About Us
About Us
Forlorn Hope Publishing is your trusted partner in professional publishing. We are dedicated to empowering aspiring authors, emerging writers, and anyone with a passion for the written word and across various fields including fiction, healthcare, and professional services to finally achieve the most elusive of bucket-list goals: a published book.
Our mission is to provide to provide direct, transparent publishing solutions that help you achieve publishing success – as you define it. Founded in 2015 by Roland Hicks, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality publishing services with a personal touch.
Company History
Forlorn Hope came about after a series of emails and a one-hour turned most of the afternoon conversation over coffee in Middletown, CT between Pulitzer Prize winning author Tony Horwitz and Forlorn Hope Founder Roland Hicks.
Tony discussed his well-publicized dismay at the state of the publishing industry (he wrote a NY Times op-ed piece shortly after). At some point, he mentioned how, if he were starting his career from scratch, he’d take advantage of technology, print on demand, and social media and publish himself. With some tech-savvy friends.
At the time, Roland was in the early stages of going through three agents—the gatekeepers of the traditional publishing industry—in five years. It wasn’t [necessarily] him; they all walked away from the industry.
When a legal writing client contacted him about ‘finally writing that book I’ve been thinking about,” the path seemed clear—let's write and publish it ourselves! We did, it worked, everyone liked the results, we did another book, then another. Now, with our partners at Activate Digital Media, we do it all—write, design, package, and market.
From the start in 2015, Forlorn Hope Publishing has had a simple goal: to make professional publishing accessible to authors from all walks of life. We envisioned a company that not only provided top-notch publishing services but also supported authors throughout the entire publishing journey. Over the years, we have expanded our services and built a team of experts who share Roland’s passion for helping authors succeed.
Mission and Vision
We help people become authors. We do everything needed to do so . . . except share in their royalties.
Forlorn Hope Publishing’s mission is simple: to empower authors by providing professional, transparent, and effective publishing solutions. We believe in the power of storytelling and do whatever we can to help aspiring authors share their expertise and creativity with the world. Our vision is to become a leading independent publisher known for our commitment to quality, integrity, and author satisfaction.
Follow us on Substack: Forlorn Hope Publishing
Roland Hicks, Founder & CEO
Roland brings over a decade of experience in the publishing industry. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping Forlorn Hope Publishing into a trusted partner for authors. He writes at Scandalous & Impertinent, where you will find an explanation of his avatar (because he really doesn't look like Edmond O'Brien's character in White Heat . . . well, maybe a little).
Charlotte G, Head of Editorial
With a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling, Charlotte ensures that every manuscript is polished to perfection. Her expertise in editing and ghostwriting is invaluable to our authors.
Victor H, Marketing Director
Victor H and Activate Digital Marketing specialize in digital marketing strategies that help our authors reach their target audiences. From social media campaigns to email marketing, they create customized plans that drive book sales and engagement.
Our Publishing Process
We work with firms and individuals to create a ‘real book’, something that stands apart from the Q&A layout ‘books’ rolling off the ‘you-too-can-be-an-author’ conveyor belts.
At Forlorn Hope Publishing, we have developed a streamlined publishing process designed to make your journey from manuscript to published book as smooth as possible.
Your Manuscript
You may have an idea, notes compiled over years, a dusty outline, or an ‘almost’ completed manuscript. Whatever shape it’s in (or not) we take your idea or content and work with you to refine it.
Ghostwriting/Editing
Our professional ghostwriters and editors work with you to enhance your work, ensuring it is of the highest quality.
Publishing Preparation
We handle all the technical aspects, including ISBNs, formatting, cover design, and online platform setup (Amazon KDP, Barnes & Noble, etc.).
Launch & Marketing
We create a customized marketing plan, build author websites, and execute social media and email campaigns to get your book noticed.
Royalties & Management
You earn royalties directly from sales platforms and your website, with ongoing support from our team for platform management.
Our Specialized Focus
Fiction (Novels)
We help bring your stories to life with advice, consultation, professional editing, and comprehensive marketing strategies.
Healthcare Writing
Share your medical knowledge and insights with a wider audience through our specialized healthcare publishing services.
Professional Services
Elevate your brand and establish authority in your field with our professional publishing solutions.
Why Choose Forlorn Hope Publishing?
Expertise
Our team has extensive experience in publishing and marketing, ensuring your book is of the highest quality.
Transparency
Our fees are clear, concise, and transparent. As will be every step of the way along your publishing travels.
Partnership
We work closely with you as a partner, not just a service provider, to achieve your publishing goals.
Success
We are committed to your book’s success and your satisfaction, providing ongoing support even after your book is published.
At Forlorn Hope Publishing, we believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of clear communication. We are here to support you every step of the way, from your initial manuscript to your first book sale and beyond. Join us and let’s make your publishing dreams a reality.
Join Our Author Community!
Got questions about your account or book marketing? Don't hesitate to reach out for advice or share your insights with budding authors.
Start Your Publishing Journey Now
For more information about our services or to discuss your publishing needs, please reach out to us:
Phone Number
Business Hours
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (EST)
Have a question or need more information?
At Forlorn Hope Publishing, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your publishing goals. Our comprehensive book marketing services are designed to increase your book’s visibility, engage your target audience, and drive sales. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you promote your book and build your author brand.
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