Rebel Publishing challenges the norms of the traditional publishing world, offering authors a new path to success and creative freedom.
It was a moment of defiance that changed everything. Bill Hicks, a man unafraid to speak up when he saw injustice, was fired from his job for doing just that—standing up for a colleague. With no job prospects and mounting personal challenges, Hicks turned his frustration into fuel for a revolution. A revolution in the world of publishing. In December 2023, he launched Rebel Publishing, a company designed to challenge the status quo of an industry that often leaves marginalized and non-traditional authors out in the cold. With a commitment to fairness and creative freedom, Rebel Publishing is rewriting the rules for authors and creators everywhere.
The Birth of Rebel Publishing
Rebel Publishing began not in the comfort of stability but in the aftermath of adversity. Bill Hicks, who had recently earned an MFA in Creative Writing while balancing a full-time job, found himself unexpectedly out of work after standing up to workplace injustice. With no financial backing and no clear path forward, he decided to lean into what he knew best: writing and publishing. From that point, Rebel Publishing was born.
Though Rebel Publishing is a young company, it has already made a significant impact in a short period. By April 2024, just a few months after its inception, Rebel Publishing had already launched its first novel, A Million Tomorrows by Kris Middaugh. The book’s success demonstrated that the model Hicks had envisioned was not just possible—it was viable.
“We started with nothing,” Hicks says. “No loans, no grants, just a belief in what we were doing. And look where we are now—three books later and so much more to come.”
The company is built on a simple but powerful concept: empowering authors and creatives who often find themselves ignored or undervalued by traditional publishing houses. Rebel Publishing embraces non-traditional voices and offers a platform for those with unique stories to tell. With a carefully crafted team of editors, designers, and illustrators, Rebel Publishing has the resources to compete with the giants of the industry—while offering a more personalized, author-centric approach.
A fist hand holding a pencil in a vintage intaglio woodcut engraved or retro propaganda style
What Makes Rebel Publishing Different
At Rebel Publishing, the focus is on authors first. Unlike many traditional publishing houses, Rebel Publishing offers its authors a larger share of royalties and lower thresholds for advances. Hicks’s model is built on keeping overhead low, which allows him to pass the savings on to the authors. “The more we save, the more we can offer authors in royalties,” Hicks explains. “It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”
This attention to detail and commitment to personalized service is what sets Rebel Publishing apart. As a small publisher, Rebel Publishing takes a hands-on approach to each project, ensuring that every book gets the attention it deserves. Though the company is not currently taking on new authors, this selectiveness is a key part of its strategy to maintain quality and focus. As sales of its books continue to grow, Rebel Publishing hopes to expand its reach and create more opportunities for independent authors to thrive.
A Publisher with a Rebellious Mission
Rebel Publishing’s mission goes beyond profit—it’s about creating a revolution in the arts. “The publishing industry, like many others, is often closed off to talented creators who don’t fit the traditional mold,” Hicks says. “Our goal is to break down those walls and provide opportunities for voices that need to be heard.”
With no financial backing or external support, Rebel Publishing’s success is a testament to the power of determination. Hicks is on a mission to prove that small, independent companies can take on the big players in the publishing world. “Thirty years ago, this would have been impossible,” Hicks reflects. “But it’s not impossible anymore. And we’re going to prove that.”
The company’s first book, A Million Tomorrows, exemplifies this rebellious spirit. The novel, written by an author in her 60s, blends elements of romance and sci-fi, turning the genre on its head. The novel’s success has proven that there’s room in the literary world for fresh, unconventional voices. “We want to help authors like Kris Middaugh, who aren’t just writing a book but crafting something truly unique and important,” Hicks says. “That’s the heart of what we do.”
Balancing Business and Family
Running Rebel Publishing has not been without its challenges. Alongside the demands of building a new company, Hicks has taken on the role of primary caregiver for his aging parents. This balancing act has been difficult, but Hicks remains committed to his mission. “It hasn’t been easy, but it’s a reminder that even in the toughest circumstances, you can keep moving forward if you’re determined enough,” he says.
His personal journey is a testament to the resilience that Rebel Publishing champions. Hicks’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s possible to face significant challenges while pursuing your dreams. Rebel Publishing, like Hicks, is built on grit, determination, and a commitment to creating something meaningful in an often unforgiving world.
Rebel Publishing is more than just a small indie press—it’s a movement. If you believe in the power of independent voices and want to support a publisher dedicated to creating a more inclusive and accessible arts industry, there’s no better way to help than by supporting the authors they champion. Purchase A Million Tomorrows today, join the rebellion, and become part of a revolution that’s changing the literary landscape. Visit Rebel Publishing’s website to learn more about their books and how you can support their mission to create a world where creativity knows no boundaries.
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