For the most up-to-date version of this list, visit the Writer Beware website. We’ve left this post in place, despite its age, because of the very long comments thread.
Well, here it is, the Valentine’s “gift” we’ve been promising our faithful readers for what seems like a long time now: the companion piece to our “thumbs down” list of agents–Writer Beware’s “Two Thumbs Down” publishers list!
Keep in mind that this list is far from all-inclusive. And remember, when in doubt, you can write to Writer Beware and ASK us if a publisher or agent is okay BEFORE you sign on that dotted line. The service is free. The email address is beware@sfwa.org
So…read and enjoy, while you nibble your Godiva truffles. Oh–and if you want to disseminate the list, please link to this post rather than copying and pasting.
————————————————–
Writer Beware’s “Two Thumbs Down” Publishers List
Below, in alphabetical order, is a list of the currently active publishers about which Writer Beware has received the largest number of complaints over the years, or which, based on documentation we’ve collected, we consider to pose the most significant hazards for writers. All have two or more of the following abusive practices:
1. Fee-charging–whether for the actual printing/production of the book, or for some other item related to the publishing process, such as editing or publicity. Some publishers require authors to buy bulk quantities of their own books. Fees range from a few hundred dollars to more than $25,000. A nominal “advance” in the face of other fee-charging practices does nothing to legitimize them.
2. Author-unfriendly contracts–including rights grabs, taking copyright, restrictive option clauses, sub-standard royalty provisions (including reverse-accounted royalties), inadequate reversion clauses, draconian “defamation clauses,” and a host of other inappropriate and abusive contract terms.
3. Deliberately misleading advertising--including directly soliciting authors, misrepresenting services to authors in an effort to masquerade as commercial publishers, hiding the fact that they are vanity operations, and making false claims about distribution and bookstore presence.
4. Conflicts of interest–some of these publishers are the vanity “arm” of (or otherwise under common control with) a fee-charging literary agency, which directs clients to the publisher under the guise of having made a “sale”–often without revealing the financial and personnel links between the two businesses.
5. Lack of editorial gatekeeping–as befits vanity operations, many of these publishers have few, if any, standards for the books they acquire. Some don’t even bother to read the books they accept for publication.
6. Poor or inadequate editing. Some of these publishers don’t even pretend to provide editing. Others do little more than run the text through a spell and grammar checking program, or employ unqualified, inexperienced staff.
7. Repeated breach of contractual obligations–such as nonpayment of royalties, refusal to provide royalty statements, incorrect accounting, publication delays, ARCs not sent for review as promised, failure to ship books or fulfill orders, failure to make author changes in proofs, and failure to respond properly to author queries and communications. Some of these publishers have been the focus of successful litigation and other legal actions by authors.
Writer Beware gives two big “thumbs down” to:
- American Book Publishing (Salt Lake City, UT)
- Archebooks Publishing (Las Vegas, NV)
- Helm Publishing (Rockford, IL)
- Hilliard and Harris (Boonsboro, MD)
- Oak Tree Press (Taylorville, IL)
- Park East Press (Dallas TX) (formerly Durban House, formerly Oakley Press)
- PublishAmerica (Frederick, MD)
- Royal Fireworks Press/Silk Label Books (Unionville, NY)
- SterlingHouse Publisher (Pittsburgh, PA–imprints include, among others, Pemberton Mysteries, 8th Crow Books, Cambrian House Books, Blue Imp Books, Caroline House Books, Dove House Books, and PAJA Books)
- SBPRA/Strategic Book Publishing/Eloquent Books (Boca Raton, FL–formerly known as The Literary Agency Group and AEG Publishing Group)
- Tate Publishing (Mustang, OK)
- Whitmore Publishing Company (Pittsburgh, PA)
[Edited 12/31/11 to reflect closures and name changes]
Beware Raven Tale Publishing!
Beware Raven Tale Publishing!
In 2023, Raven Tale Publishing (an imprint of Dusty Saddle Publishing) signed an author to a multi-book contract. Sounded too good to be true. It was.
Red Flag #1: The contract was dated 2022, therefore it was immediately null and void. (Yes, the author should’ve read this more closely, but then again, the publisher should’ve realized this error and updated the contract.)
The author offered the publisher a trilogy upfront, all manuscripts complete and ready to submit. The author submitted the first of the trilogy, which was then published by Raven Tale.
According to the contract, any payment would be:
“{30%} of Royalties received from Client’s outlets, for Contractor’s work only, paid on or around the 4th day of each month.”
Red Flag #2: When the 4th day of the first month arrived, there was no payment in the author’s PayPal account. When the author asked the Chief Publicist why this was, the author was told:
“Paid via PayPal on the 4th of each month after the first 60 days. Please send all enquiries to info@dspublishingnetwork.com.”
Red Flag #3: The mention of the first 60 days was not included in the contract.
Red Flag #4: The Chief Publicist did not want to be contacted directly via his email.
Red Flag #5: The author then waited for the first 60 days to pass, but payment was still not received in his PayPal account.
Red Flag #6: When the book was published on Amazon, the author had revisions for the blurb, which were not implemented. Plus, the author’s name was not as he wished, instead, the publisher chose to keep the blurb they wrote and chose a different version of the author’s name. The author let these two things slide because, well, he was happy to be published, so he compromised and didn’t push back against the errors of the publisher.
The author sent the second manuscript of the trilogy approximately four months after the first manuscript was published.
Red Flag #7: No email was sent acknowledging the receipt of the second manuscript, and no communication was forthcoming from anyone who worked for Raven Tale that they were in possession of the second manuscript.
(When the author asked if the first manuscript had made any money in the first four months of publication, he was told that it had made just over $10. So some money had been made.)
A month after having sent the second manuscript to the publisher and receiving no reply, the author communicated directly to the Chief Publicist about the lack of communication recognizing the second manuscript, as well as the lack of payment for the first manuscript.
The reply from the Chief Publicist was the following:
“Absolutely as soon as I’m back home on Friday I’ll have this fixed for you. Will get the royalties ready for you, and find out the editing progress of the book.”
Later on, when the Chief Publicist returned to his office, he emailed the author, saying:
“You have a royalty check coming on the fourth of September. Just got you added to the list. I have your PayPal on record to send it to.
We would be looking to publish your next instalment this year, absolutely.”
Red Flag #8: None of the above occurred. The author was not paid and the second installment was not edited by Raven Tale staff, nor was it published. Also, “got added to the list”? Was there a list of writers who got paid and a list of those who did not?
To this date, 2024, the author has still not received any payment for the single published work, nor has any further works been published.
The author’s question to the publisher: why? Why was this done to an author who had no previous dealings with Raven Tale Publishing, who wrote the manuscripts himself (as opposed to having AI do it), and who had a strong CV in writing before contacting Raven Tale?
These dealings with Raven Tale Publishing essentially halted the author’s writing career since he felt all the work he had put into delivering a good product was immediately dismissed, negated, and lied about.
The Chief Publicist lied to and stole money from the author. Is this how Raven Tale interacts with writers submitting material to them?
As mentioned above, Raven Tale is the horror imprint of Dusty Saddle Publishing, which publishes western novels. Their other imprints are Fast Movers Publications, which publishes military historical fiction, and Magnolia Blossom, which publishes romance novels. Perhaps it would be good to be wary of these imprints as well.
You have been warned about Raven Tale Publishing. I can do no more. Good luck with your writing career, and hopefully it won’t be destroyed by, of all people, a publisher.
Since I am greek decent I welcome your help before I publish my book abroad
Dog Ear is under investigation with the BBB for not paying royalties and a poor support department and has now been suspended. Yet they are still trying to take on new authors.
Thanks Victoria Strauss. I appreciate you doing the research and backing up some of my concerns. I was particularly concerned with the line you addressed and emboldened. Thanks for all the information you provided.
Anonymous 8/25/20,
I wasn't familiar with WildBlue Press before your question, but looking at the "interested authors" section of its website, all my spidey-sense were tingling. Though they don't mention fees, and loudly proclaim that authors pay nothing "out-of-pocket", the sales pitch they make to authors strongly suggests that authors will have to surrender money at some point of the process. And sure enough, reading down through their list of qualities that supposedly separate WildBlue from "traditional, indie, and self-publishing avenues", I find this (my bolding):
If your profits are in the black within 6 months of being published then you'll be paid your due royalties at that point instead of waiting to be paid typically two years after the date of publication which is typical for a traditional publisher.
This tells me two things. First, you will only be paid royalties if "your profits are in the black"–i.e., when the publisher's costs have been recouped (which could take quite a bit longer than 6 months, depending on sales). This is a vanity publisher ploy I've seen before. It allows the publisher to claim that authors pay nothing upfront–but since the publisher pays no royalties at all until it has broken even on publishing you, it is keeping money that otherwise would be paid to you (by those bad old traditional publishers). In effect, this is a fee.
Second, WildBlue wants to bamboozle you. Trad pubs don't hold your royalties for two years. They pay from the first sale, starting with the first royalty period (whether or not they've broken even)–or, if you've gotten an advance, once the advance has earned out (which might indeed take two years, but that's not the same as "waiting to be paid").
Bottom line: WildBlue looks to me very much like a vanity publisher in disguise. Writer Beware does not endorse vanity publishing.
Based on reports, what does WB think of WildBlue Press? I found their bio impressive, and I like some of the aggressive tactics they employ to market, but I am a naive nobody who knows nothing about the business. I would enjoy any word-of-mouth testimonials anyone has to a basic rundown of their business if anyone has that kind of information that I could not find in my research.
Thanks, in advance, for any information anyone can find,
Gil
Good catch, Anonymous. I've made the correction. Thank you!
Never mind my previous comment: I found the up-to-date list. The link on the SFWA website's sidebar works. It's just the link under "Whom Not to Query" that still goes here.
Err… the header refers to the website for the latest version, but the link on the website goes back to this blog.
Please add ENAZ Publishing to your list if you haven't already. They have a website and everything but once they got my book, they released it with NO editing whatsoever a crappy cover and they never gave me ONCE CENT. A friend of mine purchased my book through their website but they reported to me that I didn't make one single sale. Two years of nothing!!
Cindy Kennedy,
I'm not aware that Book Venture Publishing, Outskirts Press, and Mill City Press are co-owned or affiliated with one another.
Doing a websearch on Book Venture, I see that there are a number of complaints against them and they have an "F" rating with the BBB. I'm guessing you didn't have a good experience. Please email me (in confidence) to tell me more: beware [at] sfwa.org . Thanks.
I am trying to find out who own's Book Venture Publishing and it's affiliates Out Skirts Press and Mill City Press if any one can help me with this information it would be appreciated. cndy_knndy@yahoo.com Author of – With Your hand on My Shoulder – cindamaecolvin.com Thanks
Beloomar: You can always go to iuniverse if you want a printed job and you do not want to pay too much. If you design the book cover and do all the work, it is cheaper. Always a self-publishing firm like iuniverse is much cheaper but they are not the only ones. I published a children's book with them (The Master Cookie-Maker — but it is about God and how we are all cookies with different colored frosting, not about cookies you eat. Stella
I simply would like to get a memoir into some kind of book form strictly for my family – about 250 pages with some photographs. It would not be for sale. Where in the world can you get something like this done?
Anonymous 9/28,
I'd consider Novum Publishing a vanity publisher. They do disclose the fact that authors have to pay, but the disclosure is pretty well buried in the website and easy to miss; they also don't specify what the financial arrangements are. I'll bet they get a lot of submissions from authors who don't realize they aren't "traditional."
Often when vanity publishers promise to reimburse a fee, the reimbursement threshold is carefully chosen to ensure that in most cases, it won't ever be reached. And the withholding of royalties for the first 500 sales ensures that even if an author does reach the payback threshold, the publisher's overhead and profit will be covered. It doesn't look to me as if Novum supports or promotes its books in any meaningful way. My guess is that for a large number of the books they publish, Novum never has to pay out a penny in author compensation.
I also note the stilted and imperfect English on Novum's website. Not the best sign, for an English-language publisher. If they can't present fluent, grammatical English on their own website, what are the odds they'll do a decent job of copy editing your book?
Does anyone have information Novum Publishing? They seem very real and helpful, but do have a small fee which they claim to repay in full after 750 books have been sold from their online store, and I would receive 25% royalties for books sold after the 500th. OPINIONS PLEASE??
RS,
Do you mean this company? http://www.renaissancehouse.net/ If so, it's primarily a book packager that offers "co-publishing" services through Laredo Publishing. No prices appear on the website, but reports I've received indicate that costs are in the four-figure range (around $3,000). The fee is presented as a "shared" cost, but contrary to their claims, companies that provide this kind of publishing service rarely end up contributing financially; in most cases, your fee covers the whole cost of producing your book plus the publisher's profit and overhead.
Many (though not all) of Renaissance/Laredo's products look reasonably professional, but as far as distribution and marketing, what they offer doesn't seem any better than what you might get through CreateSpace. Also, a spot check of Laredo titles on Amazon reveals uncompetitive list prices and terrible sales rankings. In some cases the books have no sales rankings at all, which means that no one has ever bought a copy.
Any comments on Renaissance House?
I just submitted my manuscript to a company called "Axis Mundi". I actually got their name off a book I was reading, thinking they must be legit. Filling out the proposal was time consuming and of course I advanced to the next level. They go through a process of having readers read your work and suggest a level of contract 1 – 8. I was given a contract for level 3 which required I pay over 3000$ and i would only get 10% on the sale of the first 1000 copies. People will lesser contracts pay more and get even less! I can't find anywhere online saying its a scam. The company is under John Hunt Publishing though.
They do everything through upload so you can't contact them directly too. Here is what they sent me for my Level 3 contract:
Contract details for THE GUEST made between John Hunt Publishing Ltd and S Peterson, incorporating the terms and conditions in the following LINK.
This contract will cost the author(s) $3630/£2290 based on the estimated word count of 170000.
If you have any questions about this contract offer, please post them in the "Contract Queries" section of the Editorial & Production Forum before taking any further action here.
Sterling and Ross Publishers should be added to this list. What a farce.
As far as I know in the music industry, you either are an "independent " ( which I am ) and pay as you go and invest I yourself ( which u have done) only to realize I've spend over $3,000+ to amount to 2 iTunes songs and no real product to "show for" at a professional level (iTunes were simple demos)
I actually am debating in a Tate contract… I can either continue spinning my wheels; get picked up by a big label ( not seeming to happen in my own) or pay Tate a minimal amount to create my product. Independtenly I have spent and would spend in mixing and mastering up to $400 + studio hours for one song. 10 of my songs would = $4,000+ to mix to industry standard not to mention each Itunes fee for each song. Etc. Point is…. Either way, without a big name record deal; I am investing on what I believe is my talent & dream. Therefore, if my dream, talent, and career in music is to flourish… I must invest somehow. That's my take. I think a lot of people are expecting them
To be a miracle worker. Truth is they are getting paid a fee to work for us to create a product which will either catapult our future or be a chance to live out our dream… And have a souvenir … Either way they aren't going to make us a mega star … We have to let our star shine and go from there. We have to start with something…
What do you all think … Should I sign!?
Mainly Murder Press in CT?
ARCODHAN,
Please see my blog post about Patridge India–and make sure also to read the comments.
Partridge India has approached me to publish with them. Would you recommend I do?
Okay,
I wrote my EX publisher Michael Kiser of In Search Of The Universal truth Publisher and asked him "How much to get my rights to my books back?"
His response was to update and change the 1st letter from August 10th, cancelling my books…to a new letter (that says *This letter overrides the last letter*, the same way he does with his contracts every 2 minutes)…and then he answered that I have to buy 900 copies- 300 each- at $8.95 plus $350 per set of 300 books for S&H, to get 3 ISBN's back. Okay, my question is, he is POD. He is on social security and makes $1000 a month. He pays his motel bill and then pays for publishing (not editing of course). How did he print up 900 books? WHY would he print up 900 books when he cancelled the contracts?
When I replied that I couldn't read his new letter because it needed edited…he replied: "The price is right there in Black and white and Red for each of the dam titles pay the price or forfeit the books and you can take your dam editing to hell the letter does not need to be edited.
Pay the price by the date starting on october 3 or forfeit the books.
Can we add "In Search Of The Universal truth Publisher/Michael Kiser?"
Breach of contracts and threatening emails.
What do you know about Alpha
Wolf publishing?
I really wish I would have known this list… I just recived a voice mail from Tate Publishing stating they wanted to sign a contract with me then asked for a 3990 publicity retainer? Im so disappointed and confused, their website didnt state anything like that. I thought the publishers were sopposed to pay YOU for YOUR book? What happened to THAT??
Quartofknees–
I've gotten several questions about All Classic Books, but no complaints or other information. I'll be glad to take a look at the contract for you and give you non-legal (I'm not a lawyer) feedback…contact me via email: beware [at] sfwa.org.
Hello all,
Thank you for this great post. Mt question is regarding the company All Classic Books. I was offered a contract, there is no mention of fees, but I am suspicious. I was testing the waters with a first draft and they offered me contract. Of course, i would like to believe they loved the idea so much they wanted even before it was polished, but I honestly what are the chances of that.
They want most of the rights and offer a nominal advance ($100).
I have a lawyer friend suggesting I walk away, but he has no knowledge of the industry. I am really hoping someone knows something about this company, or better an author who has signed with them.
Any advice or reccommendations wre really appreciated.
Thank you,
Quartofknees
I am currently going with Tate for my book. I was unaware of any of the bad press that they are getting, and up to this point, I have not experienced any of the comments that has been described in this blog. I was not charged $4,000, though I paid a lesser amount of money up front. So far the process has gone smoothly, and my book is in illustration right now. I look forward to my book coming out in June of this year, and hopefully with no hitches. By the way, I had 2 legal experts look over my contract before signing, including one man who deals with contracts on a daily basis, and they felt that the contract was fair, and legitimate and my rights were protected. I guess time will tell, but so far so good. I will post again in the future, after my book is finnished, and on the shelves, for follow-up, whether positive or negative, but so far I give two thumbs up for Tate!
Noble Romance Publishing is one of the worst. Dishonest, will not answer emails from their authors, the original owner, Jill Noble, just quit and left it in the hands of someone else who will not answer or release authors from their contracts.
EVERGREEN PRESS is a very bad one. Worse yet, they make these promises as a "Christian" Publisher.
They broke all THREE contracts I signed with them and lied left and right. So many errors and enormous amounts of ignorance. And of course, they suddenly would never answer the phone. If I got someone on the line, they would lie about calling me back.
I went with Tate Publishing for my novel, "The Warren". The novel is currently bring offered for sale in 36 nations. If anyone reading this doubts that, simply Google search: 9781617773450 and count.
It is true that I am doing a great deal of self promoting the novel myself; however if any new and unknown writer believes that they are simply going to achieve success without any personal hard work to promote their own novel , they are fooling themselves.
I am very happy with Tate Publishing; and no, I am not related to the owners of Tate Publishing, we simply share the same last name.
Fred L. Tate
Author, The Warren
I’m having troublesome experience with Infinity Publishing, they never lived up to any of their promises, and messed up my book to boot. When I received the final proof, it looked just fine, exciting and I was encouraged. But when I ordered the book (30 of them as I had planned a book signing)they looked nothing like the proof. I took the proof and one of the sale books to a professional print shop, after examining both, they concluded that the sold book was clearly printed with the setting on color while the interior is in B&W, thus the print looked light to dark brownish, and the all most important photo inserts were so dark and smudged almost like the brownish antiqued photos and almost unrecognizable (40 pages). Irate as I was, I kept my calm and requested re-prints and corrections for what they did. Although they recognized their big error at first, time lingered and no action was taken, I called them many times and they kept brushing me off and looping me around their office phone system (gosh I hate that), then they got around not answering my number somehow, so I would have to resort to calling from a payphone , then when some one answers, they again start the merry-go-round and how they had referred the matter to their VP and so on, its been few months and I have yet to hear from anyone, frustrated is an understatement. what can I do? I have even threatened a legal action, and even opted to forget the whole thing had they refunded my money so I may go somewhere else, to no avail.
Dear DNICE,
i've a personal experience with dorrance publishing, and you would be glad to know that they had charged me $10000 for publishing my book. i would certainly not recommend it.
By madison
Had you noticed that Tate's $3,995 marketing fee doesn't include conversion to Kindle? I can't find any Tate Kindle books. I can find Tate books on Amazon, and epubs of Tate books, but no Kindle books.
Ebooks now make up 30% of the religious market (and I bet that more of those sales are through Amazon than all other sites combined).
I'm so grateful this site exists. I applied for an entry-level editing job at Tate to attempt to break into the publishing field. Needless to say, the sheer number of bad things there are to say about the company (not least of all the recent firings, volatile CEO, etc.) have made think that having it on my resume would be more of a hindrance than a help in my career. Will keep looking…
Thanks again 🙂
Keep up the good work. You are the first one I turn to when I have to check out an agent or publisher.
Mary Ann
Victoria-
Thanks for the information.
I will do exactly what you suggested.
Anonymous 6/08–
Writer Beware doesn't recommend specific publishers, agents, etc. One size doesn't fit all; the best agent/publisher/self-pub service for one author might be the worst for another. You know your own work best; it's best if you do the research yourself. We try to give authors the tools so to that.
Whether to self-publish or seek a traditional publisher is one of the first decisions an author has to make, and if you're unsure how to choose, I suspect that you may need to step back a little and do some more research on the publication process. This is vital not just to your success as an author (since it will help you make a truly informed decision) but to your protection, as it'll keep you out of the hands of scammers and amateurs and shady operations. It will also give you a sense of where to focus your research, so you can identify agents and publishers that are right for you, or decide whether self-publishing might be a better option. And it will answer most of the questions you have now.
Hold off on the publication search for a little while, and do some reading–and not on the Internet, where misinformation abounds. Go to a bookstore and spend some time in the section where the books on writing are shelved. Both the "Dummies" and "Idiots" lines have good basic introductions to the publishing process, and there are many others. Also have a look at my blog post, "Learning the Ropes", which gives more detailed advice and suggests many other resources. Please don't skip this step–it's tedious at the outset but will save you an enormous amount of time and grief in the long run.
I am considering publishing very soon and have been approved by Tate Pub. Co., but I don't want to invest around $4,000.00 and be left feeling like some of these people here on this blog. Should I have my book edited & copied myself after securing an ISBN no. and then push to sell out of my own trunk?…Or, should I use a company to do it? Please provide feedback and a list of 'trustworthy' professionals that you suggest I work with at this point.
Thanks
Your friends at Tate Publishing are back in the news. Be sure to listen to the audio for the full effect.
http://newsok.com/oklahoma-ceo-prays-with-insults-then-fires-employees/article/3680483
http://journalrecord.com/2012/05/31/trouble-at-tate-publishing-company-fires-25-as-outsourcing-rumors-fly-general-news/
http://soundcloud.com/dave-rhea/tate-publishing-meeting
Eetheart–Writer Beware doesn't have any information on Spore Press, either positive or negative. However, I see some warning signs at their website.
– None of their staff seem to have had any previous professional writing or publishing experience.
– They appear to have published just 2 books to date. With newer small publishers, it's a very good idea to wait until the publisher has been putting out books for at least a year, and has demonstrated some staying power.
I don't suspect any scammery or malfeasance here–Spore just looks very new and not very expert.
Mmm I have a question about a publisher. They're called "Spore Press" (website: http://sporepress.com/ )
I have heard both bad and good things about them, but what's the real deal with them? (not that I have anything to do with them – another writer I know of has been contacted by SP)
I published my novel with ABPG back in 2004 (though I signed the contract in 2001). The contract I signed was likely less restrictive than the next-generation variants. I had the pleasure of speaking directly with C. Lee Nunn on the phone.
A case can be made that I used ABPG as much as they used me. Under the terms of the contract I signed, they could not coerce me to buy 500 copies of my book. I did not have any problem with what was at the time a $450 start-up fee. After all, we pay fees to banks, universities, and even our landlords (e.g., amenities fee). ABPG took my manuscript and turned it into a high-end product I can be proud of. My novel looked as good as any other in a bookstore. I’m not distressed the book is not distributed to bookstores; readers are just as content in the era of e-procurement to purchase it from Amazon.
I was denied royalties (i.e., penalty for not purchasing copies of my book), but I did not publish my first novel with the goal of profit in mind. I was willing to make sacrifices in exchange for the experience of authorship, and I enjoyed them to the full (including some great sex). I spoke at libraries & universities. I designed a web site through which my ideas enjoyed intercourse with the world. I had the power to direct people to where they could buy my book. And in the end, I would come to own my book again 10 years later with a chance to correct all the mistakes I made as a fledgling author (and all the mistakes made by ABPG). I’m eager to tie the release of this re-mastered work with a new novel I had been working on the past 2-3 years.
I never considered ABPG a vanity press. I have seen vanity presses. Authors pay upwards of $10,000 for what amounts to a box of books (printed on poor quality paper) with no means of selling them. The ABPG experience was nothing of the kind. It's a good business model for first time authors and for people who otherwise would frankly never find a publisher regardless of the intrinsic value of their work.
I suspect in the end ABPG put a warning ON ME. My book was five times the size of the average novel and even though it has been described by those who read the mostly scripted dialogue as one of the more tense / thrilling novels and a work of major social import, I suspect there were not many people out there willing to pay $40 to read a 900-page novel. ABPG can also be faulted for not steering me in the right direction. My assigned editor was enhanced the clarity and impact of my prose, but she would not have been a reliable source of suggestions on content.
Now I was recently informed that the rights to my book reverted back to me now that the book is out of print. I am eager to implement my plan to re-master the book by reducing it to 15% of its size for submission to a publisher with established relationships to a community of reviewers. This was one area in which ABPG was lacking. I was responsible for reaching out to reviewers, and I would have to pay out of pocket for a copy of the book I shipped them. Less than 10% of the ABPG contact information for reviewers was current.
I don't regret my experience. I had perhaps one of the greatest stories to tell, a PhD that qualifies me to tell it, and something unique to teach people. What I didn't have is what someone needs to land a publisher. It's easier for an undrafted free agent to make a final NFL roster than it is for an unagented author, even with the greatest manuscript in hand, to land a publisher. In addition to being talented, you have to be some combination of lucky and connected. I was neither. Finding an acquisitions editor from a reputable label willing to even review my first chapter seemed out of reach. While you're laboring for 1-10 years to find a readable incarnation of your vision or story, the publishers are offering ghostwriters to seduce celebrities into publishing. I realized a ghostwritten biography of Spencer Pratt was more likely than seeing my name in print.
I have used both PublishAmerica and Tate. PA is a scam, but Tate has been wonderful. I know several commenters have suggested that Tate is either posing as authors or paying authors to defend them, but neither are true of me. My book Asleep in Heaven's Nursery was published through Tate, and that can be verified by going to http://www.tommymannministries.com
Hello, I am new to your blog and applaud your work!
How do you recommend to writer's with manuscripts to submit to?
Thanks!
Tim
so about Whitmore….
how much royalties do they pay (and just to clarify, royalties is them paying you, right?)?
I submitted something to them–an epic poem entitled "Nobunaga"– some weeks ago, and await a response. I'm just a teenaged guy trying to leave a mark on the liturature world, and I don't want to be a victim of fraud.
P.S. what was your Civil War Book?
Has anyone heard any negative regarding Divertir Publishing? I wish I would have know about this blog before I signed a contract with PA! They promise so much but never fullfill!
Anonymous re: Raider–
Just in the past couple of weeks, I've gotten a number of complaints from Raider authors about non-communication and long delays. Some paid Raider months ago and have yet to see their books. There are similar complaints online: do a websearch on "Raider Publishing."
Anonymous re: Tate–
I'd be interested in seeing the contract, if you wouldn't mind sharing it with me. Contact me at beware [at] sfwa.org.
Even if Tate will publish for free, its distribution and marketing are not the equivalent of what you'd get from a non-fee-charging publisher.
I have just recieived an offer from Raider international publishing and was considering them because their reach seemed to out-do other subsidy publishers, they have deals with a few good book store plus they have their own book store in NY and can apparently guarantee shelf space in quite a few major book selling outlets. There website is quite impressive and their packages are very thorough in what they offer which includes marketing at a high level. I haven't signed yet because I came across this site first and although they are not on the list I now want to know more about them before making the final decision. Does anyone have any good or bad experiences in dealing with raider? I would appreciate some feedback before going ahead
I have just been offered a FREE contract from TATE with no costs to me..anyone else?? The contract did not appear to have any red-flags, but I have nor signed and returned it yet.
Anyone familiar with TAG PUBLISHING? What's the story with them?
Please make sure not to confuse Sterling Publishing (NYC) for Sterling House (Pittsburgh).
Karen–
A bad publisher is bad for everyone. But a good publisher is only good for some people–since publishers specialize, and have different focuses and cultures. The best publisher for a fantasy writer, for instance, might be totally inappropriate for a romance or mystery or general fiction writer–and vice versa.
That's why Writer Beware doesn't provide "thumbs up" lists. We think it's better to give writers the tools they need to safely do the research on their own.
Have a look at Writer Beware's Small Presses page, which offers tips on researching publishers, advice on warning signs, and links to helpful online resources. And if you run across a publisher you aren't sure about, you can always write to us: beware [at] sfwa.org.
How about the list of "good guys" I tried to read the entire thread but I can't see any good list anywhere. It would be great for you to provide a list of positive along with the negative. Thank you!
Marcia Frost–please contact me at beware [at] sfwa.org with more details of your experience with Mansion Grove. And please pass my contact information on to any other authors you know of who've had problems with this publisher–sounds like something Writer Beware should know about. Thanks.
Sara E. James–this is an old post, but I keep it updated (see the "Edited" note at the bottom).
Lulu is a self-publishing service–not a publisher. Anyone can use it; there's no editorial filtering. The praise you've encountered is for its service–not the quality of its content.
Mansion Grove House Publishing should definitely be on this list. I published a book with them under contract in 2008. They never paid my final advance installment and have given me no reporting or royalties. They have ignored my inquiries and letters from my lawyer. I have found out that they have done the same worth at least three other authors.
To make matters worse, most copies were printed overseas, with smudged and faded pages. I had to give up my author copies to bookstores who couldn't get a response from Mansion Grove House.
Publisher Uday Kumar has no respect of the law and I hope word gets around enough that eritrea stop going there. It also would be nice to get the IRS to look into some of these illegal activities!
I realize this is an old article, but I am curious if you have thoughts about Lulu.com. I have heard professionals say good things about it, but I just finished reading a truly awful book published by them. It was laughable. Grammatical errors, the author actually made up words (and this was not one of those fantasy novels with an invented language), and said things that just plain made no sense, like "My eyes growled at him." Say what? This made me think that Lulu must do no editing and is probably just a vanity publisher.
iUniverse used to be a good print-on demand publisher, although any type of self-publishing is the kiss of death to a book nowadays, when reviewers won't even LOOK at your book. There has been too much real junk done with POD publishers. Anyway, iUniverse sold to another company, and it's very hard to get concerns addressed. The sales people sound like they speak another language and are not the friendly, helpful personal "coach" type person who used to be in place to take care of your book.
Also – I've just posted, Re:fantasy Island Publishing.
I don't want to get my freind into trouble, and though I know it's not identifable, but if you could just confirm or deny if the criteria I outlined are bad and not publish the comment itself, I'd really appreciate it. If the company is just going through a run of bad luck right now RE: preditors and editors, I don't want to add to thier problems.
I was wondering what you know about Fantasy Island Book Publishing? I've got several freinds on my facebook page that are with them, but they're talking about needing to pay for proof copies, each writer is listed as another one's editor, and there's lots of warning bells ringing. They're also listed on P&E and the owner is nasty when people leave the company. When one of them signed up with them, she said he's taking a 50/50 split with on the book sales, IF they make certain goals. But it seems they're doing it by making the books free and agressively pushing it for that day, fulfilling the contract need and then letting the writer's book drop back into the doldrums.
Would that be a thumbs down publisher?
Computers and I get along like the Israelis and the Palestinins. I didn't think my longer post with my wisecracks about sendint me $4000 went through so I redid it in short form. But please don't think I meant for any one writer to send $8000. $4000 will get me to Paris for two weeks and I can still publish your book. They say Paris is all alight during the holiday season, and I know the wine is pretty (At least the kind I drink.)
After my last post, I had a wonderful idea: If you have $4000 and want to be published, here's the news: I'm going to think up a neat name for a publishing company and start it up.
Okay everybody, just send $4000 to my PayPal account and I promise to poublish your book. I may even get a chance to read it…just as soon as I get back from my vacation in Paris.
I feel that there is enough info out there, places like this one, for any hopeful author to educate him/herself.
If an aware person has four thousand bucks or whatever to invest and wants to go that way, then I gues that's no worse than buying four thousand dollars worth of Mega Bucks tickets.
My personal feeling has always been — and I mentioned this to several publishers who had "inaugurated programs of author participation" to help get more talented authors published — I love to write, I need to write, but I wouldn't consider myself an "author" unless and until some publisher had enough faith in my work to publish it at their expense. That was the validation I needed, but of course everyone's different.
If I had four thousand bucks to spend and just wanted to be published, I'd form my own little company with a catchy name and publish my book myself. All this makes me think of my callow youth and Cloverine Salve. We used to get something like ten cans which we sold almost exclusively to family and friends at twenty-five cents a pop in order to get a "prize".
At least you folks tell ít like is is. Come to think of it, if someone wants to send me $4000 I'll set up a publishing company and publish their book…right after I get back from two weeks in Paris.
Can anyone comment on Strategic Book
Are you familiar at all with Inknbeans? I have seen them often on the indie site that I belong to and I am just wondering.
Penelope
Bryan, I've gotten fee reports for both Schiller & Wells and Stay Thirsty Media–so I'd characterize them both as vanity publishers.
Hi, thanks for posting the worst agencies/ "publishers?" Now, I know this is later in time, but I would like to avoid any missteps, so: WHat can you tell me about: Stay Thirsty Media? Which is only called a publisher by pred-ed.com? And its affiliate imprint: Schiller & Wells, Ltd.? Pred-ed.com calls the latter a vanity publisher…needless to say, I would like to make entirely sure before continuing any ventures with them if they aren't wise…
I've been traditionally published (Tyndale House, etc.) and have self published as well. I've had very good experiences in both arenas, so that thankfully I don't have any horror stories to tell.
Several have asked in these comments, "Who do you recommend for self publishing?" I agree with Victoria that, since each author is unique and each book is unique, that it's impossible to give a definitive recommendation that fits everyone.
But I highly recommend narrowing down your choices in this way. Start by studying two of the most respected Print on Demand companies – Lightning Source (used by many of the top traditional publishers) and CreateSpace (subsidiary of Amazon, geared to authors rather than publishers).
Unlike many companies, both of them are very upfront about their pricing and what they offer. In almost every case, after studying many other self publishing companies, I find that other companies are paying significantly smaller royalties, charge way more for author copies (or shipping), require books to sell at much too high a retail price, and report sales much less often.
Many of the companies use shady, misleading language on their sites, such as "we pay authors 100% of their royalties." (Hey, royalties are by definition the author's portion!)
I don't work for CS or Lightning Source. I've just had good experiences publishing through CS and the self-publishing listservs I follow tend to recommend both companies. Start with them and you'll be able to better evaluate other companies.
My wife and I have published five books so far using CreateSpace and have been very satisfied with their quality, customer service, distribution and our royalties.
Here are our books, if you want to check their quality and reviews:
http://wisdomcreekpress.com
My book, Sell More Books! Book Marketing and Publishing for Low Profile and Debut Authors, discusses these issues (both traditional and nontraditional options) in much more depth.
Since reading this letter I kept thinking about it.
It sounds harsh to say it, but in my considered opinion, if any publisher or agent asks for any amount of money, even a few dollars, he/she looks on you as what those in the con business call a "mark". On the off chance that this person is fairly legit, it must mean that he/she is trying to start up a business without any shoestrings.
In either case, they can't do anything for you.
I published with Tate and got a good editing job and a beautiful book. However,I could have done as much myself as an artist and a well trained English major. My complaint is this: I was doubtful in the beginning about the money 'contribution' which is really just a fee. The other thing that bothered me was their sales tactic through their religious beliefs.
I was verbally assured on a telephone conference that I would easily sell without a doubt, 5000 books within a short period of time and receive my deposit back. Being a novice, I believed them. because I believed in my book.
On the date of release I received a full page email listing purchasing packages with book marks, posters, tshirts etc. This was a red flag but what was I to do at that point. I needed books.
The contract promised national distribution in all major booksellers and cited B&N, Borders Waldens. When I asked what the first print run was, I was told the book would be available upon order only. When I confronted them, the first reaction of marketing was to tell me maybe my book wasn't worthy of sales. I didn't back down but only got one book signing through them. I was told to hold signings in ice cream parlors, cookie shops and street fairs and I would make more money by selling them myself and that I could reorder any time.
Almost a year later, I approached them with a 23,000 word nonfiction I wanted to ebook and was told they only sell the $3900 package. When I told them forget it because they didn't help me with marketing and distributing CATS OF VELVET, Dr. Tate contacted me and told me he already had 50K invested which I know is not true.
I could go on but declined any further business with them. My book is nice, it is on Amazon etc. but anybody can do that.
I have since found The Trashy Novel ebook publishers in LA and they are great. They charge only a bare minimum for the cost of production and are very nice to work with.
What a learning experience and this was truly baptiam by fire.
Maria Mitchell
What they failed to state in the contract under the misleading
Asepn Mountain press is not paying royalties and is selling out of contract books among other things.
A belated thanks. Not only does this help writers, it also helps readers trying to sort out the self-published junk from the real books.
Great list! 🙂
You should definitely put JustFiction! and every publisher affliated with JustFiction! on the list.
I almost fell for their trap. . . ALMOST, I tell you, I was about to send my manuscript, but when the mail was sent, I had forgotten to embed my manuscript.. whew, before resending, I read some of the baddies, and JustFiction! was among them.
Thanks again, for helping out us first-time authors..
Robert Eetheart
A Candle's End, on Authonomy
Anonymous, Writer Beware's assessment of Tate hasn't changed.
Tate still charges fees, though it recently changed how it describes them: rather than paying for book production, writers now are asked to pay for a publicist. The amount, $3,995, remains the same.
Tate also recently removed from its website any acknowledgment that it charges fees (previously, "author investments" were mentioned, though in small print and buried deep enough in the website that authors might miss it), substituting the following statement: "Tate Publishing does not charge a fee for publishing and absorbs all the cost of production and distribution of a book. However, there are requirements regarding professional marketing and publicist representation the author is required to provide. We do expect any author who signs with us to have full-time professional book marketing and publicist representation."
Authors might easily miss this, or misinterpret it to mean they don't have to pay anything to Tate. But the bottom line at Tate remains the same as ever: authors must hand over $3,995 in order to be published.
I know it's extremely to find a publisher for a book. It can take years.
But Tate has a very bad reputation. P&E and Writer Beware both warn against them.
I haven't contacted them personally but I understand they expect you, the author to cough up somde $4000 to promote the book. That's a big investment and there's a very good possibility that the $4000 will never be recouped.
The publisher should invest the promotional money. The publisher should be able and willing to pay for promotional materials.
Many small publishers, of course, don't have big bucks either, but I don't know of others that expect the author to invest that kind of money. In fact, if they invest any money at all in the project, then they're dealing with an ugh "vanity publisher". These have a uniformly bad reputation in the publishing business.
Sorry to be so negative.
C. M. Albrecht
http://www.cmalbrecht.com
My parents are thinking of signing with Tate. They consider it an honor to have someone want to publish their book. What advice would you give them about this publisher?
Star, I'm glad you found this blog before shelling out $995.
Writer Beware doesn't recommend specific publishers, because one size doesn't fit all. Just as every writer has his or her own particular subject, genre, style, and tone, every publisher has its own particular specialties and focuses. The best publisher for one writer may be the worst publisher for another.
It really is best, therefore, for the writer him/herself to choose whom to approach. Some advice on researching reputable publishers, along with a longer explanation of our policy on recommendation and links to helpful online resources, can be found in my recent blog post: http://accrispin.blogspot.com/2010/05/why-writer-beware-doesnt-provide.html
Glad I looked on here! I've just been offered a publishing deal with Strategicbookclub.com but I smelled a rat when they asked for $995 upfront to cover half their costs!
Are there any publishing houses you DO recommend for us unsuspecting, vulnerable writers?
Who can give me some insight on Author House Publishing?Thank you.
What can be said about Author House Publishing?I'm publishing from abreoad and am a little weary to pay $2500 for the package suggested by them.
Thanks in advance!
Sona
I am not hear to counter anything that has been said about Black Rose Writing, only update everyone and inform them that our so-called "vanity" press has attended and will be attending:
-NY Book Expo
-ALA Show
-Texas Book Festival with seven authors from the U.S. attending to sign and promote
-Old-Fashioned Christmas with more authors attending from the U.S. to sign and promote
We also just donated to Reading is Fundamental, already sent out over 1,000 review copies this year, and have scheduled many book signings and promotional events for our authors.
All aspects of a "vanity" press. I am very sorry that some of our critics, who have never been published or associated with us, have all this FREE time to continue trying to attack a company who deals with their authors on a personal level, and believes they all deserve their books to be read.
Never will please everyone. Best of luck writers!
I see Tate Publishing on the no-no list. However, I do see fairly regular commercials for Tate produced books on TV. I know that has to cost a few thousand. Who pays for that, the hopeful author?
Anonymous, you don't get editing from a self-pub service unless you pay for it as part of the package you buy, or buy it as an add-on service. It's definitely a good idea to have an editor if you're self-publishing, not just to correct mechanical errors but to give you feedback–but you may be able to find a qualified editor for less than you'd have to pay through the self-pub service. See the Independent Editors page of Writer Beware for more, and contact me at beware [at] sfwa.org if you have more questions.
hello,
i am very interested to know about the editing one can expect from a self pub comapny namely iuniverse.
i have now read three books and the latest was today where the editing is so poor and it would have been embarassing had it been my book. what is one to expect from spending $3,000 on having a book self published only to find errors on every second page, no exageration!
a reply would be apprecaited,
cheers
I am one of the people who is considering one day possibly putting some of my thoughts in print; howevre, I have heard many stories of the rat-race of agents and publishers and to be frank – it scares the hell out of me! How can writers who spend so much of their dear time devoted to the craft afford to be screwed at the end. I am so glad that there are people out there doing what it takes to keep the bums honest – even if only a little. I am going to pass this site on to anybody I know who is even remotely thinking of publishing any time soon.
Thank You for your efforts,
Jim
Victoria: again pardon my naivete on these matters, its all new to me. As per our emails, if it is quite "do-able" to self-publish why all the services from individual professionals & firms to render such to convert manuscripts into the various platforms as Kindle, Mobi, Nook, Sony, etc? When I registered @ Kindle-and I was probably wrong then-I was under the impression that the conversion to the required formats and document form as PDF, HTML, text, etc were part of the services they provided. Again, perhaps I was completely off. Then there is the problem of the PDFs coming out "jargled-up like some Picasso-like piece." Some blogs have said they have overcome that. Also if Kindle's iDRM has been "cracked" or hacked, what about the other platforms? Do you agree with the statements I've read in some other blogs that noveau writers "should not worry about iDRMs being cracked since their immediate problem is not 'infringement' but 'obscurity?'" Thats kinda quasi-cruel and condescending for budding writers I would think. In light of these, would it do any good at all to have your docs copyrighted as many suggest, since it only costs $35 gathering from the info I've gotten? Sorry for the long-windedness.
Does Tate publishing accept every Author?
Anonymous 11:23, if you look through the comments thread of this post you'll find a number about Tate. If Tate were truly a "mainline" publisher, as it claims to be, it would not charge its authors a penny–reputable publishers don't require authors to pay in order to be published.
Formerly, Tate described its fees as being for production; now it's calling them publicity fees. Different terminology; same deal. Given Tate's limited distribution and marketing efforts (despite the fees), Writer Beware believes that most Tate authors never recoup their "investments."
Thanks Victoria.
I submitted a manuscript to Tate Publishing of couple of months ago, and loved it, so they accepted it. I received a contract, everything seemed good, but it stated that I had to pay a $4000 onetime fee for the publicity agent which charges a fee of $4000 dollars… Is this a scam? Please Help…
Jorge, Whitmore was once, apparently, an independent publisher, but then it was acquired by Dorrance (one of the old-style expensive vanity publishers that has since adopted the POD self-publishing model). Whitmore doesn't charge any fees, but the "publishing" it provides is roughly equivalent to what you'd get from iUniverse or CreateSpace–POD-based, with very limited or no editing, marketing, and distribution.
Victoria: thanks for taking time to answer emails! So what about Whitmore, one blogger here said there is a confusion from the "older" or "other" one, and said they do not charge a fee at all.(?) Which is which? Which is correct? Thanks again!
JM
I'm surprised there hasn't been more complaints about Spinetinglers Publishing based in N.Ireland. A girl won money in their short story anthology competition last year and she still hasn't been paid by them, she complained to Writers Beware. Another man lost a lot of money when he was told his book would be released on February, 2010, but had his manuscript returned when he got fed up with them after they gave him four release dates in that year. He must have lost thousands of dollars from February until December last year when he finally got his manuscript back in December, 2010 in lost royalties. What a farce of a publisher!!
Wildside Press does no editing, and therefore produces a sub-rate book. When challenged, the editor, John Betancourt, resorts to talking down to the author using words like "you are a pest" and "you are costing me money by sending me emails I have to read" and "I refuse to typeset that thing again [the contracted book]." It may feel good to get picked up by the publisher who owns Weird Tales and Fantasy Magazine, but don't be fooled. Betancourt is a lazy buffoon. Don't bother sending your work to him. You will be sorry, as am I. I had five book contracts with him. He canceled all of them because I challenged his business ethic.
Sounds like 'Jim' is not only a tool of those cretins looking to rip off new authors, but is also a moron. Scare tactics like those he employs in his post, i.e. threatening 'litigation' are the same underhanded, evil tactics that are being used on Wikileaks. The bad guys are always afraid of transparency, and those that rail against such transparency show their true colors.
Keep up the great work on this site!
Writer Beware has gotten a number of complaints about Red Rose, and I'm aware of the problems with this publisher from my readings online (for instance, there was a major discussion at the Dear Author blog). But to date, I haven't gotten enough complaints or enough documentation to allow me to add this publisher to the Thumbs Down list.
As always, we encourage writers to contact us with their reports, advisories, and complaints, and to provide documentation where possible: beware [at] sfwa.org. All info shared with Writer Beware is held in confidence.
I would like to add a name to your Publisher's Beware list. Red Rose Publishing has hit the trifecta when it comes to bad business practices. There are many blogs and other lists all over the web that detail this publishing company's unprofessionalism and criminal behavior.
Just some of the examples are: not releasing rights back to authors when the owner has sent certified letters of termination like is described in her contract, posing as law enforcement/federal agents or retired members of the police or federal criminal services, bulling, extortion, misappropriation of funds, and the list goes on and on.
There are many that have asked for their rights to be reverted back, but Wendi Felter, owner of Red Rose Publishing, has told authors that she has the choice to comply with the termination letters or to ignore them as she pleases.
She has also ignored lawsuits and judements against her. Her NDA clause in her contracts are only for the authors, but she tells them that she has the right to broadcast any and all information about her authors anywhere she pleases.
She lies constantly about her social network and what she will do for her authors. She has refused to pay editors and cover artists after they leave her company even though she owes them royalties on books they have worked on. She refuses to pay some authors royalties, because she doesn't feel like paying them at that time.
She also has been known to cuss out and abuse her author pool as a hole through many erratic posts on blogs and other mediums.
What a useful site! I would like to share my own experiences, as a writer and editor for many years. Most of my publications have been with traditional publishers, such as Greenwood Press, so I know what to expect. However, I have used iUniverse for three small books that either were written for friends and family, or were not of interest to traditional publishers (alas!), but seemed important to me. The first two cost very little. The third, published recently, cost me about $500 in all. Editing was minimal, but the company was honest about their charges, and I am satisfied with the final product. I continue to receive royalties on all three books. There is no way to verify how many copies have been sold, unfortunately. On the other hand, the statements appear reasonable.
G'day … er … I mean Hi Victoria,
Even from Australia I find your warning messages useful. I wonder however why the 'Happy Valentines Day' as that language makes me think the post is old/past news?
Cheers and thank you.
Anonymous, for inquiries about specific publishers, please contact Writer Beware directly. Our contact email is at the top of the blog sidebar.
Still hoping to see if anyone has had any dealings with Elixirist Publishing? Since last inquiry on WB they replied to my query, made some recommendations and want me to resubmit. Just wonder if I am dealing with a vanity or POD. They appear to be a fairly new company. I researched the internet for any negatives and have found none. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Otherlyn,
A bad publisher is bad for every writer, but a good publisher is good for only some writers. Publishers specialize–a terrific nonfiction publisher, for instance, would be the worst possible choice for a fantasy writer. It's really best, therefore, that writers identify the good guys for themselves.
For more on why Writer Beware doesn't provide publisher recommendations, plus some resources and advice to help you research publishers that might be a good choice for you, see this blog post.
Is there a list of "Thumbs Up" publisher?
Otherlyn
I was offered a contract by Tate Publishing about 11 days ago. The first contact that was made to me was by a phone call and after the "Congratulations" I was told about the fee. Still curious I looked over the contract that was sent to me and everything looked really good on paper. When I got to the part of the "set-up" fee it stated that I had 10 days to accept the offer.
I contacted the rep. and asked a few more questions which he completely answered. I looked to the contract again with an advisor and noticed that the contract stated that there was a limit of 115,000 words. When I asked if this was negotiable I was told I could go as high as 120,000 words. Whe I asked the reasoning for this limit I was told that the additional pages that would be needed in order to print the full manuscript would cause the book to have pages falling out, a weakening of the binder, etc.
He then suggested that I could break my book up into two books and the second book would only be a $2,000 fee.
Now call me crazy if you want but I have a very extensive library of my own because I am an avid reader. I have several paperback books that are anywhere from 500 to 700+ pages. I have read all of them more than one time and have NEVER had a single page come loose.
I sent an email to Tate to let them know that I would be declining the offer and stated the two determining facts being the fee and the limited words. The response I recieved was a very defensive position on my reasons for declining and was told that my file would be closed.
I found that Tate was not the right company for me and it may be suitable for others but if I have worked hard on my book I certainly do not want to be told that some of the content was going to have to be deleted that would take away from the book or its characters unless I am willing to pay $6,000.
Just my personal opinion.
Has anyone had any dealings with Elixirist Publishing? They appear to be a fairly new company. I researched the internet for any negatives and have found none. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Mary, if a publisher says "closed for submissions," it means it. Sending a submission anyway is a waste of your time. You can write to ask when they'll be open again, but don't be surprised if you don't get a response.
There may be better resources for finding epublishers than a library book–have a look at the Electronic Publishing page of Writer Beware, which links to a lot of helpful resources.
You only need an agent if you want to submit to traditional print publishers (most epublishers, which don't pay advances, don't typically work with agents)–and only if you want to submit to the larger publishing houses. For info on agents and advice on researching and approaching them, see the Literary Agents page of Writer Beware.
This is my 3rd try.
Pls. let me know where the "submitted" comment goes and how I can receive feedback answers.
I'm now going to choose anonymous since nothing else has worked
Hello. This is the 2nd time I'm re-typing this, due to "Google" acnt difficulties.
I would like to know if anyone has info on epublishing companies I copied from a book at the library. I'm 1/2 thru the list & they all say "closed for submissions" or their page comes up blank. My question is can I email their submissions editor and ask when they'll be open again? Can I send submission anyway, via U.S. Mail? One company, Awe-struck, asked for a story w/disabled main character, which mine is. Another asked for stories by women w/women's issues–which mine is. Should I write to those companies and tell them this? And, any advice on finding an agent from anyone would be appreciated. I was terribly disappointed to learn of the lack of success for writers who self-publish. IS there anyway to get a real, live person to look at your work and be in your corner when you're unknown and don't have money?
U can respond to me personally if you can
Mary Raithel
johnraithel@sbcglobal.net
I was realy expecting to see Canonbridge LLC on this list. Non paymebnt of royalties, no sales reports, unanswered emails, even changing the email address and makingit awkward to find the correct new one. It was painful but I pulled my novel from theirm before it could get any worse.
DNICE. Are you out there!.
I published with Dorrance back in
91, and I'm still waiting…? Copies were sold, they even sent me the lists…yet I never received a brass farhting…Strange is'nt it…after all these years… nothing has changed..and all for the sum of £4,400.
i have been contacted by authorhouse who charges over 600 dollars to publish with them why arent they on the list?
wow,thanks a lot i almost made a big mistake!!! with AEG,and strategic book publishers and WLA.
Kerrie, Dorrance is a very expensive vanity publisher. It charges thousands of dollars to print a few hundred copies of your book. If you want to pay to publish (which, depending on your goals, may not be an appropriate choice), there are much cheaper options. See Writer Beware's Print on Demand Publishing Services page for more info.
Dorrance isn't on our Thumbs Down List because (unlike, say, SterlingHouse) it doesn't try to hide the fact that it's a vanity publisher. However, Writer Beware never recommends publishing with a vanity publisher.
Feel free to contact me via email if you have any questions–beware @ sfwa.org. In the meantime, see my post on Learning The Ropes, which provides some advice on how to learn more about the publishing world and the steps to take to get a book published.
For anyone who is wondering about 8th Crow Books (per jasouders' comment above), it's an imprint of SterlingHouse Publisher, which is on our Thumbs Down List and requires writers to buy hundreds of copies of their own books.
I wrote a book and I'm 15. I sent some information about my book to Dorrance Publishing and recieved a call back. I'm not really sure what the next step is or what to expect when I call back. Are there things I should look out for? What questions should I ask?
Thanks for this list, Victoria. I was just followed by 8th crow books and I wanted to know more about them, it seemed odd for a publisher to contact me out of the blue, especially when they'd probably go through my agent first…anyway, now I know why it was weird. So thanks!
I am grateful to writers beware that tries to expose the con publishers and agents. I published my first two books on christian spirituality for 4400pounds in Athena press Twickenham unknown to me the company is among vanity publishers. Ever since 2006 that the sales of the books commenced, I have gotten no sales report neither have I being paid any royalties. I contacted Pitmans solicitors who tried to mediate in the case but Athena press defiled the process and am left with an option to go to court. I am presently handicapped financially to pursue my case in the British court. So Writer beware what would I do?
I wish I had seen this before I contacted PublishAmerica.
What about lulu.com? Are they a valid option?
It seems funny to pay $4000 to "publish". Anyone with a computer and a printer can publish. If all the people ready to give Tate $4000 pooled their resources, they could start their own publishing company.
Or they could get agents to shop their books around…
Well, I'm a new author my first time at writing I'm very talented. I been through I lot in my life and I was always told I should write a book about my life. So thats what I'm doing I'm almost finish and I think It would be a good seller! I contacted Whitmore Publishing they are waiting on me to finish. Do anyone have anything positive to suggest for my future as a writer!!!
Hi, JR,
Writer Beware doesn't recommend specific publishers, because one size doesn't fit all. Just as every writer has his or her own particular subject, genre, style, and tone, every publisher has its own particular specialties and focuses. The best publisher for one writer may be the worst publisher for another.
It really is best, therefore, for the writer him/herself to choose whom to approach. Some advice on researching reputable publishers, along with a longer explanation of our policy on recommendation and links to helpful online resources, can be found in my recent blog post: http://accrispin.blogspot.com/2010/05/why-writer-beware-doesnt-provide.html
From JR
Hi first of all I'm glad i found your site,, I noticed that all i see is people writing about bad and scam publishers, who not to go with, what I don't understand is why no one has giving us help on who is a best option to go with even if it your opinion. Help us find that good publisher. I know we need to search, bust if this is to help us then please someone tell me who OK out there. if you can not publish it on your blog then please email me at nightrider1085@aol.com so i could get a head start on things. thank you
Thank you because I was about to go with Tate Publishing. I am so glad my cousin showed me your website. Thanks for the advice and forewarning on these publishers.
I'm adding Llumina Press in Florida to your list of 2010 Beware of the incompetent gals!
The staff is young and unaware of the real world.
They badger and bully and accuse the author of problems that were really made by Llumina. Next comes the pitch for more money to make it all better!
Beware Llumina Press!
Call me Anonymous J – This blog is fantastic!! But as a first time author, I am completely overwhelmed on where to take my chances of publishing. My plan to research the industry has only furthered my fears of falling into a scam.
I plan to continue reading the advice given upon this site, but really would appreciate guidance. I have read comments on this very blog that a first time author should not ever be required to pay any up front fees, then I read other individuals who disagreed. I understand that at the end, the decision is ultimately mine. But as a first time author, which road is the best to travel: Self-publishing or traditional? They each have pros and cons to consider. If someone could offer a little guidance, I would be immensley grateful.
Kathie, best of luck to you, and please let Dr. Tate know that our position on the tour hasn't changed since the last time he made that offer (it would be a conflict of interest for us).
Victoria,
I will gladly come back in 6 months if I have time – I am gearing up for a 3 city tour in the Midwest (5 major bookstores in 3 days), then back to DC/Virginia are for tour, then to several southern states, and even Seattle – and that's just in August and September. Traci, my publicist which Tate provides as promised already has started booking me straight through to December.
Victoria, where are you located if I may ask? I would love to meet you at Tate publishing some time and let them give you the tour. I've never visited their facilities and we could tour it together and maybe you might change your mind.
I have had 2 books published by PublishAmerica, and it has been a 'mixed bag' experience. The first book was produced well, but the second book had over 40 "publisher errors." My experience with the formatter was pure hell. She even refused to allow me to sign off on the final copy before printing. She also refused to make the corrections of "publisher errors" that I identified. They ruined my book. Can I take them to court?
Kathie, congratulations on your success. I hope you'll come back in six months or so, and tell us whether you're still happy with Tate.
My name is Kathie and I am a proud Tate author. I've already made my investment back and my novel isn't even released until August 3rd. So far I have sold the movie rights for a made-for-TV movie to be shown in 2011, and it will also be the subject of a Discovery Channel documentary in 2011. I am already booked in several Borders and Barnes and Noble stores in several different states. I am booked to do a TV interview in my area (CBS affiliate in Washington DC) and have recorded another talk show in the DC market. Everything is moving so fast my head is spinning. Whoever things Tate is a 'rip-off' has no clue what they are talking about. Oh, and did I mention that Tate negotiated the movie contracts not one but twice at no extra charge. Attorney fees are also covered in that investment which I believe I've mentioned that I've made back and am not making a profit. And since I retain the book rights I keep every single dime I make off the movie. As long as Tate will have me I will never leave them. I love my editor and publicist, which Tate provides (part of that investment that everyone thinks is so wrong.) I don't care about 'dreams'. I don't look at my book and get a 'warm, fuzzy, feeling' because my dream of being a writer has been realized. I see it as a way to make a living, and I AM making a living as an author, thanks to Tate.
Your website is very informative, and right when I needed it. I have been working on my project for quite some time now, and I was going to attempt to self publish, thanks for helping me to have my Eyes Wide Shut, Look out for Strategic Publishing just like you said the "Letter Form" how phony look what they sent me, who in the Heck is Tania a "secret Russian spy" is she Real? I doubt it.
Sincerely,
Liz, Tania, Linda, Mark – Acquisitions Team
If you would like to speak with someone, please call Tania at 800-961-3437.
For a current listing and an example of our hundreds of books published
please visit http://www.StrategicBookClub.com.
I suppose there will always be people who are prepared to pay to be "published" and there will be "publishers" ready to satisfy this vanity. However, really serious publishers pay authors and charge nothing for services because they are confident that they will create a sellable product which they will market effectively, recoup their costs, and derive profits for themselves and their author.
A lot of people are tempted to use PA and other companies of its type because they want to "get their foot in the door," "get their first book out there, "develop a track record," or similar totally underdtandable motivations. But ask yourself this: if the book won't be in bookstores, won't be reviewed, won't be marketed, and won't be accepted by any traditional publisher as a credit, in what way have I achieved any of these things?
Anonymous. Amazing Stuff here.Thankyou all. Somebody observed that Tate spend a good deal of time monitoring these Blogs. In my experience this is true but rarely do they have the guts to identify themselves. If budding authors such as myself take the time to read blogs such as this – with attention – it will soon become apparent that several publishers weigh in to the discussion through 'ringins': most pernicious of these are Tate who almost always hide behind the Christian faith. Doesn't seem very Christian to me. Anybody who spends so much time in attempting to neutralize or justify their misdeeds are a cause for genuine concern.Mr Tate, if not in your own name – then in God's name develop at least a vestige of shame or integrity. To aid in my own credibility,I have not had any dealings with Tate or the authors of this site. Thankyou for the fabulous information.
I was looking for a publisher. I found Whitmore. I jumped at the opportunity, but then thought to check online about the company, before jumping into anything. Thank GOD I did.
Tate is a crook, pure and simple.
What reputable publisher would charge you $4,000?
That is not a reputable publisher; that is a vanity press.
You will ruin your reputation if you go this way.
It's too bad I didn't find these lists last year. I published my first novel through PublishAmerica and contracted my second to Writers Literary Agency. I know by experience that these are definitely companies to stay away from.
I've even read on one publisher's website that if you have ever been self-published or published by POD, don't even bother to submit any of your work.
That's a really extreme statement, and I don't think it's always, or even often, accurate. A self- or vanity-published book may be stigmatized, so unless it's sold a lot of copies you probably shouldn't try to submit that book–but you yourself won't necessarily be stigmatized with a new manuscript, just because you paid to publish a previous manuscript.
There's a really, really easy way to escape the self-publishing "stigma," anyway: just don't mention the book. That would be my recommendation for any author with a PA-published book. Pretend you've never published before, and market your new manuscript as your debut effort.
Several years ago when I was green and hungry, I had a novel published by PublishAmerica. And then the floodgates opened with all the negative disclosure. I now can look back and shake my head, wishing it all away, but that's a foolish waste of time. Instead, I work my derriere off, writing and submitting, hoping that one day I will land an agent and eventually an offer from a reputable publisher. More than anything, though, the greatest obstacle seems to be my "lifetime sentence", being persecuted by those in the business for having such a blackspot in my writing background.
So, I guess my question is, how is it that those such as myself who have been published by the likes of PA must be continually punished? I've even read on one publisher's website that if you have ever been self-published or published by POD, don't even bother to submit any of your work. Now, does that seem fair? I think not.
please beware of Kinglake Publishing, Harry Taylor- they wish to publish my story but require a £873 authorial (whatever that is) payment before anything starts…
I amm a first-time author and thinking of sending a query letter to Oberon Press, a Canadian company. Does anybody know if they are or are not a trustworthy press? Thanks. -A.
I am glad that someone has mentioned the crookedness of Seaburn Publishers. This company should be shut down and I wish some of us could carry out a class action suit against them. Recently they tried to mount pressure on me to take back the rights to my father's book (I am representing my late father in this regard) and buy the remainder of the books which they had in stock at over 12,000 dollars. They even threatened to report me to the credit bureaus if I refuse to buy the copies. I was not trying to take back the rights to the book and, according to their contract, I do not yet have the right to do so even if I want to. In the three years that they published the book, I have not received a single report on sales made or a penny in royalties. Beware of this so-called publisher. They need to be avoided like the plague.
you guys won't believe that five minutes before reading this blog, i added the whitmore company's page to my favourite's list! THANK GOD!U SAVED ME. i m a budding writer n this blog is absoulutely gonna help.u guys are doing great job! 😀
Can anyone tell me if they have had any dealings with Sheil & Denver publishing?
Commendable activity. Thank you.
Angela….in Australia
I have been writing fiction since the 80's (early middle school and high school). This is my passion, and I have amassed many manuscripts. I will continue to write regardless. It's what I do.
While I am a published nonfiction writer (about a dozen newspapers and magazines over the years), the process of seeking a literary agent or publishing company is not only daunting, but emotionally draining.
Sadly, over the years I have had dealings with three entities listed on this site, from the Ntl. Poetry Anthology in high school, to the Arthur Fleming Literary Agency directly after graduation, to i.Universe back in '99 or so.
My impression was and is of quite a few sharks in these literary waters.
Anyway, people sometimes forget what it was like before the internet expanded as it has. Big thumbs up for this site and others like it. Much of what is contained here was left unreported before the internet became what it is today. It's nice to have someone on the side of writers, or a tool such as this to use.
I'm about to brave the waters of seeking a literary agent once more, and can do so feeling well-armed.
As for the Tate Publishing comments (quite interesting to read), it's quite simple. If the fee is only mentioned once in the small print, so to speak, it's called "bait and switch." And yes, this is a form of scamming, perhaps not illegal, but certainly misleading.
KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK HERE! (thanks)…
Anyone had any dealings with Trafford publishing?
My sister's brother inlaw went with Publich America. Once it was finished and avalible for purchase, he nearly cried as Publish America never did any editing and his book is full of errors and he says it will never sell. It was printed just as they had received it. I told my sistwer what I had read about Publish America on Writer beware. Obviously he didn't listen.
Here's another one to add to the list of Worst Publishers: Atlantic Publishing, Inc., of Ocala, Fla. This is a classic book mill. They pay writers next to nothing, give them zero royalties and work them half to death. There have been a number of complaints about them on various writer sites.
If any of you are interested in self publishing, and can market your own book you can do it at LULU.com.. Also your book will be included in google search, and at Amazon. No charge, rights yours since you are listed as publisher.
Anonymous 2/23, Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie is a vanity publisher. It charges thousands of pounds to publish your book. If you want to pay to publish (which is not a suitable starting point for many authors), there are many much cheaper options.
Anonymous 2/12, I'm afraid I don't know anything about either Brooklyn Publishers or Eldridge Publishing Co. Sorry!
UK Publisher: Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Publishers Ltd, Cambridge, England. Has anyone ever been published by them, and did they charge any kind of fees/charges?
I email Tate Publishing Co February 17, 2010, stating after searching the internet I glanced through a page called writer beware, I was shocked to see Tate Publishing Company on the list. I informed them that the $4,000.00 they charge for publishing fee after reading some complaints was not for me and I want to decline with pursuing doing business with them.
Here is a quote from the email they sent me.
" It is kind of you to call but I cannot conrol internet lies anymore than the bad stuff I read on the web about you." Never mind, I didn't send Tate Publishing Company my social security no.
It seems all the claws came out.
Hi,
I'm a playwright looking for information on two play publishers: Brooklyn Publishers in TX and Eldridge Publishing Co. in FL. Pros / Cons? Satisfied / unhappy author stories? Anything would be helpful — THANKS!
I've been writing for a long time. I have completed several manuscripts but I haven't sent any out yet. I'm a little worried about being screwed over so I've decided to not send anything out until I investigate all of my options. Do you know of any reputable publishing companies? I'll keep looking on my own but I'm kind of getting impatient.
Victoria, thanks for the update. I recently recieved an e-mail from Oak Tree Press in Illinois professing an interest in my Ms. However, they only wanted to publish it in the Kindle format saying that they were not looking for new paper books. I was feeling cautious, anyway but now will not deal with them.
PUBLISH AMERICA is not a scam. I have my book they created absolutely free after only 4 months. You just have to edit it yourself in the production process. They are not the most professional, but they clearly state everything of front which is honest and true. Get your facts straight
Superb Work
Lol, I was just on Whitmore Publishing and I was thinking: these guys can't write themselves, how are they supposed to help me?
The website just LOOKS like a scam.
I'm currently looking for a freelance manuscript reader or editor position. Unfortunately, I'm not lucky enough to live in NY, so my options are limited. I stumbled across an ad for American Book Publishing for a Book Content/Developmental Editor. I now see this publisher on the beware list. Can any one tell me if this position is worth applying for?
Thanks!
Melissa
Nashville, TN
Dorrance is an extremely expensive vanity publisher. For why vanity publishing is never a good idea, see the Vanity Publishers page of Writer Beware.
AuthorHouse is a print-on-demand self-publishing service, a cheaper form of vanity publishing. There are a lot of similar services, and if you're considering this mode of publishing you should do some comparison shopping–and be aware of the potential pitfalls. For more info, as well as some discussion of what kinds of books are appropriate for self-publishing, see the Print on Demand Self-Publishing page of Writer Beware.
Be Published appears to be an online bookstore for self-published authors. Given that most self-publishing services list their books with major Internet retailers such as Amazon, I don't really see that such a service is necessary–especially since they require you to send physical copies of your books, which could be quite expensive if you don't live in Australia, where Be Published is based.
Before you go any farther, however, I suggest that you spend some time learning about the publishing process. Not only will this help protect you against schemes and scams, it will answer most of the questions you have right now.
Avoid the Internet for now (there's a huge amount of misinformation out there, and unless you know how to filter it, it's hard to tell good advice from bad). Go to a bookstore and spend some time in the section where the books on writing are shelved. Also have a look at my blog post, Learning the Ropes, which gives more detailed advice and suggests many other resources.
What do you have to say about Dorrance Publishing, AuthorHouse, and Be Published? Are they any good?
What's Self-Publishing vs. Getting an agent?
Dudes, I can tell you I was already suspicious from the start. I first read in their webpage that only 4 percent of the submitted manuscripts are accepted. Well guess what, I sent the introduction chapter (thank god it's only that chapter for securities sake) to them, they reviewed it and I got this email back.
"Thank you so much for your submission to Tate Publishing!
I have looked over the portion that you sent to us and it looks good so far, but in order to finish our review, we will need to see more text from you! Please submit the complete text, or as much as you have complete as an attachment to me at melissa@tatepublishing.com .
When you send your text, please make sure you include a mailing address (no PO Box please) as to expedite the process if your manuscript is accepted for publication. This will really help us out! I'm sure by now you have read all of your information, but if not, you may want to skim back through that to familiarize yourself. You are just one more step closer to possibly becoming published!!
We look forward to seeing more!!"
Excuse me but "please send the completed manuscript or WHATEVER YOU HAVE" doesn't sound very ethical, in fact it's a bit demanding. I know this sort of thing is always on a case by case basis, but still it never hurts to be cautious.
From my point of view, and what I've read on the site, which points out that they deleat unsolicited/unaccepted manuscripts and that only 4% is accepted. That phrase seems more like a direct translation to something like this.
"Please send us your work so we can rip you off" and why? Just being overcautious maybe But I know that even though the content of my story may indeed be worth it, I haven't had hardly any experiance in Original fiction. There's no way that a novice writer like me (I mean god, I'm not even finished yet and they want 'more') would be 'skilled' enough to come within that so called 4% margin.
Also, doesn't the "one step closer to POSSIBLY get published" sound a bit fishy to you, especially after requesting my entire manuscript? Well it does me, and I'm not lying about my writing abilities either, though I have improved somewhat. You can find solid proof of my skills by searching http://www.fanfiction.net for author NaruZeldaMaster and Fictionpress.com for avatarmaniac. (Fiction press is where I posted the work in question btw) I dunno for sure, but I do know one thing, eyes open and ears sharp. Leaping before you look sounds good, but not always the best way to go etc.
Sorry for the shamless self plug btw, but seeing as the work I submitted is the work being referenced in said email, is that so bad?
I feel blessed that I came across this blog BEFORE I made a huge publishing mistake. With that said, I'd like you to please respond to the following questions, if you can.
Has anyone any thoughts about SweetiesBooks?
Any suggestions on publishers that I can approach directly without the need for a Literary Agent?
Can anyone suggest/recommend a Literary Agent who is accepting manuscripts for children's picture books?
Not interested in vanity publishers.
Thanks,
Shay
LadyExecutive66@Hotmail.Com
What are the practices of Whitmore Publishing that got it on your list of bad publishers?
http://theideagirlsays.wordpress.com/2009/11/27/the-nanowrimo-song-music-video-the-calamity-girl-the-promotion-squidoo-site/
thanks for the heads up, I was going to sign up with whitmore publishing to send me info…
i was considering tate so i have been reading alot of these blogs lately and have a couple of things i've noticed:
-their 4% sent contracts seems to be a fairly liberal 4%, theres always a ton of people on these blogs sent contracts
-Tate monitors the blogs very closely, seems perhaps time would be better spent editing, which seems to be non-existant by most reports
-Tate always has satisfied authors reply with passion and often, beginning to think kick backs or discounts are involved, but mostly likely Tate is posing as authors
-I would like to say "hi" to the member of the Tate editing department that will reply to my post by saying "who is to say what is proper in the American language anymore" sorry if I worded that better than you usually do
What's up with Dorrance publishing,they just emailed me. Anyone know,Talk to me people.
I can't afford to send 4G's to send to Tate unless I hit the megabucks.Then again,if they are doing terrible job editing peoples work,Then you're throwing your 4G's in a wild hog's you know what!
Anonymous, Raider International isn't a publisher, but a print-on-demand self-publishing service (it provides publishing services for a fee). For more on those kinds of services, including the potential pitfalls they pose for writers, see the Print on Demand Self-Publishing Services page of Writer Beware.
Hello,
I've seen how helpful this blog has been to a lot of people and I was wondering if you could answer my question.
Is Raider's publishing international a good publishing house?
Hey Dave-
I had great luck with TATE PUBLISHING. Despite some negative reviews I have seen about them, they have always been great for me and have gone over and beyond what they said they would do.
Good Luck!
Ricky Roberts III
http://www.rickyrobertsiii.com
I had my attorney review my contract for my manuscript that i received from Strategic Book publishing/Elequent books Joint venture program. He said that it sounds halfway like a scam if and the only thing they will do is put your book together and i maintain the rights. There is a dark cloud. If i was to send them $895 which I'm not will my book gross that or more,they say that I will get 50% in royalties. I don't think so. What's going on with Whitmore Publishing.why are they on the thumbs down list. They want to see my manuscript. Who are the legit publishing companies. Could anyone tell me.
David Rogers
Hi,
I think there is a lot of good stuff here which is very helpful to those of us who are venturing into the field of publishing for the first time. I have written quite a good number of plays but has been unable to find a publisher. I am looking for one who would publish my religious play. Is there anyone with the name of a company to propose?
I have learnt quite a lot from this website particularly on the differences between a printer and a publisher. Is there anyone who knows a publisher who does not charge authors fees upfront?
I will appreciate any resonse. Thanks
I'm not finding anyone who has had any dealings with Turner Publishing Company located out of Paducah, Kentucky. Can anyone give me the heads up on this publishing company?
Thanks!
I have had tremendous success with http://www.lulu.com. For the do-it-yourself people out there who don't want to pay, it's great. I am a younger author and Lulu has worked to my favor both times I've used it for my science fiction series.
I'm sorry to hear that iUniverse has been taken over or bought by Author House and that their fees have increased. I had a book published by them in 2005, it came out fine with a very good cover (on Amazon, etc-Make Little Weeping-but since then I've combined it with the sequel and am looking for a publisher and/or agent. It's not SF or Fantasy, rather a psychological suspense-but your comments and advice are fascinating. I've also published a short story anthology in Lulu, which is also okay. At least there you don't have to pay, and you do the editing, send the cover and so on yourself.
It seems as though everyone is writing a book. No wonder it's so hard to find an agent or publisher. Probably it would be easier to go the small press route-any suggestions as to who is accepting submissions?
I've done copyediting for other authors, and still missed a few things in my first novel. The problem with vanity press books is that they don't do editing-and charge more than the regular market. Who wants to buy a book for $15, by an unknown author, when they can buy Tom Clancy for $7.95?
I signed a contract ONLY BECAUSE they advertise that it would cost nothing to publish my book, I was so thrilled about getting my story
out to finally help someone after keeping it in for so many years, because of the shame and embarrassment of it all, until I did some research,
THEY are the most hated publisher in the world, the ONLY people that have anything good to say about them ..IS THEM ONLY.. they are unscrupulous,takes advantage of the poor and the handicapped, they only do your book so they can bleed BLEED THE AUTHOR dry, they only sell books TO THE AUTHORS, and if authors don't buy them THEY DON'T SELL AT ALL. THEY print they don't publish, They lock you into a 7 YEAR contract,TO take FULL ADVANTAGE of a poor person and EVERYONE else who has ever dealt with them, PLEASE THERE HAS GOT TO BE SOMETHING that someone can do. WE have blinders on when we see the word FREE, but that does not give anyone THE RIGHT to take advantage of you or YOUR WORK. That is MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY story
I wrote it to help or save someone's life and all THAT PUBLISHER wants to do is MAKE MONEY FROM ME FOR MY OWN autobiography, which means I AM THE ONLY one that will be buying MY OWN autobiography. NO bookstores will take their books because of their reputations. It is not about the money, although it would help, its about taking my LIFE STORY and taking advantage of it by TRYING to SELL IT BACK TO ME. Please PLEASE SOMEONE OUT THERE HELP ME. IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE to help PLEASE. I am handicapped and poor, I cannot afford a lawyer. CAN U HELP ME PLEASE? The book is NOT YET published, they told me it was in the TEXT/EDITING department now,
which I have read, they dont have EITHER. How can I get out and get my manuscript back. I GOT ALL OF THIS INFORMATION FROM THE RESEARCH
THAT I DID ON THE INTERNET, WHICH I should have done before, BUT I know there is someone out there THAT IS NOT AFRAID and will not LET STUPIDITY allow a publisher to take advantage of the weak.
I signed contract on 7/7/2009.
Is there any one who can give me information about SeaBurn Publishers group
I am painfully aware that this is W-A-Y down on the comments list. Even so, and no 'hit' on Ms Strauss, there are a few simple ways you can protect yourself from these rip-off artists.
1st, Please,call your State Attorney General's office and see if they have any fraud complaints listed against your prospective agent or publisher. If the do, jump on the bandwagon. It's the only way we have to put these crooks out of business. if they don't, at least you have eliminated a big possible landmine.
2nd, Check with the various websites like this one. Some of these con's skirt the law just enough to stay 1 step away from either a complaint, or, if it's serious enough, a grand jury. There is a lot of wisdom in that old saying 'where there's smoke, there's fire'. Just 'cause the advice is old doesn't mean it's worthless. Any smoke, run and don't look back.
BEWARE OF BOOKPROS IN TEXAS. They publish under Bridgeway, Ovation, & Synergy books. DO NOT USE THEM THEY'RE A GIGANTIC RIP OFF! YOU'LL BE VERY SORRY IF YOU USE THEM. TRUST someone who is VERY sorry that they did…
Hi! I'd like to know if you have any information about Imajinnbooks. I tried Googling them but -unlike PA – I could find nothing bad about them and I am considering submitting a query for my first book.
By the way, this site is great, thank you for all the pertinent info!
Anonymous said…
Add these to your list of so-called publishers:
Dark Hart Press
Brilliant Book Press
Goldfish Press
Drollerie Press
Morrigan Books
Because of the easy access to print-on-demand technology, there are undoubtedly many more pseudo-professional publishers out there. Self-publishing is now not the only bad choice a writer can make. It is nearly as bad to be published by an unprofessional print-on-demand "publisher."
Things to watch for as serious red flags are verbose emails, unsolicited phone calls, oddly orchestrated contracts, lack of editing skills, any talk of charges to you as the writer (for mock-up illustrations, etc.), inability to read or understand a ms., inability to discern types of writing (ex: calling a stage play a "script"), and using colloquial words in correspondence (damn, screw up, etc.)
Real publishers are professionals from hat to heels, no exceptions.
____________________
I don't know about all these publishers, but Drollerie Press is a solid publisher. I've even seen their books in stores. if you strike out with agents, or the big publishing houses (random, penguin…etc) and decide to go with a legit micro-press, you'd be lucky to land a spot with Drollerie.
Tara
Thank you so much for your comment on Tate. I appreciate it. I will also pass and continue looking. If you find a good publisher please post the name and I will do the same. Best of luck in your search.
-Almost a Tater-
I received an offer from Tate Publishing at the beginning of the month…two and a half months after I submitted my work to them. Initially, I knew about the author investment, and this was reinforced in the initial email I received from the company. I would hear about my work in six to eight weeks. Approximately ten weeks later, I emailed Tate, inquiring as to the status of my manuscript. Two days later I was informed by Trinity Tate that my work was in the final stage of review, and that I would hear back from her in a few days. You can imagine how excited I was to hear this, but was still concerned that I had to contact them first long after their window in order to find out. Again, I waited. Ten days later, I again contacted her. Three days later, with no other response, I received a contract in the mail.
Reading through the contract, there were a few items that raised my eyebrows. A friend who has been a published author for over 15 years contacted the Authors Guild, and the head of the legal department urged me to run the other way. A few of the things that were immediately noted:
1. No reputable publishing house will charge an author an up-front fee to publish. According to the Author's Guild, the publisher should be advancing you, rather than you giving them a $4000 investment that will most likely not be returned, as most first time authors never sell 5000 copies.
2. The author of a work should be receiving at least 50% of the proceeds from subsidiary rights, far more than the 15% Tate offers.
3. While Tate's 15% royalties on net profits looks good on paper, the fact is, it is not the big payment that they make it appear to be. If they were paying off of list prices, it would be a much more attractive offer.
Yes, Tate is personable, which in and of itself can be quite the draw. Most first-time authors (myself included) do not realize just how much they can make, and have the right to make, so the offer Tate supplies looks wonderful.
I contacted Trinity and told her I was unable to accept their offer at this time, and requested that they destroy all copies of my book that they may have had. (This is something they say they do if you are rejected, as well.) I also cited the items I listed above. I received no response.
I am still searching for a reputable publisher, but feel a bit wiser for the wear.
As a bookseller, I can only comment on the availability of books from small and vanity press publishers. PublishAmerica is one of the worst; they have outrageously high minimum purchase requirements, very short discounts and, as of the last time I checked, are non-returnable. Lulu is nearly impossible to get in touch with, so I don't know what their terms are. iUniverse and Xlibris, on the other hand, are available through Ingram or Baker and Taylor, although they are quite expensive and take time to arrive. I special order a lot of books for customers and I keep a weather eye out for publishers which have very poor track records for distribution. I generally refuse to order anything from PublishAmerica or Lulu, since the books, are very expensive, poor quality and take forever, if they come in at all. Since my store does take books on consignment, self publishing is often a better alternative to any of these compapanies.
I just got my legal contract from Tate today and am depating signing. What I don't understand about what you mention about Tate is that I am totally aware of the $4000 and was aware of that clearly before I even submitted my book to be read. Is there any proof they are not worthy or are people getting burned because they did not abide to their own end of the contract.
Stuart, a publisher that forces authors to cover its publishing costs (whether by levying upfront charges, or making authors buy their own books, or both) either can't support itself by doing what a publisher ought to do (sell books to the public), or else is mainly interested in turning its authors into customers. Either way, bad news for authors, who can look forward to tiny sales beyond the books they buy themselves.
Ask yourself why this publisher conceals its fees. Would you have submitted to it at all if you knew you'd have to pay? Probably not. The publisher knows this. It also knows that if it hides its fee initially, and reveals it only after it has offered you the validation of publication, you'll be more likely to hand over the cash.
Would you contact me at beware@sfwa.org? I'd love to have documentation of Black Leaf's fees. All information and documentation shared with Writer Beware is held in confidence.
Hi.
I've just had a novel of mine accepted by Black Leaf publishing. They wrote back with high praise and a list of typos in my manuscript (usual, silly stuff, the sort of things everyone misses)with suggestions that I should change them. I was over the moon, obviously. They have a good web-site, they have around 12 authors and these books are also available on amazon UK and Amazon.com as well as Barnes and Noble. However, what made me stop was their request for a once only payment of 299 pounds. This was a contribution towards publishing, they said, as they are small and need to cover some of their costs. So…what do I do? It's not a huge amount of money, they have said they will accept it in monthly payments…has anyone had any dealings with them, or any thoughts? Thanks,
Stuart.
Anyone is free to post a comment here, pro or con. We welcome comments from publishers, authors, editors, and anyone else who can speak from personal experience.
Wouldn't it be a positive service to readers to have publishers on your list respond to your concerns? It's obvious from the comments that one writer has an unfavorable experience with a publisher while the next has a positive experience. Perhaps hearing from the berated publishers themselves will be beneficial.
Your "beware" list is supposedly based on an evaluation of a publisher. Do you have a place for positive comments about publishers you trash?
I think that Tate Publishing should be added to the recommened publishers list. I have recently releases my third book with them, and they seem to get better every time. My experience with Tate has been great from day one!
A dream
is just a dream if it's not pursued…. RRIII
Now, on the bright side, here are a few publishers worth their weight in gold:
Wildside Press
Cosmos Books
Dead Letter Press
Rebel Satori Press
Rogue Blades Entertainment
Sam's Dot Publishing
Add these to your list of so-called publishers:
Dark Hart Press
Brilliant Book Press
Goldfish Press
Drollerie Press
Morrigan Books
Because of the easy access to print-on-demand technology, there are undoubtedly many more pseudo-professional publishers out there. Self-publishing is now not the only bad choice a writer can make. It is nearly as bad to be published by an unprofessional print-on-demand "publisher."
Things to watch for as serious red flags are verbose emails, unsolicited phone calls, oddly orchestrated contracts, lack of editing skills, any talk of charges to you as the writer (for mock-up illustrations, etc.), inability to read or understand a ms., inability to discern types of writing (ex: calling a stage play a "script"), and using colloquial words in correspondence (damn, screw up, etc.)
Real publishers are professionals from hat to heels, no exceptions.
Oh – I forgot to say the publisher was Willow Tree Press. They obviously don't do editing!
I am not a writer – I am a reader. I have over 3500 books in my library. Only one of those was not published by a "real" publisher. I struggled through the first chapter and about half of the second. Then I randomly read several passages through out the rest of the book. I think it may have been a good story – but the author was given to describing everything in minute detail, most of which was not relevant to the story. This resulted in the story being swamped by all these words. One page, I decided, should have been written as two sentences. It was so frustrating. I will never buy another book by this author, and would advise him to change his name if he can get a book published by a real publisher.
As a result, I don't even consider buying self-published books anymore.
Has anyone had any dealings with PM Moon Publishers? I was just offered a contract with them. I have to have 10 book signings, sell 25 books at each one, host a luncheon for each and do all my own promoting for these things. If I don't sell all 25 books then I have to buy the rest.
The first thing they tell you is to buy an e-book on how to promote yourself written by one of their authors. I am told they will get me TV air time, radio time and some press releases, but I do the rest.
I know they are a fairly new publishing house. Nowhere on their site do they say vanity press or whatever. Their catalogue consists of what you see on their site is whom they have published . . . and that's all of 4 authors to date I think.
Any thoughts on this. I say false advertising . . . and wish to remain anonymous
So it is a poor writer indeed who cannot see “what is right before their eyes” on Tate’s website regarding their fees?
What is right before one’s eyes on the Tate website is a small line at the bottom which encourages you to e-mail them to “learn more about royalties, author investments” and their services. Nowhere is there a dollar figure, and “author investments” is too vague a phrase. It’s a handy euphemism designed to disguise the fact that they’re going to ask you for four thousand bucks. I would never deal with someone who is not upfront from the get-go about what is going on. So they send you a letter after you’re hooked, and inform you of the four thou — oh, very good for them.
That’s when you should run. FAST!
I have one book that has been in print for over 12 years, and another about to be published, and I never paid one red cent for the honor. The publisher pays me. And that is the way the legitimate publishing business works. Period.
this should so have a twitter page just a sugjestion.
anything on yorkshire publishing I have no info about them but I am curious?
I can’t believe RoseDog Books was not on the list. Working with Rose Dog Books has been the worst experience with ANY company I have EVER had in my 69 years on this planet. RoseDog Books provided no receipts for ANY orders, advertising, sales etc.. NO TRANSPARENCY! Please don’t ever give this scam company any of your money.
-Taxi Jean-
I am in total shock that whitmore Publishing is on the list, they reject almost everyone! WOW!!!!
To: Anonymous,
“Shut I just signed contract with
PublishAmerica,two weeks ago.Now they send me questionarie,please help is there any way to get out of contract?”
I made the same mistake a few years ago when I wasn’t familiar with the publishing industry. I was able to get the rights back to my work fairly quickly after publication, but I had to be persistent about it. First PA stopped returning my emails and were short with me on the phone…Finally I sent an email stating that if they didn’t contact me my next contact would be from my Maryland attorney (I live in CA, bluffed that one)…No word, but two weeks later I got a last royalty check and a letter saying I was released from all contract obligations…So I can only speak for myself, but I broke free from PA contract within a couple months of it being released. Good luck.
Thank you so much for posting this list
I have a publishing question: I am a writer who is considering starting my own small press. I want to solicit short stories from other writers to be published in an eBook or even a printed anthology along with one of my own stories and sell it through Amazon or other retailers. I would incur most of the costs as well as editing, marketing, etc.
I am also considering asking for a submission fee ($5 or less) from each potential writer to help cover some of the initial costs of publishing the book. I would then pay each of the accepted writers a fee upfront and royalties later.
What are your thoughts on this?
Also, what would be the difference between my idea vs. a writing contest charging a submission fee? Or is there a difference?
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Kevin
Anonymous, you may not be able to get out of the contract, but Publish America only holds the rights to your book for seven years, unless you forget to write them at least three months before that time is up to refuse their services at the end of the seven years, then they will keep the rights for another seven years.
So mark your calender and don’t forget to write them to get back the rights to your book. I also just signed a contract with them, being uneducated about publishers who take our money. But I’m learning. And now, so are you.. Good luck.
Thank you so much for an answer,
see it wouldn’t bother me much,
I have so many ideas,I can be fine
but problem is I and my daughter write that book,so far they been ok.
My name is Daniel.
If you signed the contract, Anonymous, I’m afraid you’re stuck. You can try asking politely to be released–probably won’t help, but worth a try.
Shut I just signed contract with
PublishAmerica,two weeks ago.Now they send me questionarie,please help is there any way to get out ofcontract?
Mark Relsoh: first all, it is a big deal when a ‘publisher’ makes such a mistake – only because so few publishers actually do. Real publishers are extremely vigilant about putting out a good project. That is why real publishing takes so long – the refining process to make it perfect in all ways.
Second, no writer should ever be a publisher’s customer. EVER. You’re not paying them for anything. It is the READERS who are the publisher’s customers. If you are a writer and a publisher’s customer, there’s something wrong. I would suggest research into vanity publishing, and then maybe you’ll see why Victoria and others are so critical of the $4000 fee amongst other things. Real publishers pay you, never the other way around. I would rather be the one getting the $4000 than paying it.
I wish I had known about PA before I signed my contract. They absolutely do no editing. As a matter of fact, the proof they sent me had paragraphs running together, quotation marks, commas and periods missing. I almost went after them to get them to change the proof because they only wanted five pages, single column of changes. There was much more than that. I even used an 8 font to send them a double column of mistakes.
Finally, I just told them to print it any way they wanted to. I told them that if the book was printed the way they proofed it, it would never sell and they would really look like amateurs to the rest of the publishing industry.
Eventually, they sent me a new proof that looked much better, but still had mistakes. There just isn’t anything I can do about it. I do have a clause that allows me to notify them three months before the seven years is up and refuse their services. At the end of seven years I get my book back.
In case you are interested, the title of my book is ‘A Hero is Born’. They didn’t do a half bad job on the cover design.
I know where to come to from now on to research. Thanks for the job you do.
David Cope
I followed the links here through Writer Beware newsletter. I read every word of the query project and it was like a light came on in my clueless head. Taking cues from all of the project queries, I think I have come up with a query that may make it through…A BIG THANK YOU!!!!!! I look forward to reading this blog on a regular basis.
I smell litigation in the air.
Maligning an important part of the publishing industry is a subjective opinion. Maligning individual business entities or people amounts to slander and can be cause for a civil suit that can have far reaching implications both for the company/person maligned and the individual or individuals involved in the defamation.
I see more of these lawsuits in the making based on unsupported statements of hearsay and conspiratorial defamation of a segment of this industry. It would be wise for those who purport to be “authorities” on publishing to put away their blacklists and pursue other fiction writing endeavors.
The previous poster makes a valid point about the poor reading skills of those self proclaimed writers who cannot in fact read and comprehend what is right before their eyes.
Such spite, pettiness and negative commentary only breeds its own kind. It does not enhance literature but only the self serving interests of a few who can and do manipulate others into purchasing materials that these self proclaimed experts produce to protect the naive. The lynch mob mentality and energy expended in the pursuit of defaming other people only serves to show the mean spirited and low standards of those involved.
The veil of anomnity (and lack of responsibility) has been withdrawn by recent precedent setting court cases wherein those who liable and defame others without bearing the burden of proof will have to pay damages to the offended party. Furthermore, those who collaborate, conspire and defend the unconscionable acts of those who defame innocent parties will also be enjoined in damages to those offended.
One such recent suit has the defendant paying expensive money damages for his irresponsible statements, allegations and imprudent actions on the Internet. This individual sought donations for a legal defense which may or may not be an actionable offense if said donations did not explicitly go toward the expenses of prosecuting a trial.
On closing, those who defame others in a public forum may be responsible for damages if they do not prove their statements. Hearsay is not a defense for spewing hurtful gossip or disseminating untruths, nor will it ameliorate the damages done to individuals or businesses damaged by such actions. Writer Beware!
Oh, and another common complaint made against Tate Publishing is that the author’s up front fee of $4,000 isn’t mentioned at their website, or is hidden, is really hitting below the belt. I liked how one blogger wrote how many businesses don’t provide all the necessary details right away. Most of those complaining about not seeing the $4,000 fee, or about not even being informed of there being a fee, obviously did not do a good job of reading the information posted at the website. Again, their negative comments are a reflection of their spiteful agenda and/or their poor reading skill.
I’m not a published author, yet. I visited this blog site, as I’m thinking of going with Tate Publishing. One thing I’ve noticed here, as well as at other similar blog sites, is that the ones making negative comments about publishers seem to have a spiteful agenda, rather than wanting to be fair and honest. For example, Victoria Strauss lost all credibility with her post of 8/25/2008? 11:25 in which she wrote, “Rhonda, I’m more concerned by the fact that they screwed up your book to begin with than impressed by the fact that they fixed things once you got angry. If a company is charging you $4,000 to provide a service, it should be able to get it right from the start, without intervention from you.” Victoria should have been happy to learn that Tate did the right thing. Anyone who works for themself, as I do, or has had to deal with others having to get jobs done knows very well that mistakes are made. Tate probably did not even do the printing. We don’t know all the specifics regarding the story. The main point, though, was that Tate took immediate action to make corrections and please his customer. To ignore that and state that because a fee was paid no mistakes should have been made is ludicrous! I have absolutely no respect now for this Writer Beware venue.
Just wanted to say thanks for a useful post in your very useful blog!
I’m a young editor and was between jobs last summer when I came across openings at American Book Publishing — one for editors, one for copyeditors. Not knowing anything more than what they put on their website, I sent in my resume and was surprised by the enthusiasm of their responses.
Naturally, I like to think that I have solid experience and talent and all that, but when they started to sell me on working for them as a full editor — without so much as a phone interview — it was hard not to be suspicious.
After a little research, I came up with your list and the Writer Beware description of the company and decided this was not an organization I wanted to be part of.
So thanks for putting information like this out there so we can all try to make responsible decisions. 🙂
Hi. About Whitmore —
My experience with them: they didn’t charge a penny; had me sign a five year contract; produced an extraordinarily well designed book of durable construction; sent out eighty books (probably just flyers to reviewers; put a huge price on it; and put it in their little online bookstore and Amazon.
Maybe they were extra careful with me because the book was endorsed by Norman Mailer and I’d already sold one book to a commercial publisher.
I toured most of the Civil War clubs and re-enactments, giving speeches in my silly Confederate uniform. I cringe when I think of it, but I did sell a few hundred books.
Oh, the book was reviewed by three national publications and a local newspaper. I also presented a half-hour radio program.
When I asked for my rights back three years later, Whitmore gave them back.
Mr. Mailer has expired now and no one seems interested in bringing the Civil War book out again. With my permission, Whitmore is still carrying it in its catalog, and will until I can find a bigger publisher. Ha!
So that’s my story with Whitmore. I guess Mailer felt sorry for me when he endorsed the book — it didn’t do me any good, anyway.
At any rate, I would put Whitmore in league above PublishAmerica — but way beneath a commercial press like Putnam. They sent me royalties regularly.
I don’t think Whitmore deserves to be black-balled here, as it did produce a well made book and got it reviewed in national magazines.
Anonymous, there are fewer comments about Strategic because it’s newer than the other names on the list. Contact me at beware@sfwa.org, and in the meantime, have a look at this alert on the Writer Beware website.
Hi, I am new here. Noticed Strategic is on the list, but definitely not as many comments about them as there are the others. Can someone tell me what their experience has been with them that is so bad? Thanks, I’d appreciate any feedback.
ANONYMOUS
Anonymous, this alert at the Writer Beware website should tell you more about American Book Publishing.
As you know if you’ve received a contract, ABP charges a “setup” fee. A publisher that wants you to pay upfront is vanity publisher. Follow the links at the Writer Beware website to find out why vanity publishing is never a good idea.
I’d love to hear anyone’s input on American Book Publishing. They have offered me a contract, and I would be grateful for any first-hand experiences with them. I see they’re on the thumbs-down list, but I don’t see any commentary as to why. I do think their contract is highly restrictive and beneficial to them, but I don’t mind that if they’re really going to do quality work and really market my book.
What do you all think?
Thanks!
I can’t seem to find the actual list of publishers to be wary of.
sounds like your company is just what I’m looking for. contact me please, myralmc@yahoo.com
I am weighing in very late as I just stumbled on this blog post. As a literary publicist who has worked with new authors, I must emphatically agree with Victoria’s advice to avoid several of these publishers. Most mentioned have been on my bad list for years and many times I will refuse to represent a book when printed through one of those outlets. These publishers cripple an author’s career before it even starts and I get tired of getting blamed when I can’t get results because of publishers’ blunders.
Long story short, just trust Victoria when she says to keep looking. You never know, you might stumble across a publisher that will pay YOU for your work.
BTW, I am not a lackey or affiliated with writer beware in any form or fashion. I do however have experience in the industry and am really tired of watching authors with potential get cheated because they didn’t do their homework.
This is a very informative post. I didn’t realize publishing companies could do things like that and then charge you for doing them. I haven’t published a book yet, but I will look for a good publisher now, if I can find one.
What do you know about Mill City Press?
From Australia, I commend the good work of this site and honest expressions. Thanks. Cheers.
I agree, Tate Publishing is a great company.
RRIII
RJ,
Tate Publishing remains on the “Two Thumbs Down” list. The link you gave is to WB’s literary agency list. Tate Publishing is not a literary agency and would not therefore appear on that list.
brianm
Tate Publishing is a great company. Oh, and they aren’t on the thumb’s down list anymore, thist list is old and confusing, check it out!
http://www.sfwa.org/beware/twentyworst.html
RJ
This site, Writer Beware –is an excellent site. Everyone should post a link to this site on their own blogs. Spread the word about publishers that are not upfront with their printing fees and about printers who are marketing themselves as publishers.
Key here is this:
Printers ask for money -that is for printing.
Publishers, mainstream and small real publishers do not ask the writer for money but instead GIVE the writer a fee or advances if the writer’s book is good enough for that. If the writer’s book is not acceptable, the writer loses no money, not a penny from a real publisher.
Good reference source for writers is here http://www.refdesk.com
also, I recommend lulu.com
I posted that anonymous comment because I could not remember my password for my blog . But hopefully this message will go through. Thanks.
Thanks for your website, It is very informational.
Here is a company that asks for no up-front money (unless that has changed since). Try this company called lulu.com or at http://www.lulu.com.
I am not affiliated with the company but have seen what they do and have actually seen a “book” that was published by them. Small book, soft cover–good printing. Good quality. And the person paid no upfront money, just paid for the book itself to be delivered. Person bought about 10 books,that is all. And happy with the result.
That is just for your information. Would like YOUR comment on lulu.com whatever you feel good or bad. Honest comments. THANKS.
Hey John-
I don’t know any well known people to refer you to.. I will say, sometimes your local newspaper will have someone willing to read it or a local radio station. My first book, I chose to have all friends and family, the second, other professional contacts, and the third, a pastor, a radio host, and, some local shop owners. They have all been people that seemed right for the time… The right people will be there for you to have endorse.. WHO may need to read the book -NOW- that is in your life?
Many blessings-
RRIII
Hey John!
Congratulations on your contract! The answer is YES to your questions. Although they offered to get endorsements for me, I got my own. Keep in mind, they do everything that they say they will, and more, but as Authors, we have to play are part just the same. Start contacting your local bookstores (ask for the public relations person) about book signings. Tell them the books are 100% returnable. If you don’t get the right person the first time, try again.. May your journey unravel in grace.. Enjoy this exciting time!!
RRIII
I forgot one additional question: Do you know any well known Christian writers or pastors, who are willing to read a book such as mine and endorse the book if they think it has merit? If so, please give me the contact information, and, if you know them, would you like to read my book and recommend it to these people if you like the book?
Thanks and God bless,
John
I have a contract with Tate, and the editing process is beginning.
My book is “The Truth: God’s Inspired Word,” which proves that the Bible is God’s true and inspired Word.
I would appreciate feedback from RRIII and Rhonda Spellman, and anyone else, on the two following questions:
1. Please advise in detail the exact marketing work that Tate has done for your books–did they get your books into bookstores, did they get it listed in catalogues and Christian web sites, did they find endorsements for the book, did they get you any tv or radio appearances, or book fairs, etc??
2. Please advise me ways I can market my book, and about any web sites where I can get my book listed, and where I can get my book reviewed.
So far, Tate has been very helpful and answers all my emails and phone calls.
Thanks and God bless,
John
Hey Martin-
I am sorry to hear about your situation. I am sure it is frusturating to you. It sounds like you are doing everything that you can do.
Good luck with it.. I hope that they take care of the situation, for you, soon.
Many blessings-
RRIII
Perhaps you have a suggestion that might help with a problem with iUniverse.
I’ve been with them approximately two years. During the money phase, when they were happily taking my money, service was good. About a year ago, I paid their fee to change my royalty percentage from 10% to 20%, which was confirmed by email. They pay quarterly and continued to pay me only 10%. After three quarters, I decided to move my two novels to CreateSpace, an Amazon affiliate.
Their agreement provides for contract termination with a thirty day written notice, which I sent. Over ninety days later, they are still cataloging and selling my books. They have ignored all my emails during this time, including a letter from my lawyer demanding they cease and desist.
This problem is interfering with my efforts to sell books through CreateSpace. Amazon evidently assumes iUniverse is the legitimate publisher and gives them priority in an Amazon search.
What is most surprising is that iUniverse will not respond to my pleas or even acknowledge my emails. I can’t believe they will toy with a copyright like this.
Any suggestion would be appreciated at martinbrant@msn.com.
I recently submitted an MS to StrategicBookPublishing who claim to be “traditional publishers”. They sent me a review which took my perfectly correct syntax, grammar and punctuation and turned it into a horrendous mess. These ‘corrections’ were done to convince me that my book was in serious need of editing. (It was obvious to me that some lowly functionary had lifted a pepper-pot filled with commas and semi-colons and sprinkled them liberally all over the place…allowing them to fall where they may. What an experience!! That was my cue to exitstage left at the best speed I could muster.)
I’m looking for Children Literary.com they ripped me off and I was told that there was this problem and that problem until I got tried,not knowing that was what they wanted me to do!After I paid for editing service that I really didn’t need!
Sheep
thank you. this is a great tool
For questions about the Thumbs Down lists, or anything else, contact Writer Beware: beware@sfwa.org.
I was wondering if their is a way for me to get a bit more information on Whitmore publishing, for they were in mind as far as signing and I’m obviously open to all facts.
Thanks for the response Rhonda,
I nearly went with Tate more than a year ago, that is untill I read on this site that the author is suppose to be paid by the publisher not the other way around. Then I read some negative things about them on this blog. I have just recently found another publisher who is Jones Harvest publishing in Elkhart, IN. Brien Jones. They will do everything for $1,750 and guarantee their work. Also says they never charge for any changes needed, no matter how many.
RE: Tate Publishing
For Victoria, yes the 1st book was an “experience” – Tate had recently moved into the childrens book publishing and the print quality didn’t work out. I’ve seen much worse by other publishers (who REFUSED to do ANYTHING about it…)
Ryan not only reprinted my entire order, but he did it with lightening speed and with quality that FAR surpasses the quality out there. We all made mistakes – Ryan and Tate publishing chose to learn from theirs.
After my letter to Mr. Tate I should be glad that he gave me a 2nd chance.
Also – after we (Tate and I) sell 5000 books (over any length of time) I will receive my $4000 BACK – sound impossible? I don’t think so. I sold 3000 of my first book all by myself – in 2 years.
For BionicBullrider – have you looked at your investment? You say “$2,867 + editing” – probably another $2,000… and I’ll bet they don’t give any back – ever. I’d give Tate a call – check them out.
Rhonda
Hey Rhonda-
Thanks for the feedback. I respect your input. However, for me, I do see it as a foot in the door. I am confident that my work will continue to find it’s way out there, as it does. I personally don’t see it as money down the drain, I see it as money well spent, considering the people my books have touched so far. All in all, I just appreciate the opportunity to share, and for me TATE was the best fit in order for me to do so.
Furthermore, with there being no fee on my third book, it was worth the initial investment considering all that I, as well as others, have gained from the experience.
Enjoy the day!
Ricky
I am close to going with Mill City Press. Has anyone had any experience with them, Good or Bad? Their complete package costs $2,867. Editing would be extra. The thing I like about them is from what they say is I only pay what it costs them for each printed book. Which is $3.60 where as most all other self publishers charge over $6 per book you order. I would apprececiate any info anyone has on Mill City Press. Thanks, BLB
Rhonda, I’m more concerned by the fact that they screwed up your book to begin with than impressed by the fact that they fixed things once you got angry. If a company is charging you $4,000 to provide a service, it should be able to get it right from the start, without intervention from you.
rriii, I appreciate your candor. However, never making back your initial investment is a common outcome of vanity publishing, and one of many reasons why experts don’t recommend it for most authors. And I’m sorry to be blunt, but vanity publishing is rarely a foot in the door. Most often, it’s money down the drain.
RE: Tate Publishing
You may have read my post on 4/29/2008. Things were not happening "right" and I was mad!
Before I signed with Tate Publishing I was well aware that my investment was $4,000. They make no secret of this.
This was not my 1st book and I was prepared to do my part. I had paid $3,700 JUST for the editing, cover design and layout for my 1st book. ADD to that the illustrations and the $4,000 with Tate was a DEAL!
My book with Tate turned out to be a mess – honestly… a bad print job. I knew it and they knew it also… once I gave the boss a chance to see it. I only wish I would have sent the book to Ryan Tate before spouting off about my displeasure – behind their backs!
So – here's the REAL STORY: I sent Ryan Tate a copy of the badly printed soft cover book with my complaints and demands – I feel bad that my letter wasn't very nice.
He called me immediately to apologize and offered to correct the situation right away. He told me that he wanted me to be "doing back flips."
"Lip service," right…? Isn't that what you're thinking? I hate to admit it but I was really afraid to believe him after so much bad press (on this site).
Well, that very day I talked with others on the Tate team and we reordered my book in hard-cover – remade completely FREE to me. The new books were rushed out to me faster than I thought possible.
The new hard cover books are FANTASTIC and better than I had even hoped for. They are selling well and the marketing team is behind me all of the way!
My thoughts to ANYONE out there who honestly (seriously) thinks they can get the professional job that Tate Publishing is doing for you for less than $4000:
Look around and compare apples to apples – editing, layout, proofs, design, marketing, illustrations: add them all up and IF you can find a package for less than $4000 – let me know!
*I've been in this business for many years and I'm pretty picky. I didn't want to be associated with smut books and I didn't want any surprises either. I've seen both and more – I would suggest that you look a little deeper than people's emotions on this site (including mine).
Look at the Tate Publishing site: http://www.TatePublishing.com. They didn't win all of those awards for no reason. Give them a chance. I'm sure glad I did. I'm especially glad I gave them a second chance!
By-the-way, I am the Membership Chair for Colorado Independent Publishers Association, http://www.CipaBooks.com – and affiliated with dozens of printers & publishers – to date I haven't heard ONE SINGLE printer or publisher say ONE SINGLE thing negative about Tate Publishing (and I've ASKED!). Even their competitors can't find a problem…
Give them a call 888-361-9473- tell them Rhonda Spellman sent you.
Hey Victoria-
No, I don’t mind at all. I have not made back all of my money. I am more than half way on the first book and about 20% on the second. I can say, however, there was no need for an author investment on my third book, which I am very thankful for.
My books have been inspired back to back. I think my numbers will greatly increase with the release of the third book. I plan to devote more time to marketing on my end. I have been writing one after another, so I know I haven’t done all that I can do, on my end of things, as far as marketing is concerned. TATE has done everything they said they would do, and more.
I know the author investment is in question. I questioned it myself. Honestly, I see it as an opportunity, either way. I don’t expect my first few books to get me to where I am motivated to get, but I needed my foot in the door somehow. TATE has given me, and continues to give me that opportunity.
Enjoy your day!
rriii,
Since you’ve posted here several times in defense of Tate, I hope you don’t mind if I ask a question–have you made back the money you’ve invested so far in your first two books?
Hey Stephanie-
I saw your post on TATE. I just wanted to take the time to let you know that I personally have had great experiences with them. I published my first in 2002 and I am scheduled to begin production on my third, in September. I respect the feelings idea that they are just out for people money, but this has not been my experience with them at all. I see it as an opportunity to continue pursuing my passion to reach people in a positive way through my writing. Although I choose not to discuss the specifics of my contracts with them, I can say first hand, they have shown me that they are not after money. They have a vision and, I believe, they are doing the best they can do to follow that vision.
May your journey be blessed and the doors continue to open so that you may live your truth…
A DREAM IS JUST A DREAM IF IT’S NOT PURSUED…
blessings- RRIII
Hi All
WOW…I am at a loss of words to describe how informative this blog is…lol. It took me almost an hour and a half to read all of the blogs entries and boy what an eye opener. I have also queered PA and received their wonderful acceptance letter. All the time I read it, I was wondering when the “other” shoe was going to drop, as several years ago I mistakenly “published” a couple poems with poetry.com. Boy was I disappointed when I found out that they were just after my money. Well anyway, as far as the “other shoe dropping it did…I got on line and cross referenced them (PA) in the Yahoo search engine and found exactly what I figured I would find, that they were not and are not a repeatable publishing company. Well now I have another question for you all. Do you know anything about wlchildrensagency.com? Because I have received a rather lengthy email from them requesting I submit my new children’s book but I can’t find anything on them. Awaiting your response
Wichita, Kansas
I was “offered” a contract with Tate. I knew something was wrong because it was all too easy – she flattered me with lines like, “if anyone was ever born to be a poet, it was you”, etc.
I thankfully have a family member with more than 10 years in the industry, working at Zoland, Da Capo Press (a part of the Perseus Books Group), Justin Charles and Company, Intercultural Press and Nicholas Brealey Publishing. She is now a librarian.
She told me that Tate is NOT well respected in the industry – that they are indeed a vanity press, which I felt like I knew all along, but didn’t want to believe (it feels good to get an offer, right?).
Her advice was: join a local writers group, start submitting pieces to lit mags, take a Lifelong Learning class, and find a reputable agent (who doesn’t charge reading fees, by the way). Also, visit PublishersMarketPlace.com.
Basically, to get published the “old fashioned” way, you have to do the “old fashioned” work.
So if you’re wondering about Tate, wonder no longer. And stop waiting for prince charming.
Barb,
Writer Beware doesn’t consider vanity publishers a good choice for writers (for a full discussion of why, see our Vanity Publishing page). However, companies like Dorrance and RoseDog are straightforward about their fees, deliver the services paid for (even if they are overpriced), and don’t pretend to be anything they’re not. We’d never suggest a writer choose them, but we don’t feel they belong on our Thumbs Down list.
I want to add two more publishers to this list: Dorrance Publishing Co., located in Pittsburgh PA, and its new POD, RoseDog Pubishing. About 17 years ago, I submitted a short novella to Dorrance. I knew by then that they were a subsidy publisher which means they will publish your book for a fee, although they don’t publish pornography or libelous material. However, when I received their contract, I was to pay $6900 for the first 1,000 books. It was a very short book, only 56 pages! Well, I paid them anyway, but the book only sold 300 copies, which meant that I would have to either stock the remaining 700 copies and try to sell them myself or Dorrance would shread them all. I let them do the latter. Just two years ago, I submitted another, much longer, and better novel. It was some 600 pages, and lo and behold, they wanted $22,000 for it on my contract! I did not sign, but I agreed to let their new POD, RoseDog Books publish it for a much smaller fee of $1400. However, I would have to pay more if I wanted any editing. I paid the $1400, but my book is full of errors and is not selling. I wonder if publishing a book really costs as much as these vanity-subsidy companies say it does.
Beware Publish America.They published my book in 2004 and since then I have recieved about $7.00 in royalties.I haven’t even recieved a statement in three years.I have spoke to several lawyers,the BBB and even the States Attorney in Maryland.None of them could do anything about these crooks.Be careful.
Hey John-
Congratulations one your book! Although they do give themselves one year, in the contract, neither one of my books took that long to be in production, and available to the public.
I have been more than pleased with the quality of TATE’s finished product and they have done all that they claim to do, as far as marketing is concerned. My marketing representative is always willing to help me in any way that he can.
Oh yeah.. They have always been very good about returning phone calls, as well as emails.
GOOD LUCK with the book!
Blessings-RRIII
My book, “The Truth: God’s Inspired Word” has been accepted by Tate. I have some questions–the contract gives them up to 1 year to publish and distribute the book–this seems to me to be too long and wouldn’t 6 months be more reasonable–my book is relatively short and was sent to them as a fully completed word document–Is one year an accepted industry standard or should I try to get them to agree to 6 months?
Also–can anyone tell me how well do they bind the softcover books, is the print quality good (doesn’t smudge, etc.), do they accurately edit the books, and do they really do all they claim to do in order to market the book?
Do they promplty return phone calls?
Thanks.
John
One more thing.. To the person above, considering a contract with tate. I have been very pleased with them, in all aspects of my experience. I highly recommend them!
Listen to your inner wisdom, you’ll know what’s right for you..
RRIII
Hello to all. I am new to the site. I noticed a conern with the fee charged by Tate Publishing. I personally have published two books with Tate (YOU and WHAT REALLY MATTERS) and my third book begins production in September. Although my fee structure has changed with Tate as things have unraveled, they have always been upfront with me in regards to any fees that I was charged in the past. I can understand how some may be confused about a fee, or what it may be, but I can say, through personal experience, that if you ever have any questions about Tate Publishing, they are more than eager to answer them.
Blessings-RRIII
I think the criticism of Tate’s vague mention of an author “investment” on their website is somewhat legitmate. I have recently been offered a contract with Tate, and missed that mention on their site.
However, to be fair, they were totally up front about it in their initial e-mail to me after my submission. They also responded to my submission within the stated time frame they promised.
But I’m not surprised that they don’t list the specific amount of the fee. Many “legitimate” companies state they have fees for certain services, but don’t mention the exact amount of those fees on their website. There are a variety of valid reasons for not listing the fees.
I am leaning towards accepting Tate’s offer. At least then, I’ll be able to report back as to their actual performance, rather than providing mere speculation.
Thanks for the information, though.
Ah, Jim. Welcome back. Still grinding that ax, I see.
Your blog is looking a bit neglected.
More bias and unsubstantiated innuendo. No doubt Ms. Strauss has cronies that she recommends. If one has to resort to bad mouthing competition, then you should begin wondering about them.
That’s great. Congratulations. I wish I could find a pulisher like that, they turned me down.
Myra
Im not at all surprised to hear that Royal Fireworks Press is to be avoided. I used to live with my property touching theirs and the physical facility is a dump and they are constantly cited by the NYS DEC for toxic hazard violations and for many other reasons. Its no wonder that this amount of mismanagement would carry thru into their publishing practices…
I recently won a novel writing contest judged by many ‘name’ writers who encouraged me in my writing. Not only that, but I have had book-writing contracts for non-fiction books with several major publishers of paranormal fare. The only publisher I could find to publish my novel was Publish America and I had to pay NOTHING to anyone for having it published. Nothing! Zip! Nada! The marketing of my book is pretty much all up to me, but I can handle it as I publicize my novel along with my non-fiction books which sell quite well.
Even if Tates site doesn’t disclose the fee they tell you how much it is in the first email. I got my first one from them and it was there. Whitmore on the other hand hasn’t mentioned a fee yet. That’s why I need to find a publisher that will not charge a fee, who can aford to pay one these days. myralmc@yahoo
Johnny 8544, please contact me at Writer Beware, and I’ll provide a detailed response to your questions. Our email is beware@sfwa.org.
IF an author bothers to read down to the very bottom of the web page in question, and IF an author understands that “author investment” means money paid upfront, then yes, the author won’t be surprised to receive Tate’s email detailing the fees. However, the questions I receive on a regular basis suggest that many authors don’t do/understand either of these things.
Also, even if the author realizes there’s a fee, s/he can’t know what the fee is unless s/he actually contacts Tate. If a pay-to-publish publisher has nothing to hide, why wouldn’t it disclose the amount of its fees on its website?
To Victoria:
Here is what is posted at the bottom of Tate’s Web Page: “To learn more about royalties, author investments and production services and timelines, you can request more information to be e-mailed to you.” They clearly say to learn more about “author investments” to click on link to email them for this information. So, if anyone merely reads what they say they will send the email. Obviously the words “author investments” means you will have to pay a fee, so anyone who has any sense would send the email. Also, you did not address my questins for your input regarding that Tate says they will publicize and market the book, create a book cover, and copy edit the book. Is your main criticism that they charge the upfront fee, or do you feel their services are substandard. I did find that there are many positive author testimonials from Tate authors, and I double-checked and found that these authors are authentic and their books are listed on amazon.com. Please send a detailed response. I submitted a book and am awaiting their response. Thanks.
johnny85444 said,
I recently submitted my book to Tate, and both their website and their email to me clearly indicated that they do charge the upfront fee of $ 3950…Why do you keep saying the fee is hidden?
What I’ve said is that the fee is not disclosed on Tate’s website.
Your comment gave me hope that this had changed. However, I just visited Tate’s website, and exactly as before, the only indication that authors have to pay appears at the bottom of this page–in coded language and with no mention of the actual amount.
So nothing has changed. Tate’s website still makes it very easy for writers to miss the fact that an “author investment” is required, and there’s no mention of the dollar amount involved. In fact, the website emphatically asserts that “Tate Publishing is not a POD, vanity or self-publisher.”
It’s true that the fee is disclosed in the email Tate sends out in response to authors’ queries. But you shouldn’t have to query a publisher in order to find out that it expects you to pay.
To Victoria: I recently submitted my book to Tate, and both their website and their email to me clearly indicated that they do charge the upfront fee of $ 3950. They state if they accept the book, I pay this fee, and they will design the book cover, copy edit the book, and also publicize the book. What are your comments on the above? Why do you keep saying the fee is hidden?
Anonymous 7/06 said,
Greetings. I just was offered a record deal from tate music group.
This person also contacted me via Writer Beware, and I responded privately. Basically, I told them that the music industry isn’t my area of expertise, but I do know that reputable recording companies don’t make their artists pay upfront fees.
Also, even if Anonymous’s agent could persuade Tate to do away with the fee, vanity companies don’t usually have any mechanisms in place to effectively market and distribute their products.
myralmc said,
Why is Whitmore Publishing on your list? Where can I go to find a publisher that won’t jip me?
Have a look at the preamble to the list. It states exactly why the publishers are on the list.
Finding a reputable publisher can be as easy as going to the bookstore and seeing what’s on the shelves. A market guide like Writer’s Market can also help. There are also various lists of publishers you can approach without an agent. Contact me at Writer Beware for a more detailed response.
Most important, though: before you start to submit, you need to know something about the publishing industry. Spending a little time in research first (there are many books about the publishing process; you should be able to find one or two that will help) will answer many of your questions, and make it less likely you’ll approach a disreputable publisher.
Why is Whitmore Publishing on your list? Where can I go to find a publisher that won’t jip me?
Myra
Greetings. I just was offered a record deal from tate music group. The
deal looks solid in some perspective but i am not comfortable with the
artist investement system they have. Originally they asked mt to
invest $3900 but they reduced it to 1900 based off my qaulity. My
agent is going to get it down to zero. Do you feel i should be
comfortable signing with this label if i dont have to pay an artist
investment option. Do guys know more about them.. It is a non exclusive
deal.. thanks guys.. i think your organization is great..
Aside from publishers who can’t get their act together and look for all means possible just to rip you off, there is another type. The publisher who is holier-than-thou and is rude beyond imagination.
For example I posted something based on my thoughts regarding a novel that I have just finished co-authoring. It was out of the bounds of the regular submission protocol and the reply was a combination of insults and abbreviated bad language.
When I wrote back apologising for wasting their time, hinting that their reply spoke volumes, I got another terse response along with the usual abbreviated expletives and then finished by telling me that they were now blacklisting me just because they could.
I don’t want to name them just yet, but if there is any response to this comment then I would be more than happy to do so.
On another note, have you considered using Twitter? What an amazing tool. See me there at http://twitter.com/themeadowblog and learn all about what it can do for you regarding social networking and more.
Finally, if anyone has taken the bother to read all of this, I would be most interested to hear from any professional who can comment on the way that my partner and I have tackled the marketing for our novel “The Meadow”. You can visit us at the URL posted here or go to http://www.themeadowblog.com
Thanks for reading this — whoever you are.
Regards,
Mike O’Hare
I just found this site today and all I can say is “FABULOUS!” Thank you for listing Tate! Your list is a long overdue “gift” to the writing world and an absolutely wonderful blessing! Your insight and commitment in doing this is so very much appreciated!
Thanks I am new to the idea of vanity publishing. An eye-opener.
An addition the Thumbs Down Publisher list:
– Strategic Book Publishing / Eloquent Books: Vanity publishers associated with Writers Literary Agency, which is on Writer Beware’s Thumbs Down Agency List and is the subject of an Alert at Writer Beware.
Also of note: Tate Publishing appears to have expanded with Tate Music Group, which appears to offer an equivalent (i.e., fee-based) service for musicians that Tate Publishing offers for writers. The music industry is not my area of expertise, but I would guess that vanity production for music is no more reputable than vanity publishing for books.
Anonymous,
If you have a question for Writer Beware, please contact us at beware@sfwa.org.
Mr. Tate,
Thanks for your comment. You said this:
We do have a fee for most authors
And then you said this:
I was told by Ann and Victoria in the past that we were added to their list because we don’t disclose our fee amount, the problem is that we often times don’t have a fee
These statements would seem to be contradictory–if most authors have to pay to be published, how can it be that there “often” isn’t a fee?
(To date, Writer Beware has never heard from a Tate author who did not have to pay to be published.)
As Ann and I explained in our correspondence with you, it isn’t just that your website doesn’t disclose the amount you charge for publication–it’s that you barely disclose the fact that there’s a fee at all. The Tate website is constructed and worded to produce the impression that Tate is a commercial publisher–the last time I checked, the fee was mentioned just once on the entire site, in euphemistic language that many authors are likely to miss or misinterpret. Many of the writers who contact us about Tate are surprised to learn they have to pay to publish.
I have a problem. I signed with iUniverse, are they crooked. I can not get out of this, so what should I do. They will not send me royalties of my book? Can someone help me?
Dear Readers,
My name is Ryan Tate and I am the President/CEO of Tate Publishing & Enterprises. I wanted to take this opportunity to enter this blog and make sure you all know how accessible we can be for your comments or questions. At Tate Publishing we focus on giving an author a true chance to succeed. We do have a fee for most authors, but provide services, product, and marketing that no other publisher in the industry will. If you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact our offices to discuss any options we may have for you or if you just have questions about our process to be reviewed and possibly published. I know most companies avoid these types of opportunities, but we look forward to talking with any of you. You may contact our office toll free at 1-888-361-9473 or publish@tatepublishing.com. I was told by Ann and Victoria in the past that we were added to their list because we don’t disclose our fee amount, the problem is that we often times don’t have a fee and our decision to publish is based off of the manuscript and the author’s ability. Hope that helps and we look forward to any questions you may have. I will try to check in on this blog from time to time, but if you need an immediate response, please contact the office.
Thanks,
Ryan Tate
Tate Publishing & Enterprises
Since iUniverse was bought by Author House iUniverse’s rates almost TRIPLED and royalties STOPPED BEING PAID! Royalty reporting and customer service is non existent and puttig in a complaint to BBB and demanding to know why they are not respecting original contract. I have 7 more books ready to publish and REFUSE to use iUniverse UNLESS they go back to the old rates and the OLD and HONEST royalty reporting because Author House is in the UK, passing on their outrageous rates in pounds to unsuspecting new authors and refusing to report and pay royalties, since they think that if they cheat authors who reside out of their (UK) country, the fraud is out of the legal jurisdiction of the UK.
To anyone who gets the email from Publish “America saying they are going to give your book the chance it deserves “Run” they do no editing and no marketing. If you will buy your own book that will be the only sells you make. Your book will never go no farther. Amazon and no other online book seller even will sell your book. I am already stuck with them but i wish i would of waited. I was on there author message board for one hour and got kicked off for asking if anyone had there book in bookstore shelfs. Your book will never go to a bookstore so they lie about that. go to any book store and ask for a publish america title and they can only order it for you at a rediculous price. I sent in a unfinished manuscript to them to see what would happen and they emailed me back and told me everything was great and my book was going on to production. They dont even read the manuscripts. i know it feels good to see that email that your going to get published but i know how long it takes to write a decent book and believe me unless you are just writing for the hell of it dont bother with this company. you will never make no money for all your hard work and effort. They say they have 20000 happy authors but on there message board you will find the same 20 talking and noone else. I am not a rocket scientist but if they have 20000 happy authors you would think at least half would have something to say. Just think about that. i think they have about 100 happy authors and over 19000 pissed. thank you for listening and remember if that email mail comes WE WILL GIVE YOUR BOOK THE CHANCE IT DESERVES “RUN”
I recently signed with Tate Music Group div of Tate Publishing. I was able negotiate down to $1500. But, I am concerned that I will never even see that money. Wish I had read this blog prior.
Thanks for the great information.
Rhonda, please write to me at beware@sfwa.org.
Help! I am “stuck” in a contract with Tate Publishing and need to know how to get OUT!
The problems began with them taking my $4000 in Dec. 2006 and not having my book done until Sept 2007. The little paperback book is a .50 book that I have to pay $4.00 (on top of the $4000).
Today a Colorado Authors League board member called to tell me that my membership had to be “refused – due to the shoddy printing of the book that literally fell apart while they were reading it!”
Libraries won’t take it – NO spine and poor printing quality. Not even school libraries will take it.
Tate hasn’t sold ONE single copy of my book! I’ve sold nearly 200 in 6 months… at an expense!
Can anyone advise me?
THANKS!
~Rhonda
Thank you so very much for this list! I am hoping to eventually publish a book, and I need to be in the know! I’ve only published online, but this is a big help. I’ve got to add myself to your subscription list because if you do an update, I’d like to know. Thanks so very much!
I nominate Black Rose Writing as a particularly clueless entity. http://www.blackrosewriting.com
ArtBookBindery.com–Winnipeg, Canada
My experience with this company has been nothing less than perfect. They did everything they promised and then some. I now have a professional 489 page Hard Cover Novel–Lee Sacks
Victoria Strauss said…
Yawn.
“Jim’s” comment is very similar to one from “exculp” a few posts up. This is no accident. Click on “exculp’s” profile, and it brings you to…Jim’s. Here’s Jim’s blog.
Hmmm. Got a hidden agenda, Jim? Which of the companies we’ve criticized do you own or work for?
———————————-
Obviously not. Read the post(s) again, they are very clear about the misgivings I have about unsubstantiated rumors that damage others efforts and mislead inexperienced writers into accepting the premise that a few of the self appointed experts posting on this blog are actually dealing with factual circumstances.
My greatest amusement is how vociferously a handful of your lackies denounce “vanity publishing” when the only publications they have to their credits are self published or published on one of your, or your cronies websites.
I personally admire people who get off their duffs and actually do something to suceed with their dreams, desires and aspirations. The market place will decide whether or not an authors work is worthy.
Denigrate them all you want, but my hat is off to them.
As soon as I have compiled something that I feel worthy, I fully intend to self publish my work without buying into your obvious distaste for self motivated independently published authors.
I’ve been a participant in the Living Waters thread at Absolute Write from the beginning, but if I knew nothing else about it, the wording on the services page of its current website would make me suspect that it was a vanity publisher. Real publishers don’t provide author “services;” they simply publish books. They also don’t have to make a special point of the fact that they “handle” ISBNs and bar codes. Another red flag: editing other than copy editing is an extra service billed to the author.
As I’ve said elsewhere, I’ll be surprised if this publisher is still in business this time next year.
I would be interested to see your reaction to the information on the website of Living Waters Publishing Company. http://www.livingwaterspc.com/
This is the third version I have seen in four months,meaning they change the message with great frequency. How would you interpret the current information?
Yawn.
“Jim’s” comment is very similar to one from “exculp” a few posts up. This is no accident. Click on “exculp’s” profile, and it brings you to…Jim’s. Here’s Jim’s blog.
Hmmm. Got a hidden agenda, Jim? Which of the companies we’ve criticized do you own or work for?
Writer Beware seems to rely on the inexperience of novice writers to flaunt themselves as “experts.”
Their “black-list” could be construed as an attempt to restrain trade and cause damages to individuals and companies that compete with them or their cronies.
Does Writer Beware sell books or have friends that sell books on how to winnow out so-called unscupulous agents & publishers?
If so, this practice could be profitable when unsubstantiated claims are made public and re-emphasized by several of the regulars posting at this site.
One has to ask themself what the motivation is for putting so much energy into this purpose. Donations? Sales tools? Marginal marketing?
I can’t, for the life of me, figure out why some people dedicate themselves to harming the efforts of others without so much as a smidgen of proof that would hold up in a court of law. I am sure that altruism is not the motivating factor in this kind of behavior.
Another one to avoid is Pagefree; they do the same thing plus refuse to pay royalties. The editing was a joke. They actually added errors so they could charge more to fix them. The covers are simplistic and have nothing to do with the books.
What most authors don’t realize how cheat it is to start your own publishing house for your work. After doing research, I learned that Lightning Source is the printer that most POD use. They charge:
50.00 to scan in a cover
.15 a page to scan in text
12.00 for listing which includes Amazon
55.00 for an individual ISBN numbers a block of ten is 280.00
The cost for the books is also cheaper.
.90 cents base price
.015 cents per page
the base price for a 300 page book is 4.80
You also control content and and the business end. One important element is making the book returnable; if you set up an account it cost nothing to make a book returnable. You set your own discount.
Not only am I a published author but I’m a publishing consultant and publicist. I typeset books and create covers. If you go to my site at http://www.theresachaze.com you can see what I do. I also write press releases and create book trailers.
To anonymous who criticized Outskirts Press. I have had three books published with them, and they are nothing short of phenomenal! I have nothing but praise for the people at Outskirts Press. They are helpful, professional, never pushy, and deliver on their promises. I am still in contact with my publisher representative once or twice a week, and my book was published last July. They are always willing to give their authors ideas for promoting their books through a variety of promotional avenues. My publishing representative responds to my e-mails within hours, instead of days like other publishers. And, they are constantly upgrading their services and publishing options, all in their authors’ favor!
If you don’t believe me, check them out for self at the following website:
http://www.outskirtspress.com/agent.php?key=1958
davidbrookover.net
3/22/08
I’ve got to respond to what ‘anonymous’ said about Outskirts Press. After extensive research regarding publishers, I used Outskirts Press to publish my first book last May (Mercenary Intent), and it has been an OUTSTANDING exprience! I found them professional from the very first contact, and they always did everything they said they would do…PROFESSIONALS all the way. It has been a great experience and I’m preparing to publish my second book with them this year. I’ve had the opportunity to promote my book and do signings in three different countries besides the U.S., and received praise regarding the cover art and overall quality eveywhere I’ve been. For my money, Outskirts Press was a great choice! DennisHambright.com
Stay away from Outskirts Press. My experience was a nightmare. Simply put, they don’t know what they are doing. They assign you an “author rep” who knows nothing about the English language and the entire crew is “Amateur Hour” – stay away!
After having my manuscript for nearly a year, I’ve just received a letter from Harbor House, saying they’d be willing to publish my novel if I will buy 700 copies (to distribute as I see fit). I’m thinking I need to run, not walk.
I note that the criteria for blacklisting these publishers is somewhat broad and subject to interpretation (misconstruing).
I do not see any supportive facts that would substantiate some of the claims for this journalistic McCarthyism.
It could appear that there may be a conflict of interest or personal motivation for maintaining such a list. In any event, this practice is suspect at a minimum.
Conny 1109 said,
Does anybody have any experiences to share about http://www.willowravenillustration.com ?
Conny, please see this discussion of WillowRaven at Absolute Write. In Writer Beware’s opinion, she’s an amateur agent. You may also be interested in this discussion of the publisher she’s associated with, Living Waters Publishing Company.
suzjqz said,
I just got an offer from Tate last week. I have not signed yet because of the $4k they ask for. Has anything changed since last year or are they still really bad?
As far as Writer Beware knows, Tate’s operation hasn’t changed since we compiled the Thumbs Down List. They still charge nearly $4,000. They still don’t reveal this fact on their website.
As I noted in an earlier comment, if you want to pay to publish (which is rarely a good choice for a writer looking to establish a career), there are cheaper options that don’t present themselves, misleadingly, as “traditional” publishers.
Wow! I just got an offer from Tate last week. I have not signed yet because of the $4k they ask for. Has anything changed since last year or are they still really bad?
Does anybody have any experiences to share about http://www.willowravenillustration.com ?
They seem nice.
Then again, they all SEEM nice.
Thanks
Questions for Writer Beware should be sent to beware@sfwa.org.
I’ve responded to Mr. Giordano via email, but for anyone who is curious, complaints we’ve received about Archebooks fall into Criteria 2, 6, and 7.
I am surprised by the inclusion of Archebooks Publishing on your list of publishers to be wary of. Bob Galenas, the Publisher, is a scheduled presenter at the Naples Press Club’s 6th Annual Writers Conference in April and I plan to attend. I was considering approaching Bob with my novel so before I do, I would appreciate knowing why this company made the beware list. Would appreciate hearing from you ASAP. Thanks. Howard Giordano
I speak only for myself but find myself on this site out of frustration and anger with Trafford Publishing, operating out of Victoria B.C. From the beginning Trafford lied and made one excuse after another as what the hold-up with the publication of my book was. Now I have two students show up in my class with books purchased from Trafford, but after two months there is still no posting of sales to my author’s account. To me this is the biggest fly in the oatmeal as a PDO can make and sell an author’s book but there are no checks and balances to guaranttee that the publisher will in fact pay the author his due. It is called stealing. I am in the process of severing all ties with Trafford and would urge all authors and writers to not make the same mistake that I have. Perhaps Trafford’s political stance explains their duplicitous nature…they are ultra conservative; just another reason not to do business with them. Sincerely Michael A. Saylor doing business as firstpancakeproductions.com
Thanks for the help! Garry Galanti ggallant@hughes.net – I have five novels looking for a self-publishing home. Is Author House on a favored list? How about you? And, I am reviving Cafe Top Gallant .com Literary Site. All is open
You might start by not insinuating that they are unimaginative and inhibited. Your comment makes you sound like an ass and I wouldn’t pay you fifty cents to correct my typos.
I have always wanted to be a writer, however, my imagination or free thinking always halts my efforts. I am an avid reader. I type extremely well and find myself constantly picking out errors in books. How do I explore a field in helping true writers with editing or transcribing?
Anybody have any experience or info. with Water Forest Press or Publisher Victoria Valentine?
what a great list!
We’ll provide specific detail on any of the publishers on the list if you contact us at beware@sfwa.org.
The Print on Demand page of Writer Beware provides links to resources to help writers identify trustworthy self-publishing companies.
1)Is there a way to see the offenses from your list of abuses for the publishers on your list?
2)Is there a list of “good” self-publishing firms?
I only descried this eleemosynary and sagacious website today, but it is so august that I must promulgate my panegyrics!
The blurbs for Travis Tea are easily some of the funniest spoof works I have read in a long, long time. I am not an” out loud laugher”, but actually was cachinnating audibly today. BRAVO!!!
Late last year, I emailed my manuscript to Whitmore Publishing’s website. They turned out to be quite selective in their publishing practice. However, they said that they would inform me of their decision. They never did. I resubmitted my manuscript to their website a couple of months later. Again I heard nothing. Now, I know there’s something wrong here.
B. A. Rainey
Thanks for the nice post!
Publish America really sucks and should be put out of business, by any means necessary!
It’s been little over a year for my book, “Forceful Persuasion” has been published through PA. There were a few errors, but every good book has some kind of errors. PA has been pretty good to me so far and I was one of those first time authors. I submitted my manuscript because I was upset and afraid that I was going to lose my job at a major retailer.
Now, I’m searching for a literary agent and writing to as many I as can, but I keep getting rejection e-mail. They’re not mean letters, they make me stronger. They’re nice and wishing me luck for the next one I write a synopsis and cover letter to. I’ve been following Writer Beware for Literary Agents and Publishers.
PublishAmerica made me feel good because I felt my work was worth it. I was 25 at the time and to me, having my work accepted the first time meant a lot to me. I was so glad to see my name in print. I’m always open to ideas and suggestions for a literary agent.
Thank you for doing this.
As a new author, who just signed a contract with American Book Publishing, I am literally sick to read about the publishing company that now owns my first fantastic book. Oh, how I wish that I could back out of the contract.
Hi there. I have a question about PA. I’m currently trying to get my rights back and hired a lawyer. My lawyer has attempted to email PA three times already, and they have ignored them.
Do you have any suggestions as to what our next step should be?
I need all the advice I can get.
Thanks.
Charlie.
Obviously, from what has been expressed here, it would be in everyone’s best interest to approach publication more cautiously, but where does one begin?
Begin by educating yourself about the publishing process. This will teach you what publishers and agents should do, which will make it much easier for you to recognize bad or nonstandard practice when you encounter it. It’s really very easy to avoid bad publishers and agents, once you know how to identify the warning signs.
I have a detailed post called “Learning the Ropes” that offers some suggestions.
Publish America has returned my email saying that they are intrested in publishing my book. They said that it was at no cost to me, and I keep most of my rights. So what is the pitfall with them?
Although it presents itself as a “traditional” publisher, PublishAmerica does little or no marketing for its books, and its distribution system is no different from that used by iUniverse and other POD self-publishing services. Its main source of book sales are its own authors and their friends and family. PA regularly offers “incentives” to encourage its authors to buy their own books.
PA also doesn’t do much in the way of editorial gatekeeping. This means that it’s as happy to publish a bad book as a good one. PA has been the subject of several submission hoaxes to test this. Here’s one. Here’s another.
PublishAmerica does not provide real editing. It employs underqualified staff who at best provide light copy editing, and at worst introduce errors into the published books. It also offers writers the option to publish their books without any editing at all–something a commercial publisher would never do.
Just a general warning about Renaissance e-books. The publisher broke off contact with me, ignores e-mails, ignored two registered letters, has failed to send latest sales figures for last quarter, and has failed to send royalties. Publisher has refused cancellation of contract by maintianing my book on her website without compensation. Contract states that all disputes must be met with binding arbitration….arbitration costs $350, way more then made on the book. Would NOT recommend this publisher to anyone
Greetings to all,
And now that you have succeeded within utterly terrifying me concerning publication, do you have any positive suggestions?
I’m awaiting the arrival of my complete first novel from the editor(due next week) and have contacted several of the vanity publishers mentioned in this blog…
Obviously, from what has been expressed here, it would be in everyone’s best interest to approach publication more cautiously, but where does one begin?
Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
All my very best
Alex
Publish America has returned my email saying that they are intrested in publishing my book. They said that it was at no cost to me, and I keep most of my rights. So what is the pitfall with them?
helm publishing appears to no longer be in Rockford, IL, but rather in Lake Dallas, TX.
Good. At least I won’t be tempted by a “Local” place now. 🙂
Thanks
dan
It seems that Vantage is the only honest one left!
Tate Publishing did a horrible job “editing” my book. It was awful. My final manuscript, that they said was ready to go to print, had over 200 errors in it. Not exaggerating. The editing was brutal. I was told they would do an excellent job of running a fine comb through my manuscript and they didn’t do any editing. Awful experience with that.
Anon.
This is a wonderful resource! I look forward t learning much mor. My book is almost ready for publishing and I have to say, getting scammed is my bigget concern
A friend of mine’s son got hooked up with Tate. Those kind Christian folks took $2000 from him because he couldn’t come up with the entire $4000. Then they left him high and dry. “Pay the other half or nothing for your money.”
Pierce Watters
Hi, M.J.–
Dorrance is an expensive vanity publisher. It charges thousands of dollars to print up a few hundred copies of your book. It often solicits people based on copyright registration lists.
If you want to go the yripay-to-publish route (which often is not the best choice, especially for novelists looking to establish a career), there are much cheaper options. For some of these, as well as a discussion of their pitfalls, see the Print on Demand page of Writer Beware. For why vanity publishing is never a good idea, see the Vanity Publishers page of Writer Beware.
You don’t need to register copyright for an unpublished work. For more information, see the Copyright page of Writer Beware.
Hi, Does anyone know anything about Dorrance Publishing Company in Pittsburgh, PA? I sent for a copyright and received a letter from a scout saying that they would love to publish my story under their subsidy program. Thanks, M.J.
Hello. My comment on the publisher’s list: are there any “parent” publishing companies to The New York Literary Agency? & if there are, why aren’t any of them listed since it is obviously one of THE worst?
Dear Victoria,
Yes, I did pay Tate Publishing $4000,but I also realized, in order to take my book from editing through marketing, their invested amount would far exceed the $4000 I was investing. There was never any secrets about this charge and I was fully aware before I ever received a contract from them. There is no doubt in my mind that authors that have partnered with Tate Publishing will agree with me, they have been completely upfront — no secrets, no fine print and never once have they veered from our original agreement.
Thank you so much for your time. I appreciate your listening to me.
Sincerely,
Terry Adams
Dear Victoria,
I’m sorry for my faux pas in the salutation of my last note. I had not noticed that you had written me rather than Ann.
Thank you again for your time.
Terry Adams
Terry, thanks for your comment. I assume that you, like all the other Tate authors and submitters Writer Beware has heard from, had to pay nearly $4,000 for your contract with Tate?
How shocked I was to see Tate Publishing on your list of worst publishers.Because of my personal experience with Ryan and Trinity Tate,I feel a necessity to speak up in their behalf.
Being a first time author and not realizing the unethical practices that some publishers and agents are guilty of,several offered me contracts. Not once was my manuscript denied, making me feel that my novel was marketable. Once a contract was signed, I realized that I was a pawn. Their interest was in money, my money.
Looking for a legitimate publisher, the angels lead me to Tate Publishing. I cannot say anything but good about Ryan and Trinity Tate. I have found them to be honest, trustworthy, kind, supportive of their authors and the kind of Christians that practice their faith rather than preach it. They have been very upfront with their beliefs and their policies. They have followed their contract with excellence.
If you are an author looking for a publisher that you know you can trust, I suggest you go to Tate’s, I know you will not be disappointed. They have renewed my faith in the publishing industry.
Sincerely,
Terry Adams
April l8, 2007
Reading the criteria, I’m thinking Zeus Publications, tick, tick, tick…
If PublishAmerica makes the list, why doesn’t AuthorHouse, iUniverse and Xlibris? Besides convincing deluded and desparate people that they are writers and should be in print, they also fit many of the criteria listed.
Fantastic list. I wish I had found it long ago. I didn’t go with a “traditional” publisher, but I queried my novel to SEVERAL of these companies and agents. Yikes!
You can bet I’ll be back when I am ready to query my second novel.
Your research and work is to be commended. Thank you!
Hi know it’s a bit late but I linked to your blog about these publishers.
Even though I’m not at the stage of writing where I need an agent or publisher I appreciate all the hard work y’all do. I’m sure others feel the same.
Fight the good fight.
Vanessa Bellucini said:
Let’s say–hypothetically–you’re with one of these companies as a first-time author, with a “Right of First Refusal to Next Work”.
Is there any recourse that doesn’t involve a lawsuit? Or at least, a way to save face?
I’d start by simply asking to be let out of the option clause. Sometimes this works. Get it in writing, though.
Depending on the publisher, your option clause may not be all that onerous (I know that some of the publishers on our list have very bad option clauses, and some don’t–in fact, some don’t have option clauses at all–but I’m not in my office right now and can’t check which is which). If it allows you to refuse the publisher’s offer and gives the publisher a set timeframe in which to decide, you can simply submit a manuscript and refuse the offer if it’s tendered.
If there’s no time limit for the publisher’s decision (which means it has no obligation to respond quickly, and could keep your manuscript for months), or if you aren’t specifically allowed to refuse the publisher’s offer, you might want to consider seeking legal advice on how to get out of the option clause. This doesn’t necessarily have to involve a lawsuit. On the Overview page of Writer Beware, there’s a section on Legal Recourse that provides links to the American Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service and Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (a volunteer organization that specializes in providing legal assistance for people in the arts). Either service will arrange an initial low-cost or pro-bono consultation for you to discuss your situation, after which you can decide on what further action to take.
I know some authors who’ve submitted trunk manuscripts in order to satisfy option clauses. That’s another possibility, as long as you can refuse an offer of publication (presumably you don’t want your trunk novel in print).
I’ll be glad to comment on a specific option clause if you’ll send it to me directly: beware@sfwa.org
Let’s say–hypothetically–you’re with one of these companies as a first-time author, with a “Right of First Refusal to Next Work”.
Is there any recourse that doesn’t involve a lawsuit? Or at least, a way to save face?
I have been working with Whitmore Publishing Co. and found them to be professional, prompt and sincere to their word. I even received a tiny advance from them. The contract was sound and the book came out fantastic. It received a five-star, “Highly Recommended” review from the Midwest Book Review in February. I think people still associate Whitmore with its parent company who is a self-publisher, however Whitmore is not.
Archebooks is on that list…?
Wow.
Alexandra, for an answer to your question, you can write us direct: beware@sfwa.org.
That’s my kind of Valentine’s Day post! *g*
Just out of curiosity, which publisher has which practice(s)? I’m not a writer, just someone with an interest in literary scams, and would like to know more, if that wouldn’t take too much time.
Thanks!
—Alexandra
I’m not sure I know who that southern gentleman is, but I do know that it is a Good Thing.
And finally, thanks for posting the list. Though it would have been so much nicer to have PublishAmerica listed nine times and American Book Publishing in 10th, at least you saved room for 11 others.
You gals just plain rock. Thank you for all you do.
I posted this on the appropriate thread downstream. Joel Ratner of zirdlander is in the firstchapters contest with a novel with the title HMS., The Compass Rose. It’s a famous ship already in a 1952
movie.
Compass Rose
Dave, Ann, Victoria, if the gentleman is who I think it may be, this has been a long time coming. Congratulations and good luck.
Aconite
I got tied up today, figuratively, and didn’t get my call out to him. Should you speak with him before I have an opportunity, Ann, please let him know that P&E will cooperate in furnishing information.
Well, P&E does recommend that writers seek out more than one source for information.
By the way, Ann and Victoria, there’s a friendly gentleman in a southern state who might want to talk to us about one of our favorite topics. I hope to call him tomorrow and offer access to some files. If you get in touch with me by email tomorrow, I’ll share his phone number should you wish to join in.
Thank you so much for all you do.
This list came at the perfect time. A writer in one of my groups has received interest from one of the publishers on this list and was looking for more information about them. I sent him this link.
(Strangely, this writer was aware of the “not recommended” notice on P&E. However, I think some writers are so anxious to get published, they want to believe that these companies can’t be “that bad”.)
Dear Anonymous:
We sure do! You can access the “20 Worst Agents List” on this blog, and also on Writer Beware’s main site: http://www.writerbeware.com
Thanks for asking!
-Ann C. Crispin
Chair, Writer Beware
http://www.writerbeware.com
Thanx for your post, i am new to your blog, do you have a similar list for agents?
Thank you, and bless your Valentine hearts! 🙂
Good stuff you two. Let’s hope this will soon put a dent in their bottom lines.
Thanks for the list! I’m going to link to it from my blog sometime today.
~JerseyGirl
And a Happy Valentine’s Day to both of you! 🙂
Teddy – Cobwebs Of The Mind
Wow, I have been reading the Beware and Background check section at AW for a year now and some of these names are new to me. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thank you! I’ve been waiting to see that list for a long time.
Bless your hearts! Happy Valentine’s Day!
BTW, can you add a category for being truly obnoxious and assinine blow-hards? After the last post, PA has to come in as #1.
I’m shocked the PublishAmerica is on the list. LOL
Thanks for doing this!