Manhattan Book Group (MBG) has emerged as a premier hybrid book publisher, seamlessly merging aspects of traditional publishing with the flexibility and freedom of self-publishing. Located on Broadway in the iconic New York City, MBG is led by USA Today Bestselling Author J.J. Hebert, known for his clear expertise in the publishing industry. The group has carved out a unique niche for itself, offering an Author Program that guarantees authors to become Amazon bestsellers and gain exposure on major media outlets such as CBS, NBC, and Fox.
Are Hybrid Publishers Worth It?
Before we dive into the specifics of Manhattan Book Group, let’s first understand what hybrid publishing is. As the name suggests, hybrid publishers merge elements of both traditional and self-publishing, providing authors with a middle ground between the two.
In traditional publishing, publishers bear all costs and risks associated with the book production process, from editing and design to marketing and distribution. In return, they have full control over the book’s final product and its rights. Contrarily, self-publishing allows authors to retain full creative control and rights to their books but requires them to shoulder all production costs and responsibilities.
Hybrid publishing, as offered by Manhattan Book Group, is an innovative model that allows authors to maintain creative control while benefiting from professional publishing services. Authors contribute financially to the publication process, but in return, they receive professional editing, design, marketing, and distribution support — and authors retain all rights and royalties. So, if retaining rights and royalties while receiving support from the pros is important to you as an author, hybrid publishers such as Manhattan Book Group are definitely “worth it.”
The Manhattan Book Group Experience: Services & Pricing
Manhattan Book Group, led by USA Today Bestselling Author J.J. Hebert, offers a unique Author Program that guarantees authors to become Amazon bestsellers and get their work featured on major news outlets such as CBS, NBC, and Fox.
The program costs between $10,000 and $13,000, with financing options available from $278 to $362 per month. For this investment, authors receive a comprehensive suite of publishing services which includes professional editorial work, custom book cover design, custom interior page layout (typesetting), ISBN assignment & barcode generation, keyword research, market research, pricing and genre consulting, back cover copy creation and polishing, and book printing in paperback or hardcover.
Additionally, the package also includes print book returnability, a book discount program for author copies, eBook conversion, worldwide book distribution through Ingram (i.e. Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BAM and thousands of other retailers in over 100 countries), press release articles with guaranteed pickups/placements on NBC, CBS, and Fox websites, Twitter Blast service, and guaranteed Amazon Best Seller status through aggressive online advertising arranged by J.J. Hebert himself. Authors also receive quarterly sales reporting and 100% royalties.
The benefits of becoming an Amazon bestselling author and being seen on major news outlets are manifold. It increases credibility, helps land speaking engagements, leads to more radio and podcast appearances, attracts more clients, and results in more sales.
The Visionary Behind Manhattan Book Group: J.J. Hebert
J.J. Hebert, the founder of Manhattan Book Group, is a best-selling author himself and understands the challenges and opportunities in the publishing world. His debut novel, “Unconventional,” became an Amazon.com bestseller in three categories and has sold over 100,000 copies. He has authored six bestsellers, which have garnered ten literary awards. His success and expertise in the industry led him to establish MBG in 2018, with a vision to offer authors a viable alternative to traditional and self-publishing.
Hebert’s accomplishments extend beyond his writing. He is recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit, having been featured in major publications like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Inc. Magazine. Under his leadership, Manhattan Book Group has rapidly established itself as a reputable and trusted name in the hybrid publishing space.
Is Manhattan Book Group Legit? MBG Accolades and Reputation
Manhattan Book Group’s reputation as a premier hybrid publisher is well-earned and solidifies the fact that MBG is legit. Manhattan Book Group has been widely recognized for its outstanding services in the publishing industry. Here are some of their notable accolades that highlight its legitimacy:
- Praised by USA Today as top independent book publisher in New York City
- Named the #1 Indie Book Publisher in New York City by Kev’s Best
- Awarded Best Publishing Service in NYC by Stellar Business Awards (March 2022)
- Lauded as the Top Hybrid Book Publisher in New York City by The Los Angeles Tribune
- Received an endorsement from Mariel Hemingway, a Bestselling Author and Granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway
- Recognized as a proud member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce
These commendations show Manhattan Book Group’s commitment to providing high-quality publishing services and their continued success in the field.
The company’s partnership with Mariel Hemingway further enhances its standing in the literary world. Hemingway, the granddaughter of Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, is an accomplished author and actress herself. She brings her extensive experience and unique perspectives to the partnership, providing invaluable insights and connections.
Mariel Hemingway: A Literary Legacy
Mariel Hemingway carries forward the literary legacy of her grandfather, Ernest Hemingway, one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. She is an accomplished author, with several books to her name, including “Out Came the Sun” and “Invisible Girl.”
In addition to her writing, Mariel is also an award-winning actress as well as a mental health advocate, leveraging her personal experiences to raise awareness about mental health issues. Her partnership with Manhattan Book Group underscores the company’s commitment to supporting authors who strive to make a difference through their work.
Hemingway’s Review of Manhattan Book Group
Other Manhattan Book Group Reviews
- USA Today: Manhattan Book Group is Reshaping Book Publishing with J.J. Hebert at its Helm
- Los Angeles Magazine (LA Mag): Manhattan Book Group: Leading Independent Publisher in NYC Under Guidance of Bestselling Author J.J. Hebert
- LA Weekly: Manhattan Book Group and J.J. Hebert: A Dynamic Duo Marking a New Era for Indie Publishing in New York City
- CEO World Magazine: Manhattan Book Group: A New Standard in New York City Book Publishing
- Medium: What Manhattan Book Group Can Teach You About Hybrid Publishing
- Robin Waite: Manhattan Book Group Review: A Premier Hybrid Book Publisher
- The Los Angeles Tribune: Manhattan Book Group: Review of the Top Hybrid Book Publisher in New York City (2022)
- Disrupt Insider: Manhattan Book Group Review: A Premier Hybrid Book Publisher
- Trust Index: Manhattan Book Group Publishers Reviews
- Los Angeles Magazine: Manhattan Book Group: Leading Independent Publisher in NYC Under Guidance of Bestselling Author J.J. Hebert
- Techbullion: Review of Manhattan Book Group 2022: New York City’s Finest Book Publisher
- Urban Matter: Manhattan Book Group: A Comprehensive Review (2023) of a Top Hybrid Book Publisher
- Critical Hit: Manhattan Book Group 2022 Review: The Best NYC Book Publisher?
- News Hunt 360: Manhattan Book Group: A Top-Rated Hybrid Publisher in the Heart of New York City
- Newstrail: Manhattan Book Group: A Hybrid Publisher And Amazon Game-Changer
- The Daily Scanner: Manhattan Book Group – Read Before Using this NYC Book Publisher (REVIEW)
- Disrupt Weekly: Manhattan Book Group – Revolutionizing Publishing With a Hybrid Twist
- The Industry Times: Review of Manhattan Book Group, the Premier New York City Hybrid Book Publisher
- The Los Angelers: Manhattan Book Group – Hybrid Publisher Review (2023)
- Popular Hustle: Manhattan Book Group | Mastering the Art of Innovative Hybrid Publishing
- Tech Journal: Discover Manhattan Book Group Through Our In-Depth Review
- IPS: Review of Manhattan Book Group: A Hybrid Publishing Powerhouse in New York City
- Totally Clickful: Manhattan Book Group REVIEW 2022: New York City book publishing at its best
- The Hudson Weekly: Manhattan Book Group Secures a Glowing Review From Mariel Hemingway
Manhattan Book Group Submissions
Unlike traditional book publishers, Manhattan Book Group has an open submission policy. You don’t need to be represented by a literary agent to get in touch with Manhattan Book Group and submit your manuscript for consideration. Most traditional publishers, on the other hand, do not accept unsolicited or “un-agented” submissions, so this approach by MBG is unconventional to say the least.Generally speaking, Manhattan Book Group prefers that authors schedule a consultation first and then submit their manuscript upon request after the call. During the free 15-minute consultation, a Publishing Director or specialist will discuss your manuscript with you in detail to see if it’s a good fit for the Manhattan Book Group Author Program. If interested, the Director will ask to see the manuscript (Word document or PDF) for final review. If approved, a contract will be offered to join the MBG Author Program.
Manhattan Book Group accepts all genres. Authors usually know if they are accepted for the MBG program within about 5 business days from submitting their manuscript, if requested by Manhattan Book Group. This sort of turnaround time compared to dealing with literary agents or traditional publishers is considered lightning fast. Many agents will take weeks or months to respond to inquiries known as query letters.
Manhattan Book Group Careers
Manhattan Book Group hires the finest project managers, editors, book designers, customer service reps, and writers that the publishing industry has to offer. As the top indie publisher in New York City, Manhattan Book Group’s reputation hinges on the success of its team and the books that they help produce for its author clients.Are you looking for a career with Manhattan Book Group? You can reach out to MBG at its official website to inquire. You should have 5 years of experience in the publishing industry at the bare minimum. Manhattan Book Group offers paid jobs only and does not offer internships.
Conclusion
Manhattan Book Group is more than just a publishing company. It’s a legit and acclaimed hybrid publishing platform that empowers authors with the experts and resources they need to bring their stories to life, while allowing authors to retain their rights, royalties, and creative control. By blending traditional publishing services with the flexibility of self-publishing, MBG offers a unique and compelling solution for authors looking to make their mark in the literary world.
Under the guidance of USA Today bestselling author J.J. Hebert and with partners like celebrity Mariel Hemingway, Manhattan Book Group is set to continue its ascent as a leading hybrid publisher and top indie publisher in NYC, offering authors a fresh, innovative approach to publishing in the 21st century.