Atmosphere Press: What Authors Need to Know (REVIEW)

Navigating the publishing world can be an overwhelming experience for authors who want to bring their books to life. Among the many publishing options available, Atmosphere Press has emerged as a noteworthy player in the realm of hybrid publishing. This article dives into Atmosphere Press’ roots, what services they offer, their reputation, and the pros and cons of choosing them as a partner. To provide further options, we’ll also explore MindStir Media as a leading alternative for aspiring authors.

The Origins and Mission of Atmosphere Press

Atmosphere Press was founded in 2015 by Dr. Nick Courtright, a poet, author, and educator. Based in Austin, Texas, the company was created with the goal of helping authors achieve their publishing dreams without compromising creative control. Dr. Courtright’s background in creative writing and academia shaped his understanding of the traditional hurdles authors face, inspiring him to design a service model focused on transparency, collaboration, and quality.

Atmosphere Press positions itself as a hybrid publisher, meaning it bridges the gap between traditional and self-publishing. They provide authors with the resources of traditional publishing, such as professional editing and design, while allowing them to retain control over their rights, royalties, and final creative vision.

Services Offered by Atmosphere Press

Atmosphere Press offers a robust suite of services designed to support authors from manuscript development to publication. Here’s a breakdown of what they provide:

• Manuscript Editing: Authors can benefit from professional editing services, ranging from developmental edits to line-level proofreading.
• Custom Book Design: The company provides tailored cover and interior designs that align with the author’s vision.
• Printing and Distribution: They handle printing services and help authors distribute their books via major platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and indie bookstores.
• Marketing Support: While they’re not a full-service marketing agency, Atmosphere offers guidance on promotional strategies to help books reach their target audience.

Authors who partner with Atmosphere Press typically pay for these services upfront. Unlike traditional publishers, there are no financial royalties owed by the author. However, this model is different from self-publishing in that authors get hands-on professional support and guidance.

Atmosphere Press’ Reputation and Author Feedback

When examining how Atmosphere Press fares in terms of reputation, it’s essential to explore public feedback. Forums like Reddit, as well as reviews on Trustpilot, offer valuable insights from authors who’ve used their services.

On Reddit, threads discussing Atmosphere Press often highlight the company’s transparent and collaborative model. Many authors appreciate their willingness to listen to creative ideas while providing professional advice. However, some critiques note the high cost of their services, which may not be feasible for every aspiring author. There is also the occasional discussion about whether Atmosphere Press’ hybrid model provides enough marketing support for authors to gain sufficient visibility post-publication.

On Trustpilot, Atmosphere Press shines with over 100 reviews and an overwhelmingly positive rating. Authors frequently commend their team for being attentive and professional, with many pointing out that the quality of editing and design exceeded their expectations. Testimonials suggest a personal touch, which resonates with authors looking for guidance in their publishing journeys. However, 5% of Trust Pilot reviews are 1-star reviews, raising some concerns. Some of those negative Atmosphere Press reviews claim that the publisher “does not read your manuscript,” while other reviewers called the company a “vanity press.” This particular 1-star review is especially alarming if true.

Additionally, some reviews have echoed the sentiments shared on Reddit about pricing. Authors should approach their decision with a clear understanding of their budget and project goals before committing. It’s also worth noting that Atmosphere Press is not Better Business Bureau accredited. For some reason Atmosphere Press has decided against becoming BBB accredited, which includes adhering to the BBB accreditation standards.

Pros of Using Atmosphere Press

There are several advantages to choosing Atmosphere Press as a publishing partner:

1. Creative Control: Authors maintain full rights to their work and have the final say in creative decisions.
2. Collaborative Process: Many authors enjoy working closely with a dedicated team that respects their input.
3. High-Quality Output: The professional editing and design services ensure a polished, market-ready product.
4. Transparency: Atmosphere provides clear contracts and avoids hidden fees.

Cons of Using Atmosphere Press

While Atmosphere Press has its strengths, there are also some limitations to consider:

1. Cost: The upfront fees may not align with every author’s financial capacity, making it less accessible for budget-conscious writers.
2. Limited Marketing Support: While they offer some marketing advice, authors will need to handle substantial parts of book promotion on their own.
3. Not for All Genres: While versatile, some authors have found that niche genres may require additional effort to find the right audience.

MindStir Media as a Top Alternative

For writers considering alternatives, MindStir Media is a standout choice in the world of hybrid publishing. Founded by best-selling author J.J. Hebert, MindStir Media has positioned itself as a comprehensive publishing solution for authors seeking flexibility and support.

MindStir Media offers a range of services, including professional editing, custom cover design, marketing campaigns, and even celebrity endorsements. One particular highlight is their marketing focus. They boast proven strategies, including social media promotion, press releases, and media placement, which can be beneficial for authors looking to make a splash in the industry.

Their reputation is solid as well, with numerous testimonials praising their quality of service and marketing expertise. Similar to Atmosphere Press, MindStir Media operates on a service-fee basis, so authors should weigh the cost against what they aim to achieve.