How Publishers Can Empower Their Authors to Level Up Their Manuscripts (Without Breaking the Bank)

Empower Your Authors. Protect Your Investment.  Discover how publishers and indie presses can save time, elevate manuscripts, and boost book performance with professional evaluation—starting at just $50.

The Cost of Underdeveloped Manuscripts

Each year, billions of dollars are lost in the global publishing industry due to books that fail to perform. From unsold inventory and wasted marketing budgets to brand damage and missed opportunities, publishers and self-publishing authors alike are affected.

In the UK alone, an estimated 77 million unsold books are destroyed annually. In the U.S., the return rate for print books hovers around 20–25%, representing billions in unrecoverable costs. Globally, it’s estimated that only 20% of traditionally published books ever earn out their advance, leaving the remaining 80% as sunk investments.

Even in self-publishing, where over 2.3 million titles were released in 2021, 90% of books sell fewer than 100 copies—leaving many authors operating at a loss after paying for editing, cover design, and marketing out of pocket. The financial and emotional toll of a failed book release is steep.

When Authors Don’t Know They Need More

Many manuscripts fall short not because the story lacks merit, but because the author doesn’t know how to identify structural flaws or market weaknesses. The need for professional manuscript feedback often goes unnoticed by the author themselves.

Publishers, hybrid presses, and author service providers often recognize these gaps early. But without editorial intervention, an underdeveloped book risks becoming an expensive misfire—wasting time, resources, and potentially damaging long-term credibility for both the author and the publishing brand.

Every great book starts with a stronger draft. Draft 2 Done™ gives publishers, editors, and indie authors the support they need to polish manuscripts without draining time or budget.

 Get expert feedback, fast turnarounds, and results your readers will notice—starting at just $50.

Draft 2 Done™: A Low-Risk, High-Impact Manuscript Evaluation Service

Draft 2 Done™ is a comprehensive manuscript evaluation service designed to catch weaknesses before they become costly. Led by award-nominated editor Megan Joseph, this service delivers a multi-level critique—covering developmental, line, and copyediting elements.

The primary mission is to empower authors. Each author receives a detailed SWOT analysis, clear revision plans, and a second-round review to ensure the draft actually improves. It’s not just about fixing what’s wrong—it’s about teaching writers how to elevate their craft.

This is the kind of editorial support that turns potential into polish—and protects a publisher’s investment.

Save Time and Strengthen Your Authors

Most small publishing houses and hybrid presses are run by teams who wear multiple hats. Even if you're an expert editor yourself, you likely don't have time to guide every author through their revision journey.

That’s where Draft 2 Done™ steps in. Our process saves publishers time by giving authors clear, actionable editorial direction from a trusted partner who specializes in developmental coaching and narrative structure.

Support Author Growth—Starting at Just $50

For as little as $50, publishers and self-publishers can access professional manuscript feedback that safeguards their investment and improves outcomes.

When the average self-published author earns under $1,000 a year—and a third earn less than $500—spending wisely on editorial development isn’t just smart. It’s essential. Poor reviews and underwhelming sales don’t just hurt morale—they damage credibility, limit future opportunities, and waste marketing dollars.

Draft 2 Done™ helps authors avoid:

• Rushed releases with messy pacing or unclear messaging

• Expensive relaunches or revision rounds post-publication

• The dreaded fate of sitting in someone’s cart, never purchased

It’s not just editing—it’s education. And for publishers, that means stronger books and better long-term author relationships.

Refer. Recommend. Reassure.

Whether you’re preparing a debut author for publication or trying to salvage a promising draft, Draft 2 Done™ equips writers with the tools to deliver stronger manuscripts.

If you're a publisher, hybrid press, or book coach, refer your authors with confidence. And if you're a self-publishing writer, investing in expert feedback now can prevent painful regret later.

📍 Learn more or schedule an evaluation at👉 www.JosephEditorialServices.com/draft2done