Expanding Your Readership with Foreign Translations: A Detailed Guide for Authors
Hey authors! Ready to take your books global? Translating your work into foreign languages is one of the most powerful ways to reach new readers and grow your audience. But let’s be real—translations can be tricky, time-consuming, and expensive.
That’s where Scribeshadow comes in. It’s a streamlined, AI-powered service that makes high-quality book translations faster, more accessible, and more organized than ever before.
And as a bonus, I have an exclusive 50% off discount code for your first month. Use the code ROMANCEBOOKS at checkout. (Note: This code cannot be used with Publisher or higher subscription tiers.)
How Scribeshadow Works
Scribeshadow uses advanced large language models (LLMs) to process your entire manuscript in one go.
Available Languages
Currently offered:
- Dutch
- English
- French
- German
- Italian
- European Portuguese
- Brazilian Portuguese
- Spanish (Latin American and European)
In beta (request access):
- Catalan
- Japanese
- Russian
- Thai
- Traditional Chinese
- Simplified Chinese
- Hindi
Choosing a Model
You can select the LLM model you want for your translations. Scribeshadow will recommend certain models for specific languages. Some models even include relationship analysis before the translation begins, mapping out your characters’ connections and dynamics. This helps preserve emotional context, tone, and personality in the translated version.
Uploading Your Book
- Make sure your file is formatted correctly (chapter headers, front/back matter, etc.).
- Upload your manuscript to Scribeshadow.
- Select your target language.
- Let Scribeshadow handle the rest.
If you’d like, you can use Scribeshadow’s internal proofing option, which uses additional credits.
Optional Human Proofing
Scribeshadow partners with Problem Solved Translations for human proofing (additional fee). This is completely optional, but it’s available if you want an extra layer of assurance.
I also created a Custom GPT Translation Checker — a genre fiction–focused tool ideal for checking 500–1000 word sections for possible errors.
There are some important things I’ve learned along the way about translations in certain languages; see below for more details.
Exclusive Offer for Authors
ScribeShadow is offering 50% off your first month when you use the code ROMANCEBOOKS at checkout. (Note: This code cannot be used with Publisher or higher subscription tiers.)
Important Notes & Extras
- KDP Upload Help: Need a walk-through for loading your translation into KDP? [Click here for my guide.]
- Quality Matters: Always ensure your translations meet the quality standards expected by your target audience.
- Compliance: Make sure your translations comply with publishing platform guidelines and local laws.
Italian Translations — ISBN Warning
If you publish an Italian translation in Italy without an ISBN, Amazon will pay you a reduced royalty rate. Assigning an ISBN ensures you receive the higher royalty percentage you’re entitled to.
German Translations — Impressum Requirement
German law requires an Impressum (legal notice) in both print books and ebooks. This must include:
- Your name (or registered pen name)
- Your physical address (no P.O. boxes)
- Contact information
For a more detailed guide on what to include in your Impressum, check out my other post: Impressum for Authors in Germany.
How to Get Started
- Visit [Scribeshadow] to explore their services and begin your translation process.
- Upload your manuscript and choose your target language and model.
- Review your translation, and if desired, use internal or human proofing options.
Disclaimer: I’m not responsible for the quality of translations or the services provided by Scribeshadow or Problem Solved Translations. Always review your work before publishing and ensure it meets your audience’s expectations and legal requirements in your target market.
*Note: Always ensure that your translations meet the quality standards expected by your target audience and comply with the guidelines of your chosen publishing platforms and countries. Author of post makes no promise of quality of translation.
