Episode Overview

In Episode 7 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with award-winning romance author, publisher, and CEO of Inkspell Publishing, Melissa Keir, for an honest conversation about one of the most misunderstood paths in the publishing industry: small press publishing.

Many aspiring authors believe there are only two options when pursuing publication—landing a deal with one of the Big Five publishers or publishing independently. Melissa shares why the reality is far more nuanced and how independent publishers provide a collaborative, professional alternative that can be the perfect fit for many writers.

Together, Julie and Melissa discuss what publishers are really looking for, the business realities of being an author, the importance of finding the publishing path that aligns with your goals, and why success should never be measured by someone else's journey.

Whether you're querying agents, considering self-publishing, researching small presses, or simply curious about how the publishing industry works, this episode offers valuable insight into today's evolving publishing landscape.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

• Melissa shares how a lifelong love of storytelling eventually led her to launch Inkspell Publishing and support other authors in bringing their stories to life.
• A behind-the-scenes look at the early days of creating an independent publishing house and the challenges—and rewards—of growing a collaborative publishing company.
• Why small press publishing fills an important space between traditional publishing and self-publishing, and how authors can determine which path best fits their goals.
• Melissa addresses common misconceptions about independent publishers and explains what writers often misunderstand about the publishing process.
• It's more than a great manuscript. Melissa discusses the qualities that make authors stand out and what helps create successful long-term publishing partnerships.
• An honest conversation about why today's authors need to think beyond writing and embrace the business side of building a successful career.
• Julie and Melissa discuss why communication, collaboration, and shared expectations are essential to a healthy publishing experience.
• Every author's career looks different. Melissa shares why comparison can become one of the biggest obstacles to enjoying the publishing journey.
• From industry trends to emerging opportunities, Melissa offers her perspective on where independent publishing is headed in the years ahead.

Key Takeaways for Writers

• There is no one-size-fits-all publishing path.

• Small press publishing offers a collaborative alternative between traditional and self-publishing.

• A successful publishing career requires both creativity and business thinking.

• Publishers invest in authors—not just manuscripts.

• Healthy communication strengthens the author-publisher relationship.

• Comparing your publishing journey to someone else's only distracts from your own goals.

• Success should be defined by your personal vision—not industry expectations.

Guest Spotlight: Melissa Keir

Melissa Keir is an award-winning and bestselling romance author and the CEO of Inkspell Publishing. As both an author and publisher, she has helped more than eighty writers bring their books into the world while building a collaborative publishing home focused on supporting authors throughout every stage of the publishing journey.

Through Inkspell Publishing, Melissa continues to champion compelling storytelling, strong author relationships, and the belief that there are many successful paths to becoming a published writer.

About the ShowJust Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen both their craft and their confidence through conversations with authors, publishing professionals, creatives, and industry experts.