The Vanity Press Trap

The publishing industry is booming, but unfortunately, that growth attracts bad actors. You may have heard the term "Vanity Press." These are companies that prey on an author's desire for validation, promising the moon but delivering a garage full of unsellable books.

At Author Services, we spend a lot of time helping authors recover from bad experiences elsewhere. To save you the heartache, here are five red flags to watch for:

1. They claim they "Select" you (but accept everyone).

The Trap: They act like a traditional publisher, sending you a glowing acceptance letter claiming your manuscript is a masterpiece—before they've even read it.

The Truth: A reputable service provider (like us) will be honest. We will tell you if your book needs editing. We focus on polishing your work, not flattery.

2. They take a percentage of your royalties.

If you are paying for the production costs, you should keep 100% of the net royalties. Period. If you pay and they take a cut, that is double-dipping.

3. They control the price of your book.

Some predatory presses price your paperback at $29.99 so they can make a higher profit. This ensures no one buys it. At Author Services, we help you set a competitive market price.

4. You can't get someone on the phone.

If the entire relationship is via automated emails, run. Writing is personal. You should have access to a real human—an Author Success Coach—who knows your name and your project.

5. They promise Hollywood fame.

If a publisher guarantees your book will become a movie, they are lying. We promise professional quality, global distribution, and expert guidance. We promise to give your book the best chance of success. But we will never sell you a fantasy.