The Hidden Dangers of Hybrid Publishing: What Every Author Must Know

When you’re writing your first book, the dream is simple — to hold your finished work in your hands, see it in bookshops, and share it with readers around the world. For me, that dream almost died before it began. Before I was a best-selling author, I was just like many aspiring writers: passionate, hopeful, and trusting. I believed that if I worked hard on my manuscript and partnered with the right publisher, my book would get the professional treatment it deserved. I was wrong. The Beginning: A Dream Taking Shape Like many first-time authors, I didn’t have an inside track to the publishing industry. I’d never met an agent, and I had no contacts in the world of book production. What I did have was enthusiasm, a completed manuscript, and a willingness to invest in my own success. I started researching my options. ● Traditional publishing offered prestige, but getting noticed by an agent was a slow and competitive process. ● Self-publishing offered speed and control, but I didn’t have the skills or confidence to handle editing, design, and marketing alone. That’s when I found hybrid publishing. It was marketed as the best of both worlds: the control of self-publishing with the expertise of a traditional publisher. The company I discovered had: ● A professional-looking website with carefully worded promises. ● Testimonials from “happy authors” (I would later learn these were not always genuine). ● A sales team who reassured me they would handle “everything” so I could focus on writing. It felt like the answer I’d been searching for. The Reality: A Costly Mistake After some back-and-forth emails, I signed the contract. The total cost was several thousand pounds — not cheap, but I reasoned it was worth the investment for a professionally published book. Then the cracks began to show. ● Editing was superficial . The feedback I received was minimal, often correcting typos but ignoring deeper structural or pacing issues. I began to wonder if anyone had truly read my book with care. ● The cover design was uninspired. It didn’t reflect my genre or target audience, and when I asked for changes, I was told revisions would cost extra. ● Marketing was a vague afterthought . The promised “campaign” amounted to a press release sent to an unverified list and a handful of generic social media posts. When I questioned the quality of the work, I was met with polite but empty reassurances. Sometimes my emails went unanswered for days. It became clear that my success was not their priority — getting my payment had been. By the time my book was technically published, my excitement had been replaced by disappointment. I had spent thousands, but the product I received was a shadow of what I’d envisioned. The Turning Point At that point, I faced a choice: ● Accept the loss, live with a subpar book, and quietly move on. ● Or take back control and do it properly. I chose the second option. I spent months learning how the publishing process really worked. I researched professional freelance editors who actually understood my genre, commissioned a custom cover designer whose work impressed me, and learned about distribution and metadata so my book could be found by real readers. I re-edited, redesigned, and relaunched my book under my own steam. The difference was night and day. This time, the reviews were positive, sales started to climb, and my book reached the audience I’d always dreamed of. Eventually, I became a best-selling author — something I never would have achieved if I’d stuck with that first disappointing version. Why I Started Dave Palmer Consulting That experience left a deep mark on me. I realised that for every author like me who fought back, there were countless others who walked away from publishing altogether — discouraged, out of pocket, and doubting their own talent. I created Dave Palmer Consulting to change that. My mission is to give authors: ● Honest, transparent advice before they spend a penny. ● Professional, industry-standard services that genuinely help them succeed. ● A partner they can trust, who’s been through the pitfalls and knows how to avoid them. Whether an author needs editing, cover design, formatting, marketing, or the full publishing package, they retain 100% of their rights and have a clear understanding of every cost and deliverable from day one. Helping Others Avoid the Pitfalls Since starting DPC, I’ve worked with authors across the UK and beyond, guiding them from manuscript to finished book without the risks I faced. Some come to me before they publish, looking for a safe, professional path. Others come after a bad experience, determined to fix the damage. In both cases, my role is the same: protect their work, provide quality services, and restore their confidence. I often tell new authors: “Your book is more than a product — it’s part of you. Don’t trust it to someone who sees you as nothing more than an invoice.” Key Takeaways for New Authors If you’re thinking about publishing your book, remember: ● Research deeply — Don’t rely solely on testimonials found on a company’s website. ● Never sign under pressure — Real professionals won’t rush you into a decision. ● Know your rights — Retaining ownership of your work is non-negotiable. ● Ask for specifics — If a publisher can’t give you detailed examples of their marketing results, be cautious. ● Trust your instincts — If something feels off, it probably is. Final Word I share my story not because I enjoy reliving it, but because I know there’s another writer out there — perhaps you — standing where I once stood, pen in hand, ready to sign a deal that could cost far more than money. Publishing your book should be one of the proudest moments of your life. With the right support, it can be. Dave Palmer Consulting exists to make sure that every author I work with can publish with confidence, pride, and complete peace of mind.

Publishing a book should be one of the most exciting moments of your life — the moment years of work finally reach the hands of readers. But for too many authors, that excitement is crushed by the harsh reality of dealing with a predatory or scam publisher. These companies often hide behind slick websites, warm sales calls, and polished promises. They know how to say exactly what a hopeful author wants to hear. But once they have your signature and your payment, the reality often falls far short of the dream. Dave Palmer knows this because he’s lived it. Before he became a best-selling author and launched Dave Palmer Consulting, He was caught in the trap of a hybrid publishing company that charged thousands and delivered very little in return. Today, his mission is to help other authors avoid making the same mistake. Here are seven red flags to watch out for — and how to protect yourself from them. 1. Vague or Overly Glossy Promises If a publisher can’t explain how they will deliver on their claims, be wary. Scam publishers rely on broad, exciting promises like “We’ll make you a best-seller” or “We guarantee worldwide exposure” — but they often fail to explain the exact steps involved. A genuine publisher will: ● Explain each stage of the process. ● Provide clear, realistic timelines. ● Be honest about what they can’t guarantee (e.g., bestseller status). Dave’s tip: Always ask for real-world examples. “Show me exactly what you did for another author” is a powerful question — and if they dodge it, that’s your answer. 2. High Upfront Fees Without Transparency Some publishing models require the author to invest financially, and that’s not inherently wrong. But a red flag appears when: ● Costs are bundled without an itemised breakdown. ● Services are priced far above industry averages. ● The publisher refuses to compare costs to hiring independent professionals. Dave’s own experience included paying thousands for “marketing” that amounted to little more than a generic press release — something that could have been done for under £100. Average industry costs (for comparison): ● Professional edit: £800–£1,500 (depending on length and depth) ● Custom cover design: £300–£800 ● Formatting: £150–£500 If a publisher’s package is significantly above these numbers without clear justification, take a step back. 3. Unclear Contracts or Ownership Terms Losing the rights to your own book is one of the most damaging mistakes an author can make. Scam publishers may: ● Insert rights-grabbing clauses in complex legal language. ● Retain ownership of your ISBN. ● Control distribution in a way that prevents you from moving your book elsewhere. Dave’s tip: You should retain full copyright and ISBN ownership unless you knowingly choose otherwise. If the contract doesn’t say so plainly, get legal advice before signing. 4. Pushy Sales Tactics Legitimate publishers give you time to consider your decision. Predatory companies create false urgency, using phrases like: ● “We can only take on two more authors this month.” ● “If you pay today, we can give you a special price.” ● “This opportunity won’t come around again.” These tactics are designed to stop you from researching alternatives or seeking advice. Red flag: If the offer is genuine, it will still be there tomorrow. 5. No Genuine Third-Party Reviews Scam publishers may show testimonials from “happy authors” — but these can be cherry-picked or outright fake. Before committing: ● Search for independent reviews on platforms they don’t control. ● Join online writing communities and ask about the company. ● Reach out to authors directly and ask about their experience. Dave's Tip: A reputable publisher will have no problem connecting you with past clients for honest feedback. 6. Lack of Industry-Standard Quality A publisher’s portfolio should speak volumes. If their sample books feature: ● Amateur cover design. ● Poor layout or inconsistent formatting. ● Sloppy editing with obvious mistakes. …it’s a sign they’re cutting corners. In today’s competitive market, presentation matters — readers do judge a book by its cover. 7. Marketing That’s All Talk, No Action Marketing is the most misrepresented part of publishing packages. Many scam publishers: ● Promise “placement” in bookstores (which often means simply listing the book as available to order). ● Talk about “media outreach” without any concrete strategy or follow-up. ● Offer inflated expectations without providing past campaign results. Dave’s tip: Always ask exactly what marketing services are included, how they will be delivered, and how success will be measured. If they can’t show proof of previous results, it’s a red flag. How Dave Palmer Consulting is Different At Dave Palmer Consulting, transparency isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of the business. ● No hidden clauses — every author retains full rights to their work. ● Clear, fair pricing — you know exactly what you’re paying for and why. ● High-quality results — editing, design, and formatting meet industry standards, every time. Most importantly, Dave treats every book as if it were his own — because he knows exactly how much it means to you. Final Word If you spot even one of these red flags, pause and investigate before moving forward. The wrong publisher can cost you money, time, and confidence. Dave Palmer Consulting exists to give authors a safe, professional path to publication — one where you stay in control and your book gets the care it deserves. Quick Checklist: Spotting a Scam Publisher ● Promises are vague or unrealistic. ● Costs are high but not itemised. ● Contract terms are unclear or restrict your rights. ● Sales pressure is applied to make you sign quickly. ● No independent or verified reviews. ● Portfolio shows poor quality work. ● Marketing promises are vague or unverifiable.

When you’ve spent months — or even years — writing your book, the moment you start exploring publishing options can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. In that excitement, it’s tempting to believe the first company that promises everything you’ve been dreaming of: bestseller status, global distribution, media coverage, and more. But as the old saying goes: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Dave Palmer knows this lesson all too well. Before becoming a best-selling author and founding Dave Palmer Consulting, he signed with a hybrid publisher who made dazzling promises — the kind that seemed to answer all his hopes as a new author. The reality was far from what he’d been sold. This article explores why these “dream deals” are often anything but, and how to protect yourself from costly disappointment. The Anatomy of a ‘Too Good to Be True’ Offer Predatory publishers know exactly how to press an author’s emotional buttons. They’ll use your enthusiasm and inexperience to craft a deal that sounds perfect — but hides the pitfalls in the fine print. Here’s what’s often included: ● Grand promises with no accountability — “We’ll make your book a bestseller” without a clear marketing plan or proof of past success. ● Exaggerated distribution claims — Listing your book as available through major retailers is not the same as actually getting it stocked or promoted. ● Inflated marketing packages — Costly bundles that amount to little more than generic social media posts or a single press release. ● Pressure to sign quickly — Limited-time offers designed to stop you from researching alternatives. Dave’s Story: A Cautionary Example When Dave received his publishing proposal, it ticked every emotional box: professional editing, a beautifully designed cover, guaranteed distribution, and a “custom marketing plan” to get his book noticed. It wasn’t cheap — but he was told that this was an investment in his career, a necessary step to stand alongside the “big names” in his genre. Once he signed and paid: ● The editing was rushed and missed important developmental issues. ● The cover was generic and poorly suited to his audience. ● The marketing turned out to be vague, unmeasurable, and ineffective. The dazzling promises quickly dissolved into frustration. The “too good to be true” deal had, in fact, been exactly that. Why These Deals Rarely Deliver 1. They Rely on Hype, Not Substance Companies making bold guarantees often lack the resources — or intent — to follow through. Their profit comes from signing authors, not selling books. 2. The Costs Outweigh the Value High-priced packages are often padded with services you don’t need, at rates far above market value. 3. They Use Your Inexperience Against You First-time authors may not know what’s realistic in the publishing world, making them more vulnerable to unrealistic promises. 4. Marketing is the Weakest Link While editing and design can be delivered (even if poorly), marketing is harder to prove — making it easy for scammers to hide a lack of real results. Red Flags to Watch For ● “Guaranteed bestseller” claims. ● Unclear or missing timelines for deliverables. ● Refusal to give itemised pricing. ● Pressure to sign within days or hours. ● Vague marketing descriptions like “media outreach” or “brand building” with no specifics. ● No independent reviews or verified case studies. How to Protect Yourself Dave’s golden rule: If a company makes a promise, ask them to explain exactly how they will deliver it — and ask for proof they’ve done it before. Here’s how to safeguard your publishing journey: ● Research the company independently — Don’t rely solely on their testimonials. ● Get multiple quotes for the same services from independent professionals. ● Read the contract slowly — Watch for rights grabs or vague terms. ● Ask for specific marketing deliverables and examples of past campaigns. ● Don’t let excitement override caution — A genuine opportunity will survive a little scrutiny. The Dave Palmer Consulting Difference At Dave Palmer Consulting, there are no unrealistic promises. Instead: ● You get clear, honest advice about what’s possible — and what isn’t. ● Every service is itemised and transparent, so you know exactly where your money goes. ● Rights always remain yours, without exception. ● Marketing strategies are tailored, measurable, and realistic. Dave’s own experience with a “too good to be true” deal inspired the opposite approach: protecting authors, setting realistic expectations, and delivering work that genuinely meets industry standards. The publishing world is full of opportunity — but it’s also full of traps for the unwary. If a deal promises more than seems possible, take a step back and look closer. By asking the right questions and seeking advice from someone who’s been there, you can avoid the heartbreak and expense of a false promise — and instead, move forward with confidence. If you want a publishing partner who will give you the truth from day one, Dave Palmer Consulting is here to guide you every step of the way.

When you finish your book, you’re not just holding a manuscript — you’re holding the product of months or years of imagination, discipline, and hard work. It’s your voice, your story, and your intellectual property. But the moment you start talking to publishers, that ownership can be at risk. If you don’t fully understand your rights as an author, it’s all too easy to sign them away without realising it. Dave Palmer has seen it happen — and lived it himself. Before becoming a best-selling author and launching Dave Palmer Consulting, Dave signed a contract with a hybrid publisher that contained hidden clauses affecting his control over his own work. Now, his mission is to help other authors avoid making the same mistake.  In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of author’s rights, the traps to avoid, and how to make sure your book stays firmly in your hands. What Are Author Rights? Author rights are the legal protections, and ownership claims you have over your work. They determine: ● Who can publish your book. ● How it can be adapted or reproduced. ● Who profits from sales and adaptations. ● How your name and work can be used. The two most important rights for authors to understand are: 1. Copyright – Your legal ownership of the work. 2. ISBN Ownership – The control of the book’s identity in publishing databases. Copyright: The Cornerstone of Control In the UK, copyright is automatically yours the moment you create the work. You don’t have to register it, but you do need to protect it. Why it matters: ● If you give away your copyright, the publisher becomes the legal owner of your work. ● They can change it, adapt it, or stop you from republishing it without your permission. Dave’s tip: Never sign a contract that transfers your copyright to the publisher unless you understand exactly what you’re giving up and why. In most cases, you should only grant a licence for specific uses, for a limited time, and with clear termination terms. ISBN Ownership: More Important Than You Think An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is like your book’s passport — it’s how retailers, distributors, and libraries identify it. Some publishers will insist on providing the ISBN under their name. While this might seem harmless, it gives them a degree of control over distribution, pricing, and even availability. Best practice: Purchase your own ISBNs through the official agency (in the UK, that’s Nielsen ISBN Store). This way, your name or company will be the publisher of record, not the service provider. Common Contract Traps That Threaten Your Rights From Dave’s experience — and the many authors he’s helped — these are the most common ways rights are lost: 1. Perpetual or Open-Ended Contracts Contracts with no clear end date can trap your book for decades. Always ensure there’s a termination clause. 2. All Rights Clauses Some contracts ask for “all rights in all formats, worldwide” — far beyond what’s necessary. 3. Rights for Unused Services A publisher might ask for adaptation rights (film, audio, translation) even if they have no plan to use them. 4. Non-Compete Clauses These clauses can stop you from publishing another book — even in a different genre — for a set period of time. Dave’s Story: Learning the Hard Way When Dave signed with his first hybrid publisher, he didn’t realise the contract gave them partial control over his book’s ISBN and a level of distribution authority that limited his freedom to relaunch the title elsewhere. This became a problem when he wanted to re-edit and re-release the book independently. The process was slower, costlier, and more frustrating than it should have been — all because of a few lines of legal text he hadn’t fully understood. It’s why, at Dave Palmer Consulting, every author retains full rights to their work and ISBNs from day one. How to Protect Your Rights 1. Read Every Clause — Take your time. Don’t be pressured into signing quickly. 2. Seek Legal Advice — A publishing contract is a legal document. Have it reviewed by someone who understands publishing law. 3. Retain Your Copyright — Only license it for specific uses. 4. Buy Your Own ISBNs — Stay in control of your book’s publishing record. 5. Ask for a Termination Clause — Make sure you can walk away if the relationship doesn’t work. The Dave Palmer Consulting Approach At Dave Palmer Consulting: ● Authors always own their copyright and ISBNs. ● Contracts are clear, plain English, and jargon-free. ● Services are provided on a project-by-project basis — no long-term lock-ins. This isn’t just a business decision — it’s a philosophy born from Dave’s own experience of losing control, and his determination to make sure no author he works with goes through the same thing. Final Word Your book is more than a product — it’s part of your identity as a writer. Losing control over it can have long-term consequences for your career. By understanding your rights and refusing to give them away unnecessarily, you protect not only your current book, but every future opportunity it might bring. If you want to publish with confidence, Dave Palmer Consulting can guide you through the process — ensuring your story stays exactly where it belongs: in your hands.

When we think about the risks of scam publishing, money is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And yes, the financial side can be devastating — authors have lost thousands of pounds to companies that promised the world and delivered next to nothing. But the truth is, the damage goes far beyond your bank account. Scam publishing can drain your energy, steal your confidence, delay your dreams, and even change how you feel about writing altogether. I know this because it happened to me. My Experience: Paying the Price in More Ways Than One When I signed with my first hybrid publisher, I thought I was making an investment in my career. The package promised professional editing, a beautiful cover, and marketing that would “give my book the exposure it deserved.” It was expensive, but I told myself it would be worth it. What I didn’t realise at the time was that I wasn’t just handing over money — I was putting my trust, my time, and my creative vision in someone else’s hands. And when they failed to deliver, I didn’t just feel poorer. I felt deflated. The editing was rushed, the cover was generic, and the marketing was so vague it was almost meaningless. But worse than that, I’d lost months of momentum. All the excitement I’d felt about sharing my book with the world had been replaced by a sinking feeling that maybe it just wasn’t meant to happen. The Emotional Toll Money is replaceable. Confidence isn’t so easily restored. When you’ve poured yourself into a manuscript, it becomes part of you. To see it treated carelessly — or worse, used as a way to make someone else a profit — can be deeply discouraging. I’ve spoken to authors who’ve stopped writing altogether after a bad experience with a publisher. They question their talent, their instincts, and their place in the publishing world. That’s the real tragedy of scam publishing. It doesn’t just cost you financially; it can rob you of the joy that made you write in the first place. Time Lost, Opportunities Missed Then there’s the time you’ll never get back. Publishing, done properly, takes time — but with a scam publisher, that time often leads nowhere. You might spend months waiting for edits that never come, marketing that never materialises, or answers to questions that go ignored. Meanwhile, your book isn’t reaching readers, your momentum fades, and opportunities pass you by. If you decide to start over, you may have to redo everything — from editing to design — before your book can finally see the light of day. The Impact on Your Future Work A bad experience doesn’t just affect the book you’re working on now. It can also influence your next project, and the one after that. I’ve worked with authors who became so cautious after being scammed that they were afraid to work with anyone at all — even genuine professionals who could have helped them. It’s understandable, but it’s also limiting. Fear can make you second-guess every decision, slowing your progress and holding back your potential. Why This Drives My Work Today I built Dave Palmer Consulting because I didn’t want any other author to go through what I went through. I know what it’s like to feel let down, to lose not just money but time, trust, and enthusiasm. That’s why my approach is simple: ● Be transparent about what’s possible. ● Deliver the quality I’d expect for my own books. ● Keep authors in control every step of the way. When you work with me, your rights stay yours, your costs are clear, and your book is treated with the care it deserves. Final Thoughts Scam publishing is about more than money. It’s about the cost to your confidence, your time, and your creative spirit. Those things are harder to measure, but they matter far more in the long run. If you’ve had a bad experience, know that it doesn’t have to define your writing journey. You can recover. You can republish. You can move forward with the right support. And if you’re just starting out, take the time to research, ask questions, and choose partners who value your book as much as you do. That’s how you protect not just your finances, but your passion for writing itself.

When we think about the risks of scam publishing, money is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And yes, the financial side can be devastating — authors have lost thousands of pounds to companies that promised the world and delivered next to nothing. But the truth is, the damage goes far beyond your bank account. Scam publishing can drain your energy, steal your confidence, delay your dreams, and even change how you feel about writing altogether. I know this because it happened to me. My Experience: Paying the Price in More Ways Than One When I signed with my first hybrid publisher, I thought I was making an investment in my career. The package promised professional editing, a beautiful cover, and marketing that would “give my book the exposure it deserved.” It was expensive, but I told myself it would be worth it. What I didn’t realise at the time was that I wasn’t just handing over money — I was putting my trust, my time, and my creative vision in someone else’s hands. And when they failed to deliver, I didn’t just feel poorer. I felt deflated. The editing was rushed, the cover was generic, and the marketing was so vague it was almost meaningless. But worse than that, I’d lost months of momentum. All the excitement I’d felt about sharing my book with the world had been replaced by a sinking feeling that maybe it just wasn’t meant to happen. The Emotional Toll Money is replaceable. Confidence isn’t so easily restored. When you’ve poured yourself into a manuscript, it becomes part of you. To see it treated carelessly — or worse, used as a way to make someone else a profit — can be deeply discouraging. I’ve spoken to authors who’ve stopped writing altogether after a bad experience with a publisher. They question their talent, their instincts, and their place in the publishing world. That’s the real tragedy of scam publishing. It doesn’t just cost you financially; it can rob you of the joy that made you write in the first place. Time Lost, Opportunities Missed Then there’s the time you’ll never get back. Publishing, done properly, takes time — but with a scam publisher, that time often leads nowhere. You might spend months waiting for edits that never come, marketing that never materialises, or answers to questions that go ignored. Meanwhile, your book isn’t reaching readers, your momentum fades, and opportunities pass you by. If you decide to start over, you may have to redo everything — from editing to design — before your book can finally see the light of day. The Impact on Your Future Work A bad experience doesn’t just affect the book you’re working on now. It can also influence your next project, and the one after that. I’ve worked with authors who became so cautious after being scammed that they were afraid to work with anyone at all — even genuine professionals who could have helped them. It’s understandable, but it’s also limiting. Fear can make you second-guess every decision, slowing your progress and holding back your potential. Why This Drives My Work Today I built Dave Palmer Consulting because I didn’t want any other author to go through what I went through. I know what it’s like to feel let down, to lose not just money but time, trust, and enthusiasm. That’s why my approach is simple: ● Be transparent about what’s possible. ● Deliver the quality I’d expect for my own books. ● Keep authors in control every step of the way. When you work with me, your rights stay yours, your costs are clear, and your book is treated with the care it deserves. Final Thoughts Scam publishing is about more than money. It’s about the cost to your confidence, your time, and your creative spirit. Those things are harder to measure, but they matter far more in the long run. If you’ve had a bad experience, know that it doesn’t have to define your writing journey. You can recover. You can republish. You can move forward with the right support. And if you’re just starting out, take the time to research, ask questions, and choose partners who value your book as much as you do. That’s how you protect not just your finances, but your passion for writing itself.

If you’ve ever looked into publishing your book online, you’ve probably seen them — the polished websites, the slick brochures, the smiling “author success stories” splashed across a company’s homepage. On the surface, these publishers look like the answer to your dreams. But here’s the truth: in many cases, that gloss is nothing more than a sales tool, carefully designed to lure authors in before delivering far less than promised. I know, because I’ve been behind those glossy promises — not as the one making them, but as the one who believed them. Step One: The Illusion of Professionalism When I was preparing to publish my first book, I came across a hybrid publisher whose materials oozed professionalism. Their brochures were beautifully designed. Their website was full of phrases like “global reach”, “bestseller potential”, and “tailored marketing strategies”. It was convincing. In fact, it was meant to be convincing. What I didn’t realise then — but see all too clearly now — is that creating this aura of legitimacy is step one in the scam publisher’s playbook. They know new authors are nervous and want to feel safe. So, they look and sound like a big, established player in the industry, even if the reality is just a handful of salespeople working from a small office. Step Two: The Emotional Hook Once you make contact, the focus shifts to you and your book. Scam publishers will shower you with praise. They’ll tell you your manuscript is “exactly what the market is looking for” or that you have “a real bestseller on your hands”. This isn’t about honest feedback — it’s about getting you emotionally invested. Once you’re convinced they believe in you, you’re far more likely to hand over your money without question. In my case, I was told my book had “huge commercial potential” and that the only thing standing between me and success was their “expert publishing package”. It sounded exciting. It was also carefully rehearsed sales language. Step Three: The Big Sell Next comes the offer. Scam publishers often present it as a special opportunity, sometimes with an expiry date to create pressure. The packages are loaded with impressive-sounding services — editing, cover design, marketing, distribution — but very few specifics. They might talk about “media outreach” but not name the outlets. They’ll mention “bookstore placement” but gloss over the fact that this usually means making your book available to order, not physically placing it on shelves. When I asked for details, I got plenty of enthusiastic assurances but very little concrete information. That should have been my warning sign. Step Four: Delivery (or Lack of It) Once you’ve paid, the real face of the operation appears. The editing may be rushed and surface-level. The cover design might be generic. Marketing efforts could be minimal — a couple of social posts and a press release, if that. And because these companies know their contracts inside out, they’ve worded them to protect themselves, not you. Even if you’re unhappy with the work, your chances of getting a refund are slim to none. That’s exactly what happened to me. By the time I realised how far short of the promises they’d fallen, the money was gone, and my book’s release had been mishandled. The Common Tricks to Watch For From my own experience and the stories, I’ve heard from countless other authors, scam publishers often use the same tactics: ● Polished branding to look more legitimate than they are. ● Over-the-top praise to hook you emotionally. ● Vague service descriptions to hide how little they actually deliver. ● False urgency to push you into signing quickly. ● Carefully worded contracts that keep your money, no matter what happens. Pulling Back the Curtain Legitimate publishers don’t need to hide behind buzzwords or avoid specifics. They’ll tell you exactly what you’re getting, how it works, who will be doing the work, and what results you can realistically expect. At Dave Palmer Consulting, I make sure authors have that clarity from day one. If I say I’ll deliver something, you’ll know exactly what it is, when it’s happening, and how much it costs. There’s no gloss, no empty promises — just real, professional publishing support from someone who’s been where you are now. Final Thoughts The glossy brochures, slick websites, and friendly phone calls are all part of the performance. They’re designed to make you feel safe enough to sign without asking the hard questions. Don’t let the shine blind you. Look past the marketing, ask for specifics, and remember — in publishing, as in life, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you want to publish without the smoke and mirrors, I can help you build a transparent, professional path to seeing your book in print — one where you know exactly what’s behind the curtain.