An author who publishes through both traditional publishers and self-publishing, strategically using each path for different projects.
A hybrid author splits their publishing output between traditional publishers and self-publishing. This isn't about hedging bets or being indecisive. It's a deliberate strategy. A hybrid author might publish their main series traditionally for the bookstore distribution and credibility, while self-publishing novellas, backlist titles, or genre experiments that don't fit their publisher's catalog. The approach requires understanding both worlds well enough to leverage the strengths of each.
The publishing landscape isn't an either/or choice anymore. Many successful authors have discovered that different books benefit from different publishing paths. A literary novel might thrive with a traditional publisher's editorial prestige and review coverage, while a genre series might earn more through self-publishing's higher royalty rates and faster release schedule. Knowing the hybrid model exists means you don't have to commit to one path for your entire career.
Howey self-published the ebooks and negotiated a print-only deal with Simon & Schuster. He kept his digital rights, earning higher royalties on the format where he sold best. This deal became a landmark example of hybrid publishing.
Sanderson publishes his main epic fantasy through Tor Books but ran a record-breaking Kickstarter to self-publish four surprise novels. He uses each path for what it does best.
Penn publishes thrillers independently under J.F. Penn while traditionally publishing nonfiction about the writing business. She's one of the most vocal advocates for the hybrid model and documents her journey openly.
Master one publishing path first. You need to understand what traditional publishers offer and what self-publishing demands before you can strategically combine them.
Be strategic about what goes where. Don't self-publish a book in the same series or genre at the same time your traditional publisher is launching something. Coordinate your releases.
Read your traditional publishing contract carefully. Many include non-compete or next-book clauses that restrict what you can self-publish and when. Get an agent or lawyer to review these.
Look at your current projects and ideas. Make two columns: one labeled 'Traditional' and one labeled 'Self-Publish.' Sort each project into the column where it would benefit most, considering factors like genre expectations, your timeline, whether you want creative control over the cover, and how important bookstore placement is for that specific book.