Frequently Asked Questions
At Westbrae Literary Group, we believe in championing diverse, authentic voices that reflect the complexities of contemporary life. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our mission, what we publish, and how we collaborate with authors. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
What kind of writing does WLG publish?
We are looking for authors, writing in English, who live here in America and experience America in all its complexities. Our focus is on contemporary voices that capture the diverse experiences and perspectives of life in America today.
Why should you choose to publish with WLG?
Because your voice matters — not just to you, but to readers who want honest, contemporary writing that reflects real life in America today. Westbrae exists to champion writers outside the traditional academic pipeline: artists with heart, clarity, grit, and something to say.
We publish with care and craft, working closely with our authors to present their work beautifully in print and digital formats. Distribution is fast and far-reaching: our titles are available worldwide through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing, and bookstores and libraries can order through Ingram.
If you want your work handled with respect, intention, and a genuine belief in its value, Westbrae is a home for you.
Who owns the copyright?
You do! WLG is not interested in amassing copyrights. We are interested in making an impact on readers and writing. We hope you stay with us and we'll work hard to make you a happy author, but you can always leave anytime and take your work with you.
How does Westbrae distribute its books and the Journal?
We publish through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), which allows us to produce high-quality print-on-demand books quickly and reliably. Titles can ship to readers within 48 hours, and the print quality is excellent.
We also distribute through Ingram, the leading wholesaler for bookstores and libraries. This means any independent bookstore, academic store, or library can order Westbrae titles directly through their standard Ingram channels.
This dual approach gives our authors fast global reach while keeping our books accessible to traditional booksellers.
What is the royalty rate for books?
At Westbrae Literary Group, we believe in providing fair compensation to our authors. When you choose to publish with us, you can expect transparent royalty rates that ensure you retain the majority of the earnings from your book sales. We'll use most of the percentage coming to WLG for promoting your book. Here’s how our royalty system works.
Royalty Rates Overview — an example of a 100-page paperback, 5×8 trim size.
- Amazon.com
- List Price: $17.99
- Printing Cost: $2.30
- Amazon Royalty Rate: 60%
- Your Earnings: $8.49 ($17.99 × 60% - $2.30)
- Westbrae Fee (20%): $1.70
- Your Final Royalty: $6.79
- Expanded Distribution (Other Retailers)
- Royalty Rate: 40%
- Your Earnings: $4.90
- Westbrae Fee (20%): $0.98
- Your Final Royalty: $3.92
Do Journal contributors receive payment for their work?
We don’t currently offer monetary payment for contributions. The Journal is designed as a space to highlight writers and artists, introduce them to new audiences, and celebrate their creative work in print. Contributors retain full copyright to their pieces, receive complimentary copies of the issue, and are welcome to publish their work elsewhere. Many Journal contributors also become Westbrae authors, and publication in the Journal often helps readers discover their voice.
For full details, you can read our Contributor Agreement here.
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