All the Trends and Tools You Need to Know!

2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years of transformation for the publishing industry ever.

From groundbreaking AI tools to massive shifts in traditional publishing models, authors like you are navigating a wide range of challenges and exciting opportunities. 

This is also why I recently hosted some of the leading experts in the publishing industry (and more of them are coming up here) Jane Friedman, Dale L. Roberts, and Andrea Fleck-Nisbet to explore the trends that you need to follow.

This is what you need to know to succeed with your project in the year ahead.

The Trends Changing the Publishing Industry Right Now

Hybrid Collaborations: The Best of Both Worlds

The publishing industry is changing their approach to partnering with authors in a big way.

The good news? A partnership gives authors like you access to wider retail markets while still retaining control over your digital rights. 

Deals like this just weren’t possible in the past and traditional publishers weren’t as interested in them.

As a great example, check out Bloom Books, an imprint of Sourcebooks backed by Penguin Random House.

So what will this mean for you?

Hybrid collaborations will open doors for authors who have proven their market potential and want help scaling their success.

It’s a completely new type of marketplace.

AI’s (Obviously) Changing the Game

So, is it worth the hype yet?

Kind of…

But maybe not in the way you think.

AI is driving advances in translation, drafting, and audiobook production which makes publishing a lot more accessible. But there are a lot of warning flags popping up when it comes to copyright and author rights.

This is why tools like Created by Humans are helping ensure authors are compensated when their work is used to train AI models.

The legal and ethical battles over AI are still ongoing, which means it’s not going to be settled for a while yet.

Most importantly, while the technology is improving rapidly, it still lacks the nuanced touch of a human creator.

Should you be ignoring AI completely? Absolutely not. However, you should be carefully considering where and when to use it appropriately. 

The Market Is Consolidating

In not so great news, many smaller distributors are starting to collapse.

This consolidation means narrowed options for indie authors and small presses while shifting the balance of power to larger distributors.

As a sad example, take a look at what recently happened with Diamond Comics.

What this means for you is that you likely won’t find as many options as you have in previous years.

The Opportunities You Need to Take Advantage of in 2025

It’s Easier than Ever to Engage Directly with Your Readers or Community

Your email list is still your most important asset and it’s more than a marketing tool—it’s your VIP lounge for building lasting connections. 

Authors and publishers are building communities on social platforms that go beyond a single book sale.

This means you should be thinking of yourself as a community leader from the start.

Genre Interest is Shifting into Escapist Fiction and Reader Comfort (But Don’t Just Chase the Trends)

Readers are seeking comfort in uncertain times.

This means that genres like Cozy Fantasy are exploding in popularity. Think of it as your literary equivalent of a warm blanket and a cup of tea—hobbits optional. This trend of stories with low stakes and high vibes shows no signs of slowing.

But, while it’s tempting to jump on a bandwagon, authenticity really matters. 

Writing what resonates with you and your audience is far more sustainable than chasing fleeting trends and will make it easier for you to maintain your community as discussed above.

You Have Access to More Data and Sales Opportunities Than Ever

Platforms like Benevity, LaterPress, and BookVault empower authors to sell directly to readers, retain higher royalties, and gather invaluable data about their audiences.

The great part:  you get access to more data than you’ve ever had before!

Unlike traditional platforms like Amazon and Ingram, which only give you limited insights, direct sales platforms give you a clear view of your customers and buying trends.

Owning this data helps you:

• Make smarter marketing decisions.
• Build stronger connections with readers.
• Optimize pricing and promotional strategies.

More and more, it's up to you to keep control of your list, sales, and community.

The tools are more accessible than ever.

Don’t Forget About Crowdfunding!

Crowdfunding may seem like it has come and gone, but that’s far from the case.

Kickstarter and other platforms are offering authors ways to fund your project while building excitement, community, and engagement the whole time.

For example, one author used Kickstarter to fund an entire national speaking tour while promoting their book—which changed the entire model of their launch.

Even When the Industry Changes, the Possibilities Are Still Huge

You’ll notice a theme in all of these points – expansion.

Yes, the model that has existed forever is going through a rude awakening. What most people think of when it comes to publishing doesn’t exist in the same way as before.

But, publishing in 2025 is still a world of possibilities. 

And there’s still nothing quite like the impact of a book.

The future of publishing isn’t just about trends—it’s about how you as a leader, author, and creator tell stories that matter to your audience.

Want to see the entire hour with our expert panel? Watch it here!

I can’t wait to see what you create next.

What most surprised you, or what do you still want to know? Let us know your thoughts below!

About Tina Dietz:

Tina Dietz is an award-winning and internationally acclaimed speaker, audiobook publisher, podcast producer, and vocal leadership expert whose work and shows have been featured on media outlets including ABC, NBC, CBS, The Wall Street Journal and Chicago Tribune, Inc.com, and Forbes. She’s been named one of the top podcasters for entrepreneurs by INC.com, and Tina’s company, Twin Flames Studios, re-imagines thought leadership through podcasting and audiobooks for experts, executives, and founders.