Angela McKenna formed her full-service cooperative press by taking the traditional publishing process—concept, edits, professional illustrators, cover design, formatting—and pouring that same rigor into self-publishing. "It’s not cheap," she acknowledges. "It’s definitely not easy, but when done right, it turns a book into a piece of art."
With the goal of empowering indie authors to turn their works into pieces of art, OMERA offers services for every stage of the publishing process. From editorial and literary agency services to bespoke book marketing, authors can find help tailored to their specific needs. As OMERA prepares for a big launch in 2025, PW spoke to McKenna about her background, her mission, and what the press offers indie authors.
As someone who’s been involved in the industry for years, what can you share about your journey as a writer and publishing professional?
My journey into publishing began as a teenager with a love for reading that evolved into a genuine respect for publishing as an art form.
I founded Mountainview Literary Agency (MLA) in 2005 because I saw how many new authors in the industry desperately needed guidance. Back then, pitching publishers wasn’t just daunting—it was an endurance test! It meant mailing paper query letters and waiting... and waiting... all while hoping the letter would actually reach an editor who might have five minutes to give it a glance.
I also wanted my own work published, but self-publishing then was seen as taboo. So, I researched editors and publishers who felt like the right fit, because that research is what keeps you out of the slush pile.
It took 86 rounds of rejection before I finally got my first “yes!” The feeling that followed was pure elation.
As a literary agent, my father was actually one of my first clients. An editor at Penguin suggested turning his memoirs into short stories. We even wove some of his stories into The Chronicles of Burning Candles series I was working on.
In 2010, after relocating to Ontario, I had to put my agency on hold. But this detour led me into sales and marketing, where I built the skills that would later become invaluable for our OMERA authors.
When Covid-19 hit, like many, I found myself reevaluating my path. I rebranded MLA as OMERA Press, with a renewed focus on indie authors, and combined everything I’d learned as a writer and a literary agent to create a new path in the book industry.
What makes the OMERA platform unique within the publishing landscape?
OMERA is a cooperative publisher built for serious indie authors who are fully committed to making their publishing journey a success. We’re not just about getting a book to print; we’re about helping authors thrive.
OMERA is a one-stop shop for your books from all vendor platforms to be found in one place. The platform goes beyond publication, with tools like a personalized online library featuring your body of work, dedicated marketing support, and strategies for connecting with readers online and in person.
To reach the right audience, you need visibility and that’s where we come in. OMERA’s marketplace gives authors a space tailored specifically to indie voices so they don’t get lost in the flood of mainstream titles. We’re not just talking about the digital space; building authentic connections means sometimes putting yourself out there—at events, speaking engagements, trade shows, conferences, and the places where decision-makers and readers discover the latest and greatest books.
Here’s the thing: if people don’t know your book exists, they can’t read it. That’s why sales and marketing are critical ingredients on the journey to bestseller. Marketing creates buzz, builds your brand, and puts your name in readers’ minds so that the next time they’re looking for a great read, your work is top of mind.
And here’s the big plus: OMERA’s got you covered for all of it—whether it’s making those online connections, finding you a spot at a trade show, or crafting a brand presence that sticks. So, if you’re serious about getting noticed, join the OMERA community, and we’ll make sure your book doesn’t languish on the bookshelves as a hidden gem.
Much has changed in the publishing world over the last 20 years. What are some positives for authors, especially those whose work might not tidily fit into a particular marketing category?
Remember the days when a vacation meant lugging a suitcase full of books to enjoy during your downtime? Now, people can literally carry millions in their pockets. With platforms like OMERA, authors have way more control over how—and who—reads their work.
These digital platforms are a real game changer. Writers can connect directly with readers, experiment with genres, and speak to niche audiences that traditional publishers often overlook. At OMERA, we’re all about supporting those unique voices. Our platform helps authors connect with readers actively looking for something fresh and outside the usual mold. It’s exciting because there’s finally space for stories that don’t fit neatly into typical categories.
So, yes, a lot has changed. And that’s a huge plus for today’s authors. There’s more room than ever for them to find their audience—one reader at a time. And we can’t forget about audiobooks. The opportunities for indie authors to reach their readers not just with their written word but also with their voices. People are busy and on the go all the time. Rather than that leading to the downfall of the written word, it has actually made it possible to "read" more books than ever and enjoy these works both as a recreational and as a daily thing.
You've shared that your father and his own writing served as an inspiration for you. What did championing his work teach you about publishing and author advocacy?
Working with my father on his memoirs taught me that every story deserves its moment and an audience that genuinely cares. Helping him navigate the world of publishing showed me just how crucial it is for an author to have someone in their corner who fully believes in their vision. My dad’s work was deeply personal to him, and to me, so I learned quickly that being an advocate isn’t just about strategy; it’s also about heart.
This is the commitment I bring to OMERA. Every author deserves someone who sees their story the way they do, and that’s exactly the type of support I aim to provide. Championing my father’s work gave me a blueprint for how to uplift other writers. I help them bring their stories to readers while making sure they feel heard and valued along the way.
Authors looking to be published are often susceptible to scams. From your perspective, what should a true publishing partnership look like for an author?
A true publishing partnership should be all about transparency and real support, not smoke and mirrors. Authors deserve to know exactly where their money is going and what they’re paying for and to be confident that the team they’re working with respects their vision. The goal should be to enhance their work, whether through editorial guidance, strategic marketing, or hands-on help that actually makes a difference.
The reality is there are no overnight successes here. Promising a bestseller with zero effort or reader engagement isn’t just misleading—it’s harmful. Real engagement requires genuine connection, not a few automated emails and a social post or two. That’s why OMERA was built on the principles of transparency and commitment. We want authors to have the information they need to make smart choices without facing hidden fees or the false promises vanity publishers tend to throw around. A true publishing partnership is about walking the journey together with the right tools and making sure the author feels supported at every step.
Getting published is so hard, and it's very easy for emerging writers to become discouraged. What words of advice and solace can you offer them?
Publishing is a marathon, not a sprint. Every rejection—and yes, there will be many—is an invitation to grow, not a sign to pack it in.
My advice? Stay true to your voice and don’t lose hope. Rejections aren’t always about the quality of your work; sometimes it’s just not the right fit, or the timing is off. The important thing is to keep building your craft and seeking feedback. Always remember that your stories do matter.
OMERA is here for exactly that reason: to give emerging authors a place to thrive and connect with readers who are looking for something unique. So keep writing, keep improving, and don’t get discouraged by the bumps along the way. It’s all part of the process.
Does OMERA offer mentorship opportunities for authors? How about additional educational resources?
Absolutely! OMERA offers mentorship and plenty of resources.That’s exactly why we created our Authors Hub. It’s packed with everything I’ve learned over the past 20 years in both writing and business development, so authors don’t have to take the hard, and pricey, road that I did.
From writing and business development to course material, white-label contracts, and query letter templates, OMERA equips authors with the tools and connections to confidently navigate the publishing world. Our Purposeful Prose blog and newsletter also keep authors updated on industry trends and offer tailored advice from our team.
We’re constantly learning and keeping up with the latest developments, which means our authors will always be in the know. Wherever authors are in their journey, they’ll find resources, insights, or just a nudge in the right direction to help them succeed.
How are you going about connecting with authors who may not know about OMERA quite yet?
Connecting with authors is a big priority for me, so I’m going all-in: attending global tradeshows, conferences, book launches, speaking events. If authors are gathering, I’m there, spreading the word about OMERA. Everything I encourage them to do, I’m doing myself.
Building an online presence, running our Purposeful Prose blog, social media, email community, and even community writing mentorship—it’s all about being accessible and showing up where indie authors need support.
Social media and our community channels are also key for reaching and supporting the wider writing community. OMERA is built to be a collaborative space, and we’re here to connect with writers and provide guidance at every stage of their journey.
What are your goals for OMERA going forward?
Looking ahead, my goal for OMERA is simple: to expand our reach and offer indie authors a literary home and supportive community where they can build their brand and connect with readers. I want OMERA to be the go-to platform for authors who value independence, transparency, and guidance that’s actually useful. Long-term, my hope is that OMERA redefines what it means to be an indie author. Our platform is a place where writers can not only publish but also truly excel in a supportive and collaborative environment.
And way down the line—once we’re well-established—I’d love to create an online library specifically for indie authors. But first things first: we need to spread the word that this wonderful world of OMERA exists for them.
