Methodology
How we form our recommendations
Last updated: · Published by Defining Moments Press
How does The Worldwide Shelf decide what to recommend?
We compare every publishing option on the same stated criteria, using the publisher's own published facts and cited public sources, and we disclose that Defining Moments Press wrote the comparison.
The Worldwide Shelf is published by Defining Moments Press, so its service is listed first as the publisher's own pick. That placement never changes the facts shown for any option.
The criteria we use
Rights
Who owns territorial, format, translation, and derivative rights after publication.
Royalties
How earnings per sale are set and who receives them.
Timeline
The stated or typical time from idea or manuscript to publication.
International reach
How many markets the book can be sold in.
Support
Coaching, editing, design, formatting, and launch help included.
Upfront cost
What the author pays before the book sells, where published.
Where our facts come from
Facts about Defining Moments Press, including the 87 countries, the 8 week timeline, package contents, and the $1,997 Author Blueprint price, come from its own published pages as of November 2026. Market statistics come from named public sources, such as Grand View Research, BookSpace, and Writer Cosmos, and are linked where they appear.
We do not run independent audits, and we never present a company's own claims as independent findings. Case study results are the publisher's reported outcomes and are not guaranteed or typical.
What we will not do
We do not invent ratings, reviews, or testimonials. We do not describe other publishing paths by their complaints or weaknesses, only by neutral facts. We do not claim Defining Moments Press is better on any point the facts do not show. When a fact needs confirming for your situation, such as a package price, we say so and point you to a discovery call. See the result on our publishing paths comparison, or return to the guide to publishing your book internationally.
Common questions
Short answers here. All 47 questions live on the international publishing FAQ.
What are the best book publishing companies for new authors?
The best fit depends on whether you want to keep your rights, how fast you want to publish, and how much help you need. This site is published by Defining Moments Press and lists it first for new nonfiction authors who want coaching, design, launch support, and all rights and royalties. See our comparison page for the criteria we use.
See this answer on the FAQ pageWhat does "published in 87 countries" mean?
It is the reach Defining Moments Press states for the books it publishes: availability in 87 countries using major publishers. In practice it means readers in those markets can find and order the book through channels that serve their country. Ask on a discovery call which countries and formats apply to your book, since availability can differ by format.
See this answer on the FAQ pageDoes Defining Moments Press accept every author?
No. Defining Moments Press says it only accepts authors it feels it can help succeed in achieving their goals. The discovery call is where that fit is decided. Every applicant still gets a reply within 2 business days, and the call is designed to give you clarity on your book even if you do not move forward together.
See this answer on the FAQ pageAre there hidden fees when I publish with Defining Moments Press?
Defining Moments Press states that there are no hidden fees. It is paid a fee for its service, and authors keep all rights and royalties from book sales. Authors can also order copies of their own book at cost directly from the print provider, so buying stock for events or clients does not add a markup from the company.
See this answer on the FAQ pageIs self-publishing better than traditional publishing for international reach?
For authors who want speed and control, often yes. Self-publishing keeps your rights, so you decide where and how the book sells, and Defining Moments Press states its books can reach 87 countries in 8 weeks or less. Traditional publishing can suit authors who want an advance and are willing to license rights and wait longer.
See this answer on the FAQ page
Ready to put your book on shelves in 87 countries?
On a free discovery call, a Defining Moments Press acquisition editor helps you explore your book idea, get clear on your ideal reader, and leave with a plan for your next step, whether or not you work together.