Welcome!
I’m so glad you're here! I started Aphrodite Books five years ago because I had a vision—I wanted to make publishing more accessible to unique, impassioned voices who shared my love of storytelling and my passion for making the world a little better in the process. Today, I am so excited to launch the Aphrodite Authors Program designed to support bold, brilliant women with powerful stories to tell—women who are ready to write and publish with passion and purpose.
I created this program to empower other authors and take the mystery out of the book-writing and publishing processes. Every author is different, and thus, your program will be tailored to your individual needs—whether you have a near-final draft or an abstract idea that you need a partner to help bring onto the page. I will help you put your best work forward and create a plan to polish your manuscript, clarify your publishing goals, and prepare your author platform. Whether you’re interested in self-publishing or publishing with Aphrodite Books, I can guide you through the process providing strategic and honest feedback and the support that will enable you to deliver your best final product. (If you are seeking the traditional publication route, we can work together to refine your voice and vision while polishing your manuscript, but please note that I do not have experience with securing a traditional book deal.)
Your individual program will be tailored to your individual needs—whether you have a near-final draft or an abstract idea that you need help bringing onto the page. As an author, I’ve struggled with impostor syndrome and perfectionism stifling progress. On the flip side, I’m also a publisher, so I can bring your book to life from a Word document into a beautifully styled, polished story.
Please take a few thoughtful moments to review the program offerings and complete your application. Share as much as you feel called to—your story, your vision, and where you are in your journey. I’m not looking for perfection—the information you provide will help me advise which program track is appropriate for you.
I review every application with care and will be in touch if you’re a strong fit for our inaugural Fall Semester.
I can’t wait to work together to transform your ideas from concept onto bookshelves!
Rachael Eckles
Founder & CEO, Aphrodite Books; Author, Celeste Donovan Series
Aphrodite Authors Program Offerings
Once you submit your application, I will send you a calendar link to arrange our first 1:1.
Overview: This program is a 2-4 week intensive designed to assist you the writer (Yes, you! You’re a writer even if it feels impossible at times!) in refining your voice, narrowing down your publishing goals, and partnering with me to create your authentic author platform. Because this is a bespoke program designed around your needs, we will first have a one-hour strategy session to clarify where you are, your authentic voice, and your publishing goals. I will follow up with a clear program on how to best utilize our time together. If you’re near completion, we can use our time to refine your manuscript, launch your book through self-publishing platforms, or build out your online presence.
Design: We will meet regularly via email and virtually. I will be readily available to you during this time for creative support.
Result: By the end of our time together, you will have a clear plan for finalizing and polishing your manuscript, pursuing your publishing path, and showing up in the world authentically as an author.
Ideal Candidate: This program is for you if: 1) you are in the final stages of your manuscript and want an honest and thoughtful evaluation of the strength of your voice, 2) aren’t sure if you will pursue traditional or self-publishing, and/or 3) need help managing impostor syndrome and perfectionism so that you can get your words out into the world. The world needs your unique gifts!
Voice & Vision Intensive $1,999
Polished Manuscript Track $4,999
Overview: This is a 10-12 week coaching program for the writer just beginning the writing process who wants a partner and coach to bring an idea into a polished manuscript. This provides everything in the Voice & Vision Intensive, plus 1:1 coaching to finalize your work.
Design: We will meet regularly via email and virtually. I will be readily available to you during this time for creative support.
Result: If you devote the time we designate, you will have a polished manuscript,
Ideal Candidate: This program is for you if you are in the final stages of your manuscript and want an honest and thoughtful evaluation of the strength of your voice, aren’t sure if you will pursue traditional or self-publishing, and/or need help getting started. If you are certain you’d like to pursue self-publishing or publishing through Aphrodite Books, the manuscript programs may be better suited for you.
Overview: Think of this program as bringing your book from concept to completion with a combination of coaching and publishing support. You’re ready to write your book, build out your platform, and secure a publication date and strategy. This program includes editing, cover design, and requirements, including a PR plan, securing ISBNs, copyright, etc., and platform setup on wholesale and retail platforms for distribution.
Design: a 90-minute deep dive into the author’s voice and vision with regular touchpoints to refine manuscript and build out author platform and launch plans.
Result: A self-published or Aphrodite book ready for launch!
Ideal Candidate: If you are in this to be a published author by late 2025 or early 2026, this is the program where you will outsource the challenging parts of publishing while focusing entirely on your writing and building your author platform.
Investment: $20,000. Payment plans are available. $10,000 secures your spot in the program. Upon final payment date, we can lock in publication timeline if you are publishing with Aphrodite Books.