What used to be a choice between traditional publishing and going it alone is starting to shift. More authors are now looking for something in between: expert support, without giving up control of their work.
That’s where UK-based assisted publishing house Jo Wildsmith Publishing is doing things differently.
Founded by publishing consultant Jo Wildsmith, Jo and her team work with authors who have completed their manuscripts, supporting them through the full publishing process and transforming them into professionally produced books.
Rather than handing over rights or royalties, authors retain full control of their work and benefit directly from its success.
“It’s not that authors don’t want support. They absolutely do,” says Jo Wildsmith. “But they also want to keep hold of what they’ve created. For many, that book represents many months or years of work. It’s something that matters deeply to them. It should stay theirs.”
A More Considered Approach to Publishing
From the outset, Jo Wildsmith Publishing has focused on creating a more tailored, high-quality experience for authors. The publishing process is fully managed, including formatting, proofreading, and multi-platform distribution, with options to expand into audiobooks, premium print formats, direct book sales, and bespoke editions such as coffee table books.
For authors who require additional editorial input, professional editing is available as an optional service, alongside access to trusted writing coaches where needed.
Beyond the technical side, the process is designed to feel collaborative rather than transactional. Authors are guided through key decisions and remain creatively involved throughout.
“There’s a real difference between being ‘processed’ and being supported,” Jo adds. “We take the time to get it right, because our authors are trusting us with something very special to them.”
Looking Beyond the Book Itself
Alongside production, authors are also given a clear nine-month framework to help them build up to their book’s release and maintain momentum after publication. While the publishing process itself is fully managed, the framework offers clear guidance on how authors can continue building visibility and sharing their work over time.
It reflects a wider shift in how books are being used, not just as standalone projects, but as part of a bigger picture, whether that’s building a business, growing an audience, or creating something lasting.
Jo Wildsmith self-published her first books over 15 years ago. With a strong background in sales and print on demand, she has built the business around a simple idea: authors shouldn’t have to choose between quality and control.
As more writers look for a publishing route that offers both, assisted publishing is gaining ground, and Jo Wildsmith Publishing is part of a new wave raising expectations of what that experience can look like.
Website: https://jowildsmith.com/.
Email: hello@jowildsmith.com.
