I was expecting something more along the lines of a writing manual or a creativity guide, but this was really more of a memoir of the author about her struggles as an unpublished author and as the publisher of a small press. The book is mostly focused on traditional publishing; there's very little on self-publishing. There's lots in here about small press publishing, but I think it's more beneficial for someone who's looking to start a small press, rather than someone who might want to publish their book through one because they ultimately won't have much effect on the business decisions of their small press publisher.

Most of the information in here on getting published has been covered elsewhere before, which would be fine if there was some kind of throughline or thematic link or hook that put a new spin on it, but there wasn't, which was disappointing. I think this is a case of the expectations made by the cover and blurb not matching up with the inside.

Imagine a Door by Laura Stanfell is the kind of book that quietly transforms you. It’s not just a guide for writers — it’s a companion, a spark, and a gentle push forward when you need it most.

Stanfell’s voice is warm, encouraging, and refreshingly honest. She doesn’t sugarcoat the creative process, but instead embraces its uncertainty and beauty with grace. Her reflections on writing, self-doubt, and the power of imagination feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. Every chapter feels like a door in itself, an invitation to step into your own creativity.

Whether you’re staring down a blank page, stuck in the middle of a manuscript, or simply dreaming of writing one day, this book will speak to you. It reminded me why I started writing in the first place, not for perfection, but for the joy of discovery and expression.

Beautifully written and full of heart, Imagine a Door is an inspirational gem. I closed the final page feeling more capable, more creative, and most of all — more willing to begin.

Highly recommend to any writer or dreamer in need of a little light.

Thank you NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Imagine a Door offers an insightful look into the publishing world, especially the emotional and psychological aspects of being a writer. While the industry guidance is largely rooted in the U.S. publishing landscape, many of the lessons (creativity, resilience, and building a sustainable writing life) are universal and will resonate with aspiring writers everywhere. This feels like a thoughtful companion for anyone preparing to navigate the complex path to publication, which I feel can be overwhelming.

A no-frills, actionable, balanced guide to the publishing world with a pep in the author's step. Stanfill directly comments on what is controllable and what isn't, and what a burgeoning writer with publishing aspirations should do in the meantime. And most of all, she emphasises the most important thing of all: if you love doing something, do it for yourself.

Thanks to Netgalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me with the e-ARC/DRC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to both #NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for providing me a copy of Laura Stanfill's nonfiction work, Imagine a Door, in exchange for an honest review.

#ImagineaDoor is part-pep talk, part-reference guide to the publishing industry. The book offers helpful tips to manage your imposter syndrome as a writer as well as useful information about selling your material. While I would not recommend it for those with a solid foundation in writing, I would recommend it for newcomers, those suffering a moment of self-doubt, and anyone unsure of how to venture into the world of monetizing your craft.

This book was an outlet to my creative self. I was able to express my passions for writing and creative elements of my own story telling through this “choose your own adventure” style book. Incredible work my Laura Stanfill, looking forward to reading more of her work.

Writers? The author defines us as imaginers and dreamers. Since I called my bookshop “The Dreamer’s Bookshop” I can only agree with this definition.
She appreciates working with other actors of the industry, because they see things in our books that we don’t.
That’s a nice reminder as often we may perceive their feedback as threatening or detrimental.
According to the author this book will recalibrate our sense of success, as writers, and feel less alone.
We ought to remind ourselves our why, as publishing isn’t the sole reason for writing. All kinds of writing counts, if it published or not.
All we have to do is start: practice, play, create, erase, not all in that order. Let the process of writing be its own journey.
When it comes to publishing, the author says therefore better way to understand it than by reading.
That will give us a clear perception of the books that get published, which publishers publish them, etc.
After explaining the different kinds of publishing methods, the author emphasized on another essential aspect of the journey which is to self-promote:
“Do what comes naturally. Do what you love.”
And always keep in mind that your book isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.
You need to grow a thick skin to venture yourself in this world, but reading this book is a good way to prepare yourself both mentally as practically.
Being neurodivergent too, I can only advise to prepare as much as you can. It brings focus, and takes away some of your fears.
Whatever you do, just begin and don’t forget to be you.

This book isn’t a guide on the mechanics of writing—it’s a resource for writers who have already put pen to paper and now find themselves stuck in the trenches of revision or self-doubt. If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t a “real” writer because you haven’t landed a bestseller, secured a six-figure deal, or received critical acclaim, this book speaks directly to you.

While it may not be the ideal starting point for those just beginning to explore their story or voice, it’s a valuable next step for anyone seriously considering publication. If you're ready to move past hesitation and take your manuscript out into the world, this book is a smart and supportive companion.

Stanfill gives some fresh insights as well as some well-known but overlooked ones in Imagine a Door.
It is particularly a useful guide for those who are new to writing and publishing.
I liked how comprehensive it was.

I LOVED the first part of this book, which celebrates the joy of writing and encourages authors to write for enjoyment and not for a publisher or audience. I also appreciated the author’s transparency and willingness to share abundant information about the publishing industry from the inside: Stanfill kindly shares her personal experiences both as an author and publisher.

However, I was discouraged by what I perceived to be a scolding and self-righteous tone in some parts of the book. I don’t want to be mean because this author seems like she values being a nice person, but that’s just how I felt while reading some pages.

I picked the book back up and I’m glad I did, because it is an absolute treasure trove of information for someone who is serious about getting a book published. If you just enjoy writing and don’t want to be hindered by prescriptive suggestions, this book might not be for you. But if you want to know what to do to get published, this book is a thorough and thoughtful resource. The book is definitely heavier on the “Choosing a Publishing Path” element of the subtitle than it is on the “Honoring the Creative Journey” part. This feels like more than a book; it feels like Stanfill took me on a tour of the publishing industry and told me all of its secrets. I think anyone who wants to get published should read Imagine a Door.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forest Avenue Press for the free eARC. I post this review voluntarily with my honest opinions.

Looking for a comprehensive guide to the world of publishing? Then look no further than Laura Stanfill’s Imagine a Door. The book doesn’t feel so much like a writing course, like many other writing books often do, but rather more like you are having a conversation with someone who has been in the industry and has ‘been there and done that’ if you know what I mean. Stanfill has an easy to understand writing style and covers all aspects of the publishing journey, using over a dozen case studies to illustrate a multitude of topics. While there are definitely better books out there to teach you how to write better, this is the book you want if you want to understand the publishing process. Thanks so much to the publisher for allowing access to an ARC of Imagine a Door.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/imagine-a-door-laura-stanfill/1146027351?ean=9781942436652&bvnotificationId=b9829688-4282-11f0-9550-126b785d17c3&bvmessageType=REVIEW_APPROVED&bvrecipientDomain=gmail.com#review/348783435

Thank you so much to the Netgalley, publisher and the author for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book and give my honest review!

This is a great book to have in hand while you are tackling your manuscript. Any piece of writing you do includes a creative process, it doesn’t have to be a book that you are working on. And this gives great insight into the struggles that comes with that journey. I found it quite helpful and easy to understand. The approach was thought provoking. It is a great source to go through.
4.5/5

Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC. 

I'm so happy that I received an ARC of this book, this was exactly the right time in my life for this boom to come to me. 

I'm an aspiring author (who isn't?) and I know that a lot of the information on this book (and more!) can be easily found online, but I also know that as an aspiring author it can be easy to put off writing your actual book in the name of "research". This book pulls together the most important information without all the fluff, you can get through the entire book very quickly. 

I would recommend reading this book to anyone who hopes to get a book published.

For writers and publishers, Stanfill’s Imagine a Door offers illuminating insights across the entire spectrum of the industry. As the founder of Forest Avenue Press, the author interweaves professional wisdom from over seventy-five interviews with her own industry experiences to detail the multifaceted process of writing and publishing.

The book begins by explaining to writers that they should not set out to attain idolic status through their writing, but instead lead with passion and pay tribute to the stories demanding propelling from within their souls. Supporting her claims, Stanfill weaves captivating stories about having to deal with a chronic illness, motherhood, and even competing in roller derby, which inspire her writing.

Covering every possibility, Stanfill moves through the challenges a writer may face throughout the writing and publishing process, whether choosing a traditional publisher, an independent one, or opting for self or hybrid publishing. This diverse range of industry insight assists seasoned and novice writers alike. She observes the likelihood of covered rewards resulting from years’ worth of effort spent publishing being inconsequential. Regardless of the pain associated, the joy associated with reading is unmatched, and for this reason alone, the book focuses on the beauty of writing in all its forms, be it on paper or in one’s mind—paving the course to a rewarding practice flexible to change.

The book offers helpful insights on how one can obtain reviews, gain professional placement of their book in stores, manage feelings of imposter syndrome, find sensitivity readers, and portray stories that encapsulate.