Submit Your Manuscript to Cynren Press
stewardship pathway
We like humans.
As a boutique publisher of the human story, we’re drawn to work that reveals, reimagines, or reframes the histories that have shaped us. If your manuscript deepens our understanding of the lived experience—past or present—we invite you to submit to Cynren Press.
Grounded in history. Curated with care.
Cynren Press is an award-winning traditional publisher that engages history with a long view. We publish from both privileged and underrepresented perspectives, with the intent to place them in conversation. At Cynren, we believe that every history has something to contribute to the shared human story.
The Stewardship publishing pathway at Cynren Press
A boutique, collaborative publishing pathway for exceptional manuscripts that align with our vision but fall outside the limits of our traditional list.
What the stewardship pathway Is
Cynren’s Stewardship Pathway (SP) is a curated, collaborative publishing model for manuscripts that resonate deeply with Cynren’s editorial sensibility—books with strong voices, meaningful purpose, and real craft—but that cannot be taken on our traditional list due to list size, timing, or financial constraints. Manuscripts are submitted by the normal route; SP is considered only after a blind editorial evaluation and indicated author interest in the pathway.
WHAT the stewardship pathway IS NOT
SP is not self-publishing.
SP is not a production package.
SP is not a vanity press model.
It is a true publisher–author partnership, built on shared investment and shared belief in the book.
We created the stewardship pathway to say yes! to books we love.
As a small press, we sometimes encounter incredible manuscripts—beautiful, bold, unforgettable work—that isn’t possible for us to take on traditionally. SP allows us to bring those books into the world with the same craft, care, and editorial partnership while sharing the investment required to produce them well.
It is how we say yes to books we admire but cannot feasibly fund through our traditional list.
the stewardship pathway is a great fit for authors who
want the guidance and relationship of a real publisher, not a DIY route
want to publish with editorial depth and boutique attention
want professional bookmaking—design, editing, production—without managing it alone
value thoughtful, human-centered collaboration
understand the financial realities of independent publishing
SP is for authors who want the Cynren experience, even if their book cannot be taken on the fully traditional list.
the stewardship pathway (and Cynren, for that matter) is not a fit for authors who
want rapid publication without editorial work
want to retain complete design control
expect guaranteed sales or promotional outcomes
are primarily seeking the lowest-cost option
are uncomfortable with a collaborative editing process
want a transactional, package-style hybrid press
Because SP is a selective, boutique pathway, we only invite projects that are a sincere editorial fit for Cynren.
How We Select stewardship pathway Manuscripts
SP is considered during our normal submission process, using the same editorial lens and standards we apply to all manuscripts.
Our general submissions portal allows authors to specify whether they wish to be considered for traditional publication, for SP, or for both.
All submissions are evaluated BLINDLY in the first stage. We review each manuscript solely on its craft, without knowing whether the author selected traditional or Stewardship publication. Pathway information is reviewed ONLY after the editorial assessment is complete.
When a manuscript aligns with Cynren’s editorial vision but cannot be placed on our traditional list because of list capacity, timing, or financial limitations AND (we later determine that) the author has indicated a preference for or openness to our Stewardship Pathway, we may extend an SP offer.
Indicating interest in SP does not affect the blind evaluation or improve/decrease the chances of acceptance for either pathway. It simply tells us whether we may contact you about SP after the editorial review is complete.
Cynren considers Stewardship Pathway books only when a manuscript naturally fits our editorial vision.
What You Receive (Same as Traditional)
The Stewardship Pathway includes the complete production of your book, from editorial through design to distribution.
Editorial
Developmental editing as needed
Line editing as needed
Copy editing
Proofreading
Author guidance and support throughout
Design & Production
Custom cover design
Interior typesetting and layout
Accessible ebook conversion
ARC preparation
Distribution & Metadata
Full worldwide distribution to the trade (brick & mortar stores, libraries, gift shops)
Availability on Amazon, B&N, and other retailer websites
Seasonal catalog inclusion
Metadata development
Marketing Integration
Cynren-branded ARC distribution
Title sheet and metadata support
Social media marketing and buzz building
Integration into Cynren’s seasonal promotions where appropriate
Author Partnership
You work directly with our publisher. You receive thoughtful communication, clarity, and transparency at each stage. This is the same experience our traditional authors receive.
Investment
STEWARDSHIP PATHWAY Fee: $9,500
(single, all-inclusive fee)
no upsells
no tiers
no add-on packages
no surprise invoices
Your investment covers the actual cost of producing a high-quality, professionally published book with the full infrastructure of Cynren behind it.
Royalties & terms
Royalties are substantial: 65% of net for print books; 75% of net for ebooks.
Terms are four years, renewable.
we want to champion more compelling books than our traditional list alone can support.
If you believe your book belongs at Cynren, we invite you to submit. We treat every manuscript with care, curiosity, and respect.