From first call to finished book
You'll know what's happening at every stage, and you'll review the story before anything goes to print.
- 1
Free consultation
We talk for about 30 minutes about your family, what you already know and who the book is for. I'll suggest the book that fits and give you a fixed quote.
Week 1
- 2
Agreement and deposit
You sign a simple agreement that spells out the scope, timeline and price, and pay the 50% deposit.
Week 1 to 2
- 3
Family questionnaire
Once you've signed, I'll send you a private link to the family questionnaire. You share the names, dates and stories you know, and I'll send a secure link for uploading photographs and documents.
Week 2
- 4
Research
I search parish registers, civil records, census returns, immigration and naturalization files, land and probate records, and newspapers across North America and Europe. You'll get a short progress update every two weeks.
Varies by book
- 5
Draft review
You read the full draft and send your corrections and additions. Two rounds of revisions are included, and the second payment (25%) is due when you approve the draft, or three weeks after I send it, whichever comes first.
Two to three weeks for your review
- 6
Design and proof
I lay out the book with your photographs, charts and records, and send a final proof for your approval.
About two weeks
- 7
Printing and delivery
Your hardcover books are printed with the Root & Quill seal on the cover and shipped to your door, along with the digital edition. The final payment (25%) is due before printing.
Two to three weeks after approval