guide you through the upload process via a live Zoom call, where we can see your screen and walk you step-by-step through each platform.
Because we don’t take control of your accounts (your book, your data, your income), you’ll be present during the upload—but we’re right there to troubleshoot, answer questions, and handle unexpected issues. Distribution platforms can sometimes be unpredictable.
What does your cover design process look like?
Our goal is to create a professional, market-appropriate cover that looks indistinguishable from traditionally published books.
The process starts with a short questionnaire where you share your preferences, vision, and comparable books you admire. We then apply our market expertise and hire the right designer for your project.
You’ll receive multiple cover concepts (typically three), review them, gather feedback if you’d like, and then we refine the design based on your input. We often recommend avoiding photographs or human images on the cover unless they clearly serve the market, as more symbolic or illustrative designs tend to appeal to a broader readership.
You can view examples of our work in the Publications section of our website.
How involved are you in managing the project?
With the VIP package, we manage the entire production process—from editing and proofreading to design, layout, uploads, and platform coordination—so you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors.
You’ll receive a clear production schedule upfront, and we stay in close communication throughout the project. We also review all subcontractor work for quality, and we request revisions when needed.
Communication style is flexible: some authors want regular check-ins and deadline reminders; others prefer a lighter touch. We adapt to what works best for you.
What marketing support do you provide?
For packages including marketing copy, our support focuses primarily on pre-publication strategy and setup, including:
- Amazon keywords and categories
- Back cover and product description copy
- Author bio and metadata copy (including Ingram’s technical requirements)
We are experienced in SEO and platform optimization but do not currently manage paid ads or ongoing post-publication campaigns. However, we’re happy to recommend trusted professionals and services for ads, social media, or broader launch strategies.
Do you offer Amazon A+ Content?
Yes. Amazon A+ Content setup is available as an add-on for $250, which includes:
- Strategy guidance
- Upload assistance
- Up to three standard still-image modules
This enhances your Amazon product page with visual and branded content and can improve reader engagement.
Do you help with ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies)?
As part of the VIP package, we’ll help you upload the files and walk you through ordering copies. Since needs vary widely, the quantity and cost of ARCs are determined and paid by the author.
We can also help you distribute ebook ARCs, which are often more cost-effective and increasingly preferred by readers.
Do you provide guidance beyond marketing copy (ARC teams, launches, etc.)?
With the VIP package, in addition to copy and metadata, we provide strategic guidance through an author welcome and best-practices resource, which includes:
- Building an ARC team
- Approaching book clubs and podcasters
- Press release basics
- General launch planning tips
While we don’t execute these campaigns for you, we share proven strategies and trusted referrals so you’re not figuring it out alone.
Do you help with audiobooks?
We don’t produce audiobooks in-house, but we maintain a vetted list of trusted audiobook producers and are happy to make recommendations.
Audiobook production has become highly professionalized, with strict quality requirements from distribution platforms. For most memoirs and nonfiction, we recommend working with experienced professionals rather than attempting DIY production.
Costs vary widely based on length, narrator, and production quality, but most professionally produced audiobooks start at a few thousand dollars. We help you evaluate options and decide whether an audiobook makes sense for your goals and budget.
Do you help with sales tax, EINs, or business setup?
We can offer general guidance, but we do not provide tax or legal advice.
Requirements for sales tax licenses and EINs vary by state, especially for direct sales (author’s online store, events, speaking engagements, book signings). We strongly recommend working with an accountant or advisor in your home state to ensure compliance.
How do I know what kind of edits I need?
How do I select what package is best for me?
