Publishing at speed: when timing matters, self-publishing works
For many authors, the biggest challenge is not writing the book, it is publishing it while the subject still matters.Traditional publishing can take years from submission to release. For time-sensitive work, political analysis, journalism, academic commentary, education, policy or current affairs, that delay can mean missing the moment entirely.
Self-publishing offers a practical alternative. Books can be edited, designed, printed and made available for global sale in weeks rather than months or years, allowing authors to respond to events as they unfold.
At Tricorn Books, we work with authors who need to publish quickly without compromising on quality, accuracy or professionalism.
Recent examples include political titles aimed at the UK A Level market, a sector where relevance and speed are critical, but the lessons apply far more widely.
Books by Nick Gallop (UK Politics 2026) and Simon Limieux (US Politics) moved from first contact to publication in under three weeks. Both titles reached their audience while the debate was still live and repaid their investment, moving into profit within weeks.
As one author explains:
‘The speed that a book can be brought to market is hugely appealing. The real challenge is quality. In our experience with Tricorn, their attention to detail meant we produced a work that was accurate and met our own standards.’
Crucially, self-publishing also allows authors to stay in control:
‘One of the greatest advantages was remaining in control of the process. The finished book stayed authentic while meeting professional production standards.’
For many authors, the decision comes down to priorities:
‘If your goal is getting a book you genuinely believe in out into the world, paying for reliability, expertise and peace of mind makes a real difference. It allows you to focus on the content itself.’
The shift towards self-publishing is not about bypassing standards. It is about matching the publishing process to the pace of modern ideas.
For anyone working with time-critical content, tight deadlines or first-to-market insight, self-publishing is no longer a compromise, it is often the most effective option.
Traditional publishing support, with real people at the other end
Self‑publishing doesn’t have to feel confusing, impersonal or sales‑driven. At Tricorn Books, you work with real people who take the time to listen, explain and support you properly, by phone, email or face‑to‑face.
We don’t use templates to design. We don’t pass you between departments. We build a publishing service around you and your book.
Call us on 02393 430038 or email info@tricornbooks.co.uk for a straightforward conversation about your project.
A personal approach to self‑publishing
Many authors come to us after feeling disappointed by automated services or one‑size‑fits‑all packages. We do things differently.
When you contact Tricorn Books, you speak directly to someone who understands publishing and takes a genuine interest in your work. We explain your options clearly, answer questions honestly and help you make informed decisions, without pressure.
Whether you’re publishing your first book or your fifth, you’ll be supported at every stage.
How we support authors
We offer practical, professional support across every part of the publishing process. You can use as much or as little help as you need.
- Editing and proofreading
- Book design, layout and illustration
- Printing and binding
- ISBNs and publishing guidance
- Amazon Print-on-Demand
Everything we do is tailored to your book, certainly not dropped into a pre‑set system.
How it works
- Talk to us
Give us a call or send an email. Tell us about your book, your goals and where you are in the process. - Clear guidance
We’ll explain your options in plain English and suggest a route that suits you, creatively and practically. - Ongoing support
From initial planning to publication and beyond, we stay involved and available.
Why authors choose Tricorn Books
- You deal with real people, not automated systems
- We respond by phone, email or in person
- No templates or generic packages
- Clear pricing and honest advice
- Decades of publishing experience
- Long‑term support, not quick turnover
Our reputation is built on relationships, not volume.
What our authors say
“We felt listened to from the first conversation. Nothing was rushed and the guidance from Dan was invaluable.”
“A professional service with a genuinely personal touch, exactly what we were looking for.”
Let’s talk about your book
If you’re considering self‑publishing and want proper guidance from people who care about doing it well, we’d be happy to talk.
📞 Call us on 02393 430038
📧 Email info@tricornbooks.co.uk
📝 Or send us a message and we’ll respond personally
There’s no obligation — just a straightforward conversation about your book and how we can help.📧
We are based in Portsmouth in the historic Treadgolds building, PO1 3DA
Offstage — The Pip Simmons Theatre Group
Offstage is a beautifully produced photography book by Sheila Burnett, capturing life with the Pip Simmons Theatre Group throughout the 1970s and 80s. With over 200 black-and-white images, it reveals rehearsal rooms, backstage moments, friendships and performances — a rare inside portrait of a groundbreaking company.
Order here nowDo you want to get your book off the ground but need some extra guidance?
Chat with us on 07786 184 505 or use this form to give us an idea of the scope of your project. The more detail you can give us now, the quicker we can get you started.
Tricorn Books are now based in Treadgolds, 1 Bishop St, Portsea, Portsmouth PO1 3DA
