Bindery Books enlists 'bookfluencers' to choose its titles — is it working? - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Malia Mendez

February 18, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Bindery Books, a publishing startup, is redefining the traditional publishing model by enlisting online "bookfluencers" as acquiring editors. This innovative approach involves influencer-led imprints, where book enthusiasts with established online communities make decisions on which manuscripts to publish. By leveraging the influence and passion of these tastemakers, Bindery aims to better align its offerings with reader interests while easing the promotional burden on authors. The company’s co-founders, Matt Kaye and Meghan Harvey, recognized that both creators and authors struggle to connect with audiences in the current market. They created a platform where bookfluencers like Kathryn Budig, who runs the speculative fiction imprint Inky Phoenix, can use their expertise to curate and promote books. Influencers bring unique perspectives and direct access to niche reader communities, ensuring titles resonate more authentically. For example, author Courtney Summers, known for her YA novel *This Is Not a Test*, found new life for her backlist through Bindery. By collaborating with influencer-editors like Budig, she experienced a more personalized and respectful publishing process. This model not only reinvigorated her work but also resulted in increased visibility, including being named a Kids Indie Next pick after 14 years. Such success highlights how Bindery’s approach can breathe new life into underappreciated titles. Bindery’s unique strategy has already shown results. Last year, several of its debut authors achieved bestseller status, proving the model’s potential. By integrating reader sentiment early in the process and fostering direct connections between creators and audiences, Bindery offers a fresh path for both struggling and established writers. This approach democratizes publishing and creates new opportunities in an increasingly competitive market. Ultimately, Bindery Books’ influencer-driven model represents a significant shift in how books are discovered and marketed. By tapping into the power of online communities, the startup is addressing key challenges in modern publishing—helping authors find their audiences and readers discover hidden gems they love. This approach not only benefits creators but also reshapes the future of book marketing, offering a more engaging and impactful alternative to traditional methods.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/18/2026