Marjorie enjoys helping authors turn their book ideas into real publishing plans. With a warm and approachable style, she guides authors through their options, answers their questions, and makes the process feel clear and manageable. The best part of her job is hearing authors’ stories and helping them take their exciting first steps on their publishing journey.
Read on to learn more about Marjorie and her role at Tellwell!
Can you tell us a little about your role at Tellwell and what a typical day looks like for you?
As a publishing consultant at Tellwell, I get to talk to authors every day about their book ideas, which is honestly one of my favourite parts of the job. I help them understand how the publishing process works, what options they have, and what the next steps look like. Think of me as their first go-to person when they’re figuring things out.
A typical day for me is a mix of conversations, emails, and guidance. I spend a lot of time talking with authors about their goals, listening to their stories—my favourite part of every conversation—and helping them choose the best path for their book. I also co-ordinate with our team so that when an author is ready to move forward, everything goes smoothly.
Self-publishing can feel like an overwhelming journey for some authors. How do you help them feel informed and confident about the process?
Self-publishing can definitely feel overwhelming at first, and that’s exactly where my role comes in. I make sure authors never feel like they are navigating the process alone. From the very beginning, I guide them through each stage—editing, design, distribution, and marketing—in a way that is easy to understand and never rushed.
I focus on breaking things down step by step so authors know what to expect and when to expect it. I always encourage them to ask questions, even the ones they think are “silly.” In fact, I love when they ask questions because it tells me I’m doing my job well. I share examples and help them compare different options so they can confidently choose what feels right for their book.
Most importantly, I remind them that this is their journey. They are in control, and I’m here to guide and support them so they feel confident and excited about the road ahead. By the end of our conversation, my goal is for them to feel empowered, informed, and ready to take the next step with clarity rather than confusion.
How do you usually connect with authors who are exploring self-publishing for the first time?
I connect with first-time authors through friendly conversations, usually over a call or video chat. I listen to their ideas, answer their questions, and explain the publishing process in simple, clear terms.
Sometimes introducing self-publishing can be challenging, especially for authors who think we buy the copyright to their books or cover all publication costs. These authors often view self-publishing as vanity publishing, which I gently debunk. I take the time to show them the benefits of self-publishing and how empowering it can be to have a dedicated team supporting their journey while they retain full creative control of their books. I also stay available by email or messaging for follow-ups, making sure authors feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
What’s your approach to helping authors understand the publishing process and what to expect along the way?
I like to keep things clear and simple for authors. I usually start by walking them through the publishing process step by step, so they know what to expect, from editing and design to distribution and marketing.
I explain the options in everyday language, give examples, and answer all their questions, even the ones they think are small or silly. I also talk about timelines, costs, and key decisions so there are no surprises along the way.
My main goal is to make them feel supported and in control. I want authors to feel confident and excited about their book while knowing they have a team behind them to guide them every step of the way.
How do you help authors decide if Tellwell is the right fit for their publishing journey?
I don’t pressure authors to choose Tellwell after a consultation. In fact, I often encourage them to explore other self-publishing companies, especially if they feel our packages might be higher than others. I want them to compare options and see what feels right for their needs.
This approach helps authors feel empowered because they know they have the freedom to explore and make an informed decision. It also sends a message that Tellwell is confident in the value we provide and that authors are always welcome to come back when they are ready to work with us.
Can you share some ways you build relationships with authors and support them beyond the initial consultation?
Building strong relationships with authors is all about staying connected and being genuinely supportive. Beyond the initial consultation, I keep in touch through emails, calls, or video chats to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer resources that help them along the way.
I also make sure authors feel heard and understood. I listen to their goals, celebrate their milestones, and offer encouragement whenever they hit challenges. Whether it’s helping them make decisions about editing, design, or marketing, or simply being a sounding board for ideas, I aim to make their publishing journey feel collaborative and supported from start to finish.
At the end of the day, it’s about trust and partnership. Authors know they have someone who genuinely cares about their book and their success, not just the process.
What’s the most rewarding part of guiding authors through their publishing journey?
Seeing authors grow in confidence and excitement about their books. Many come to us unsure of what self-publishing really involves, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to guide them through the process, help them make informed decisions, and watch their vision start to take shape.
I love seeing the moment they realize their book is truly within reach—when they feel empowered, in control, and proud of the work they’ve created. Knowing that I played a part in helping them bring their story to life is genuinely the best part of the job
Are there common challenges authors face when starting out, and how do you help them navigate these?
Many authors feel overwhelmed or unsure when starting out, whether it’s about editing, design, costs, or reaching their audience. And I reassure them that what they feel is normalI. I help by breaking the process into clear steps, answering questions, and providing guidance so they feel confident and empowered. My goal is to make the journey less intimidating and more exciting from start to finish.
How do you celebrate authors’ milestones and successes along the way?
I love celebrating authors’ milestones because it’s a chance to recognize their hard work and dedication. Whether it’s completing a manuscript, finishing edits, or launching their book, I make it a point to acknowledge their achievements through personal messages, calls, or emails.
I also cheer them on and share in their excitement, making sure they feel proud and motivated to keep moving forward. For me, celebrating these moments is just as important as guiding them through the process and reinforcing that their journey is meaningful and that their success truly matters.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering self-publishing?
To embrace the process and take control of your story. Self-publishing gives you the freedom to retain creative control while having a team to support you every step of the way.
Do your research, ask questions, and explore your options, so you feel confident in the path you choose. Most importantly, trust in your vision and remember that your story is worth sharing.
Outside of work, what inspires you or keeps your passion for connecting with authors alive?
I find inspiration in stories, whether it’s books, personal experiences, or the creativity of people around me. I love seeing how ideas and stories can impact others, and that keeps my passion for connecting with authors alive.
I’m also inspired by the growth and courage of authors themselves. Witnessing someone take a step toward sharing their story, overcoming doubts, and believing in their work reminds me why I do what I do. It’s a constant reminder that every author’s journey is unique, and being part of that journey is truly rewarding.
