About Briar's Books

Briar set up Briar's Books about 12 years ago but has been writing for a lot longer. She was a journalist for 14 years before she began to write her own books - all of which have been translated into other languages. Over about 25 years she has developed skills in book design and production, and began offering her services to authors wanting to self-publish. So she combines strong writing and editing skills with design know-how, pre-press experience and a level of technical expertise that comes in handy when authors (almost always!) present manuscripts, photos, diagrams and computer files that fall well short (in some way) of what is required for the production of a book and - often - e-book.

Briar's Books is a boutique book publisher. Briar is not a printer, but works with trusted printers. She is not trying to promote writers or self-promote. She simply offers professional services to people who feel they have something to say and want help to get it into print. The books run the gamut: fantasy, counselling, educational, fiction, children's books, poetry, genealogies, autobiographies, science, sociology, Christian and theological. See some samples of her work.

With the advent of the digital book Briar also began to produce e-books, mostly for kindle - the largest and most popular of the digital bookstores.

The people who approach Briar's Books usually aren't pretentious about writing. They feel they have something worth saying for the record that is interesting, uplifting, insightful, distinctive or necessary and they believe that traditional publishers will not - in the main - be interested. Authors of Christian books find their way to Briar's Books.

Briar's Books has produced more than 50 books - everything from large, high-end academic and literary books, to small autobiographical books. She seeks to keep her costs down and it helps that her studio is home-based.

Briar has an extensive knowledge of computer software used to produce books, notably the Adobe Suite, and experience working with printers. The end of the process is a ready-to-read book delivered to your door. Typically, production of self-published books involves some level of editing and re-organisation of material, cover design, scanning and/or restoration of photos, creation or adaptation of illustrations, and an eye for attractive layout. People have different expectations and Briar works within that if possible. She also has the skills and software to create e-books.

Briar's Books does not undertake marketing or distribution for authors. Most who seek her services are happy to use their own networks and PR initiatives to get the book to intended readers. Briar offers advice and help to people needing guidance. Go here for marketing suggestions.