A Little Bit About WayWord Books
I’m Leslie Rindoks, founder of WayWord Books. For the past two decades, I’ve worked as an editor, book designer, writer (writing as Avery Caswell), and publisher.
During this time, I have watched big box stores shift the industry to a distributor-dependent publishing model, eroding publisher profits and subsequently author royalties. At the same time, technological advances made it possible for anyone with a computer to “publish,” flooding the market with books of questionable quality.
Alongside this evolution, it has become increasingly difficult for authors to succeed. Published writers earn on average less than $7000 per year, and that includes income from teaching and speaking engagements.
In 2019, my novel Salvation won first place in a Southern fiction contest and was subsequently published by a small, independent press. It was well received—earning many five-star reviews. Despite this success, while I went on my book tour, Zöe, my pet sitter, earned more feeding my cat Poe than I earned in royalties. Don’t get me wrong, Zöe’s a great kid, but something’s seriously wrong with this math.
I thought there must be a better way—both for readers to gain access to great books, and for writers to make a living writing them.
And now there is.
Manuscript Acquisition
Always on the lookout for exceptional stories, we have an open query policy.
WayWord Readers Have A Voice
Readers share their thoughts on our Forum pages. After submissions are screened by WayWord’s team, subscribers help shape next season’s list.
WayWord Limited Editions
With an established network of quality printers and book finishers around the world, WayWord has more than 20 years experience creating beautiful books.
Curated Experience
Each WayWord original is paired with a gift that complements the author’s work and enhances the reader’s enjoyment.
Quarterly Shipments
Exquisite books, not available anywhere else, are shipped direct to our readers, one each quarter.
WayWord Books is working to change the industry. As a subscription-based publisher, we are breaking the mold by delivering quality, first-edition books directly to readers, eliminating the need for distributors, many of which earn far more than authors, and sometimes even more than publishers.
We venture off the beaten path to find new work by topnotch writers, and combine beautifully designed books with carefully curated gifts that complement the authors’ work.
One of my favorite quotes about writing is: “The book is a party the writer throws for the reader.”
You’re cordially invited to the party! RSVP by subscribing today.
