In 2009, New Forest Books began in New Hampshire as a home-based business run by Todd Richardson and his wife, Eibhlin (aka Aisling D’Art).
At that time, this was an innovative concept. As far as we could tell, our business model was unique.
We charged nothing for our editing and pre-press services. Our fee was 10% of the cover price (or $1 per copy, whichever was less) for each book sold. If our authors didn’t earn money, we didn’t earn money.
That worked well for the first few years. Then, our priorities shifted as automation and software made publishing less confusing.
In 2017, we changed our business model and became a co-op. Since then, a new management team – Joe and Mary Fabella – have overseen most of our day-to-day operations.
In addition, Jane Christmas helps with ads and marketing.
As of late 2025, we’ve added author Shannon Bowen to our team. She’s editing some of our newer nonfiction books.
Today, we’re still an indie author co-op. We work with a limited number of authors and illustrators by invitation only.
Here’s what we do, as a co-op
- Brainstorm book ideas.
- Encourage each other through the writing process.
- Proofread and edit final drafts. (We recommend software such as Grammarly for initial editing. We do not recommend relying upon AI.)
- Help friends work with book cover designers*. (We’re not enthusiastic about AI. Originality – and the human touch – often stand out, making books more relatable.)
- Talk new authors through their first books for publishing in print and digital formats.
- Help them upload their books to a variety of distribution options.
*One of New Forest’s co-owners, Eileen (“Eibhlin”) Morey, has been designing book covers since the 1980s. Today, she still works with selected authors, particularly those publishing one or more book series.
FAQs
Where does the name “New Forest Books” come from?
New Forest is among our favorite areas in southwest England. We also like the tree reference since our publishing focus includes digital books that can save paper and trees.
Why do your older books list CreateSpace as the publisher?
Nearly two decades ago, CreateSpace was among the publishing service names launched by Amazon.com. Today, most people recognize that service as KDP.
Those Amazon services make it easy for us to transfer books to our individual authors – at no charge – when they’re ready to become fully independent.
Who are your authors?
Past and current authors are listed on our Authors page.
What other authors have you published?
Past friends and associates have included photographer Steve Wells, ghost excavator John Sabol, medium Lesley Marden, and fine artist Marcus McAllister. We were honored to work with them early in their publishing careers and value their continued friendships.
Are you looking for new authors?
Not at this time.
If you’re ready to be published and need formatting help, we recommend Atticus.io, created by our friend Dave Chesson. We encourage authors to explore his other products, including Publisher Rocket.
You may also find help at book distributors such as Draft2Digital.com. Many will work with you on a commission basis—sometimes in addition to a nominal annual fee—and submit your books to a variety of worldwide outlets.
In addition, Joe and Mary manage a consulting firm for author services.
That’s separate from New Forest Books, and made available to authors as a concierge service. However, as of 2026, the Fabellas have a long wait list and are not accepting new applications.)