Welcome to
Sabrestorm Stories.
We are delighted to have you here, where words come to life and stories find their home. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just beginning your writing journey, we are here to support and empower you every step of the way.
Explore our range of services and discover the tools you need to bring your book to the world. Your journey to publishing success starts here!
Happy writing.
Our Publishing Services.
Assisted Publishing
At Sabrestorm Stories, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to support authors at every stage of their publishing journey. From expert advice on crafting compelling narratives to meticulous editing that polishes your manuscript to perfection, we are here to help you bring your vision to life. We guide you through the intricate process of bringing your book to market, ensuring that your work receives the attention it deserves. Additionally, we provide personalised tuition to sharpen your writing skills and offer opportunities to connect with other authors through our engaging events. Whatever your needs may be, we’re committed to empowering you on your path to publishing success.
Investing in publishing services can be a game-changer for authors, offering numerous benefits that streamline the journey from manuscript to published book. By paying for publishing services, authors gain access to professional guidance and support every step of the way. From expert advice on refining their manuscript to high-quality editing that ensures their work is polished and error-free, authors can feel confident that their book is in capable hands.
Sabrestorm Stories saves authors valuable time and energy, allowing them to focus on what they do best: writing. We help authors navigate the complex world of publishing with ease, increase the visibility of their work, and ultimately, increase their chances of success in the competitive book market.
What our Authors say.
“I was so pleased to have been introduced to Sabrestorm Stories by another author and I instantly warmed to Penny Legg with her encouraging, friendly yet professional style. As an editor, Penny gave very valuable feedback such as highlighting where additional information or clarification was required in certain areas or perhaps considering the use of more modern or alternative language in a particular phrase. Penny and Ian also helped me navigate my way through the whole production and publishing process, which was completely new to me, and I was absolutely delighted to end up with a book plus a cover that I was totally thrilled with and about which I have received many compliments. What impressed me the most about working with Penny and Ian was that it felt like a partnership; whilst I had the benefit of their professional expertise, their suggestions were never rigidly imposed and I still felt empowered to make choices and decisions, all of us collaborating to “make the book the best it could be’.”
Pauline Doyle, Author ‘A Spiritual Odyssey’
It was an incredibly enriching journey working with Sabrestorm Stories on our book during the pandemic. Their professionalism, dedication, and genuine care in helping us create the book we envisioned made all the difference. We truly appreciated their support every step of the way.
Dr Ling Eleanor Zhang, Editor of ‘Spouses of the World’
Sign up to our newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletter for occasional updates, publishing news and insights from behind the scenes at Sabrestorm Stories. You’ll also receive a free PDF guide to publishing, offering practical guidance for authors considering their next steps. We keep our emails thoughtful and relevant — and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Books we’ve published.
Our list brings together distinctive fiction and thoughtful non-fiction, developed in close collaboration with our authors. Every Sabrestorm Stories book reflects a commitment to strong editorial standards, careful design and clear, professional production — creating books that are crafted to be read, shared and enjoyed.
Reviews.
BT – Verified Purchaser
5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful discovery
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 September 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book and completed it in a few days. It was so encouraging and heart warming to see how Pauline was attentive and obedient to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and I was amazed to see where he led her through those years. I think she is a faithful woman of God and she served him no matter how surprising the request was.
Marina Wheeler
I offer my congratulations to all those who have contributed to this volume and I warmly commend their stories.
David P – Verified purchaser
5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect for daily readings? Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 August 2023
I loved this book. I love the short reflections which would make it ideal for daily readings to reflect on yourself.
I loved the insight into how God has been at work in one woman’s life.
Thank you Pauline for taking the effort to make notes along the way and for writing them down for us to read.
Yours seems like an exceptional story but I just wonder whether all of us could experience God at work in the ways you describe if we learned to hear the voice of God.
I also loved the distinct change of pace in the final section about how you coped with your husband Tom’s illness. I think this will resonate with anyone who has cared for a relative.
I also liked having pictures sprinkled throughout the book rather than being stuck in the middle as they often are.
Great work.
Jonathan Sweet
Anyone who wants a proper understanding of
what it’s like to be a diplomatic partner in today’s world should look no further than the profound, insightful and, above all, deeply personal experiences recounted here.
FAQs.
What is an ethical partner-publishing company?
An ethical partner-publishing company, such as Sabrestorm Stories, operates on principles that prioritise transparency, fairness, and integrity in its dealings with authors and other stakeholders. Here’s what typically characterises an ethical partner-publishing company:
- Quality Services: Offers high-quality editorial, design, marketing, and distribution services. Ensures that the books they publish meet professional standards.
- Author Ownership: Allows authors to retain significant rights to their work, including copyright and creative control, where possible.
- Ethical Marketing: Uses honest and effective marketing strategies. Avoids making false promises about sales potential or market reach.
- Supportive Environment: Provides guidance and support throughout the publishing process, fostering a collaborative relationship rather than a transactional one.
- Fair Pricing: Charges reasonable fees for services provided and offers good value for money. Avoids overcharging or upselling unnecessary services.
- Reputation and Accountability: Has a positive reputation among authors and within the industry. Addresses any issues or complaints promptly and professionally.
By adhering to these principles, an ethical partner-publishing company ensures a mutually beneficial relationship with authors, where both parties are respected and valued.
Do I have to pay to publish with Sabrestorm Stories?
Yes, authors pay for the services provided. This model is sometimes referred to as hybrid publishing because it combines elements of traditional publishing and self-publishing. Here’s a breakdown of how it works at Sabrestorm Stories:
- Service Fees: Authors pay upfront or in instalments for services, such as editing, cover design, formatting and distribution. The cost can vary depending on the specific needs of the book. We discuss what is needed with our authors and then tailor our offer to these needs.
- Retained Rights: Unlike traditional publishing where the publisher often retains a significant portion of the rights and royalties, Sabrestorm Stories allows authors to retain more control over their work and a higher percentage of the royalties.
- Quality and Professionalism: Because authors are paying for services, they can expect a certain level of quality and professionalism. Sabrestorm Stories ensures that your book meets industry standards.
- Transparency: Sabrestorm Stories is transparent about our pricing, the services included, and any additional costs that may arise during the publishing process.
- Investment in Success: While authors are investing their own money upfront, the goal of Sabrestorm Stories is to support the author’s success. This can include offering advice on marketing and employing distribution networks that authors might not have access to if they self-publish.
In summary, you do have to pay to publish your book, but in return, you get professional services and support that can significantly enhance the quality and reach of your work. This model can be particularly appealing for authors who want the benefits of professional publishing without giving up creative control or a large share of their royalties.
Why should an author publish with Sabrestorm Stories?
Publishing with Sabrestorm Stories can be an attractive option for many authors due to several advantages. Here are some reasons why an author might choose to come to us:
- Professional Services: Sabrestorm Stories provides access to professional editing, design, and formatting services, ensuring that the final product meets industry standards.
- Creative Control: Authors retain more control over their work compared to traditional publishing. They can make key decisions about the content, cover design, and marketing strategy.
- Higher Royalties: Authors receive a larger share of the royalties compared to traditional publishing, where publishers typically take a significant percentage.
- Support and Guidance: Sabrestorm Stories offers comprehensive support throughout the publishing process, which can be particularly beneficial for first-time authors or those unfamiliar with the intricacies of publishing.
- Transparency: Ethical partner-publishing companies like Sabrestorm Stories are upfront about costs and services, eliminating surprises and providing authors with a clear understanding of what they are paying for.
- Faster Time to Market: The publishing process can be quicker compared to traditional publishing, where timelines are often longer due to the volume of manuscripts being handled.
- Marketing and Distribution: Sabrestorm Stories offers marketing advice and distribution services that can help authors reach a broader audience than they might be able to on their own.
- Hybrid Benefits: Authors get the best of both worlds: the professionalism and reach of a traditional publisher combined with the autonomy and higher financial rewards of self-publishing.
- Ownership of Rights: Authors retain the rights to their work, including the ability to choose how and where the book is distributed and marketed.
- Long-term Partnerships: Establishing a relationship with Sabrestorm Stories can lead to long-term support and opportunities for future projects.
Publishing with a partner-publishing company can be an excellent choice for authors who seek professional assistance and broader reach while maintaining significant control over their work and earning potential.
How much does it cost to publish with Sabrestorm Stories?
Every book is unique and so we do not have a one-price fits all cost. Instead, we discuss the project with the author to determine exactly what is needed and then price accordingly.
Who owns Sabrestorm Stories and when was it set up?
Sabrestorm Stories Ltd is a British company, registered at Companies House as Company No. 11927154 on 5 April 2019. The company is owned and co-directed by Ian Bayley and Penny Legg.
About us.
At Sabrestorm Stories, we help authors bring their books to life and reach the readers they deserve. From expert guidance on storytelling to professional editing and personalised tuition, we support writers at every stage of their publishing journey. Penny Legg, author and journalist, and Ian Bayley, designer and photographer, combine decades of experience to guide authors, save time, boost visibility, and help every book achieve its full potential.
Ian Bayley
Ian Bayley is founder of Sabrestorm Publishing and co-director, alongside Penny Legg, of Sabrestorm Stories. He has over forty years’ experience working as a photographer and graphic designer for London agencies, government organisations and publishers. He has a keen interest in photography and military history and has been proud to work with a variety of veterans and historians during his publishing career.
Ian is a member of The Royal Photographic Society (RPS) and the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP).
Penny Legg
Penny Legg is the author of non-fiction books focused on local, military and World War Two history. As a journalist, she has written for newspapers and magazines in the UK, USA and the Caribbean. Her work has been featured in newspapers, TV and magazines in countries as far apart as Bangladesh and America. She lectures on journalism, creative writing, media, key writing skills and historical topics for audiences as diverse as university students and cruise ship passengers. She is the co-director of Sabrestorm Stories, with Ian Bayley.
Penny is a member of The Society of Authors (SoA), The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Society of Young Publishers (SYP).
Latest updates.
Seasons Greetings to you all
As the year draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to wish all our readers, authors, and friends a very Merry Christmas. It’s been a year of stories, ideas, and conversations, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who has supported our books—whether by reading,...
Cover Release – Dériveville by Christine Donovan
We’re delighted to share some exciting news about one of our forthcoming releases, Dériveville by Christine Donovan—and to unveil its striking new cover. Set in 1981 Paris, Dériveville follows writer Julia Stanford as she seeks creative renewal while adapting Iris...
Welcome to the New Sabrestorm Stories website
We’re delighted to welcome you to the new Sabrestorm Stories website. This launch marks an important moment for us, and we’re excited to finally have a space that reflects who we are and how we work with authors. Sabrestorm Stories was founded on a belief in...
Contact us
about your book.
Whether your manuscript is complete, part-finished, or still an idea taking shape, we’d love to hear from you. Use this form to tell us about your book, your goals as an author, and the kind of support you’re looking for.
At Sabrestorm Stories, we work collaboratively with writers, offering professional guidance through editing, design, production and publication — always with clarity, integrity and respect for your creative vision. Submitting this form is simply the first step in a conversation, with no obligation.
Once we’ve reviewed your details, we’ll be in touch to discuss how we might work together and whether our assisted publishing approach is the right fit for your book.