Future House Publishing Review – Full Guide for Authors

Choosing the right publisher for your book can be daunting, especially with so many options available. If you’re considering Future House Publishing, you likely want to ensure that your book finds a home that will help it thrive. In this review, we’ll explore what Future House Publishing offers, its strengths and weaknesses, and why there may be better alternatives for aspiring authors. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether this publisher aligns with your needs or if there’s a more suitable path forward.

What is Future House Publishing?

Future House Publishing is an independent publisher founded in 2014, specializing in science fiction, fantasy, and children’s books. With an emphasis on community, creativity, and family values, they have built a catalog that includes award-winning and best-selling titles from a range of authors across the globe. They aim to publish stories that resonate with readers, capturing a sense of wonder and adventure, often appealing to audiences who enjoy imaginative and speculative genres.

Future House Publishing distinguishes itself by focusing on niche genres, primarily sci-fi and fantasy. Their mission is to bring together authors and readers who are passionate about these genres, fostering a dedicated community that celebrates creativity. They also highlight their commitment to producing high-quality books that align with their core values of liberty and community. Additionally, Future House Publishing offers a unique opportunity for authors looking to break into genres that are often underrepresented by larger publishers, making them an attractive option for niche storytellers.

Their focus on children’s books also sets them apart, particularly within the sci-fi and fantasy genres. By aiming at a younger audience, Future House Publishing tries to nurture a new generation of readers who are captivated by fantastical worlds and adventurous tales. However, this niche focus could also mean limited opportunities for authors whose work doesn’t fit neatly into these genres, potentially excluding talented writers looking for a more diverse publishing landscape.

What does Future House Publishing offer?

Future House Publishing offers several services designed to support authors in getting their work published, though it’s worth considering whether these truly meet the high expectations most writers have:

• Editorial Support: They provide basic editing and proofreading, which can be helpful, but some authors might find this level of service insufficient compared to more extensive developmental editing offered by other publishers. The focus seems to be on getting the manuscript polished just enough for publication rather than offering comprehensive developmental feedback that could elevate the work to the next level.
• Marketing Assistance: Their marketing efforts focus on genre-specific audiences. However, these campaigns might not have the broad reach that authors expect, particularly when aiming for larger markets. Marketing strategies tend to be targeted but limited, which could mean that your book isn’t exposed to a wider audience beyond dedicated genre fans.
• Distribution Channels: Future House offers traditional distribution, but the scope is often limited, which may restrict an author’s potential to reach diverse and international markets. While they do have partnerships with major distributors, the effectiveness of these channels can be inconsistent, especially when competing with larger publishers with more established networks.
• Community Engagement: They emphasize community, but this aspect may not be as robust or interactive as the more extensive author networks available elsewhere. The community engagement largely revolves around social media interactions and genre-specific events, which might not provide the deep, ongoing support that many authors are looking for.
• Royalties and Contracts: While their contracts are said to be author-friendly, some authors have found that the royalty structure isn’t as advantageous as those provided by other platforms that offer higher percentages and more transparency. The terms may look appealing at first glance, but the actual earnings potential can be limited, particularly for newer authors who are just starting to build their readership.

Pros and Cons of Future House Publishing

When evaluating Future House Publishing, it’s essential to weigh both the advantages and potential drawbacks to determine if this publisher is the right fit for you.

Pros of Future House Publishing

1. Niche Genre Focus: Their specialization in sci-fi and fantasy can be an advantage for authors within these genres, though it may limit opportunities for writers in other fields. This focus allows them to cater to a specific audience, but it also means that their reach is naturally constrained.
2. Community Emphasis: They prioritize building a community of readers and writers, but the actual scope of this community might not be as broad as advertised. The emphasis on community can help new authors feel supported, though the depth of engagement may fall short of expectations.
3. Author-Friendly Contracts: They claim to offer fair contracts, but some authors have noted that the terms are not as flexible as initially presented. The contracts may include clauses that could limit an author’s future opportunities, which is worth considering before committing.

Cons of Future House Publishing

1. Limited Editing Services: The editorial support provided is quite basic, which may leave authors needing additional services elsewhere. Authors looking for in-depth developmental editing might find themselves having to hire additional professionals, increasing overall costs.
2. Narrow Marketing Reach: Their marketing campaigns are targeted, but this can mean limited visibility compared to broader publishing options. Authors may find that the reach doesn’t extend far beyond their niche, which can hinder the potential for large-scale success.
3. Restricted Distribution: The distribution channels may not be extensive enough to achieve wide international reach, potentially limiting book sales. Authors hoping for significant global exposure may feel constrained by the limited distribution network.
4. Royalty Structure: Some authors feel the royalty percentages are not as competitive as those offered by other publishing models. This can be a major drawback for those looking to maximize their earnings, as the return on investment may not justify the effort put into the book.
5. Community Engagement: Despite their emphasis on community, the actual support network may fall short of expectations, particularly when compared to more established publishing networks. Authors who thrive on peer interaction and support might find this aspect lacking.

Alternatives to Future House Publishing

If you are exploring publishing options, it’s worth considering some of the other traditional publishing services out there. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these can help you make a more informed choice.

1. Penguin Random House: One of the largest traditional publishers, offering extensive distribution and marketing resources. However, getting accepted can be highly competitive, and authors may have less creative control over their work. The rigorous selection process often discourages many talented writers who might otherwise find success with a more flexible model.
2. HarperCollins: A well-established name in publishing with significant reach. While they provide extensive editorial and marketing services, the process can be challenging for new authors, and royalties might not always be as favorable. Authors might also face significant creative restrictions, as HarperCollins has a reputation for taking an active role in shaping the content.
3. Simon & Schuster: Known for its broad market reach and established reputation. However, like other traditional publishers, they often demand a significant share of royalties, and the acceptance process can be tough for debut authors. Additionally, the timelines for getting a book to market can be long, which may not suit all authors.
4. SelfPublishing.com: Unlike traditional publishers, selfpublishing.com provides authors with full control over their work, competitive royalties, and a comprehensive support system designed to help writers succeed. This model allows authors to keep creative freedom while benefiting from professional services that make the self-publishing journey smoother and more rewarding. The flexibility and focus on empowering authors make it a compelling alternative for those who wish to retain ownership of their creative vision.

Why Authors Should Consider SelfPublishing.com Instead of Future House Publishing

While Future House Publishing has some appealing features, selfpublishing.com offers a range of advantages that may better suit the needs of many authors. SelfPublishing.com focuses on empowering writers, providing greater control and flexibility throughout the entire publishing process.

1. Creative Control: With selfpublishing.com, authors retain full creative control over their work, ensuring their vision is brought to life without compromise. Unlike traditional publishing, where editorial decisions may be influenced by market trends, selfpublishing.com ensures that the author’s voice remains authentic.
2. Higher Royalties: Authors can enjoy more competitive royalty rates, which means keeping a larger share of the profits from book sales compared to traditional publishing. This financial incentive is especially important for authors who are looking to make a sustainable income from their writing.
3. Comprehensive Support: SelfPublishing.com offers a wide range of support services, from editing to marketing, designed to help authors succeed without the limitations of traditional publishing. This level of support can help bridge the gap for authors who may need extra assistance in navigating the complexities of the publishing world.
4. Flexibility: Unlike traditional publishers, selfpublishing.com allows authors to choose their timeline, ensuring that projects move at a pace that suits them. This flexibility can be crucial for authors who wish to align their publishing schedule with other life commitments or market opportunities.
5. Author Empowerment: SelfPublishing.com places a strong emphasis on empowering authors, giving them the tools and resources needed to succeed on their own terms. This empowerment goes beyond just publishing a book; it includes helping authors build their brand and establish themselves in the literary market.

Future House Publishing Review – Final Thoughts

Future House Publishing may be a suitable option for authors interested in niche genres like sci-fi and fantasy, but there are significant limitations to consider, especially in terms of editing, marketing reach, and distribution. The targeted nature of their offerings might appeal to some, but others could find the services limiting when it comes to broader market exposure and creative flexibility. On the other hand, selfpublishing.com offers more flexibility, higher royalties, and greater control, making it an attractive choice for authors who want to take charge of their publishing journey while receiving comprehensive support. If you’re seeking a publishing partner that prioritizes your creative vision and empowers you every step of the way, selfpublishing.com might just be the better choice.