on The Book Designer:

As we approach the end of the year, I am receiving almost an email per day from authors who are seeking advice on when to release their next book.

Several had projects ready to launch before the pandemic hit and delayed for one reason or another. Others found themselves with unexpected time on their hands that led to them finishing a manuscript as stay at home orders were put in place across the globe. All of them were eager to publish sooner rather than later.

I understand the temptation to go to print as soon as your book is ready. Nevertheless, my response is more often than not, a word of caution: Publishing a book at the end of the year may hurt you more than help you.