In late 2021, as I wrapped up the final draft of my manuscript for ‘Dare To Be YOU,’ I embarked on a search for a reliable editing and publishing company. My journey, however, turned into a challenging lesson in the pitfalls of the publishing world, particularly in dealing with hybrid vanity publishing scams.
A Disheartening Experience with a Ghostwriter
My first encounter with deceit came from a so-called author, Darius Stephens, who promised comprehensive ghostwriting and publishing services. After investing $11,000 and countless hours in discussions, it became painfully clear that I was ensnared in a scam, with nothing to show for my investment.
The Lure of a Hybrid Publishing Firm
Seeking to move past this setback, I reached out to a recommended hybrid publishing firm. Trusting a colleague’s referral, I bypassed my usual diligence checks, only to find myself in another dubious situation. The firm’s representative sold me on an attractively priced publishing program, which later revealed numerous hidden costs and questionable demands.
The Editorial and Design Process: A Series of Letdowns
As I progressed with the publishing firm, red flags continued to emerge. Contradictory information about editing services, additional charges for content editing, and misleading contractual agreements piled up. The quality of their editorial and design work was subpar, and my attempts to address these issues were met with evasion and unresponsiveness.
Deceptive Marketing and Sales Tactics
The situation worsened as the firm aggressively pushed their marketing campaigns, preying on my commitment to my book. Despite assurances of significant returns and potential movie deals, their tactics felt increasingly manipulative and pressure-filled.
Taking a Stand and Seeking Resolution
Frustrated and disillusioned, I took action. I disputed the charges with my bank and demanded a contract cancellation and refund from the publishing firm. Despite their persistent calls, I stood firm in my decision, bolstered by my bank’s support and the prospect of working with a new, more professional editing company.
A New Beginning and Hopeful Future
Now, with a reputable editing team by my side, I am on track to publish ‘Dare To Be YOU’ authentically and professionally. This experience, though fraught with challenges, has been an invaluable lesson in vigilance, resilience, and the importance of thorough research in the publishing industry.
Lessons for Aspiring Authors
My journey serves as a cautionary tale for fellow writers, particularly women who are venturing into the world of book publishing. Be wary of vanity publishing scams, conduct thorough research on potential collaborators, and always trust your instincts. The path to publishing is often complex, but with perseverance and informed choices, it is possible to bring your vision to life.
In sharing my story, I hope to empower others to navigate the publishing landscape with confidence and caution. Your story deserves to be told, and with the right partners, your book can indeed become a beacon of inspiration and success.©
Copyright © 2022 Lynette Diehm.
All rights reserved. No part of this post may be used or reproduced by any means, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.
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