What Working with a Publisher Really Looks Like: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Acorn Publishing
with Holly Kammier
July 22, 2026

Many writers dream of seeing their books in print but have little understanding of what happens between manuscript submission and publication. In this behind-the-scenes presentation, Holly Kammier, Co-founder and Publishing Director of Acorn Publishing, will walk attendees through the complete publishing journey at Acorn.

From the initial query and manuscript evaluation to editing, cover design, production, distribution, and marketing, Holly will provide an insider's look at what authors can expect when working with a publisher. She will also discuss what makes a manuscript stand out, what Acorn looks for when considering new projects, and how authors can best prepare for publication success.

Whether you're exploring publishing options or preparing to submit your manuscript, this session will provide valuable insight into the publishing process and what it truly means to partner with a publisher.

Bio

Holly Kammier is the co-founder and acquisitions editor of Acorn Publishing, the largest publishing imprint in San Diego and one of California’s leading hybrid publishers. Named 2025 Publisher of the Year by the San Diego Writers Festival and 2024 Chrysalis BREW Project Publisher of the Year, Acorn boasts a diverse catalogue of award-winning and bestselling titles across genres.

Holly is also the author of Kingston Court, Choosing Hope, and Lost Girl: A Shelby Day Novel which hit numerous best-seller lists. Her essay All-American Girl was honored by the International Memoir Writers Association and performed at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre. A UCLA honors graduate with a background in journalism, Holly has worked at KCAL Los Angeles and CNN Washington, D.C. She serves as Publishing Director for the San Diego Writers Festival and is a faculty member at the Santa Barbara Writers Conference. Holly lives in her hometown of San Diego with her husband-ish, Julian, her dog Darby, and her rotating door of young-adult children.