I had a book published by a print-on-demand and-based vanity publisher who identifies themselves as a "traditional" publisher.” There were many complaints about the company that I ignored.
My dream was to publish a book and the company preyed on those hopes and dreams.
The publishing company cheated me out of rightful royalties that I was owed. My first royalty cheque from them wasn’t even enough to buy a bag of milk.
I have finally been released from my contract and all rights to my book have been returned to me. I’m one of the lucky ones, as many authors still waiting to be released from their contracts would give anything to be in my shoes.
I take full responsibility for my actions. I should have listened to those who warned me not to go down this road. But, I chose to ignore author’s warnings and publish my book with them anyway.
It was quite the blow to be hit with the reality that I too had fallen victim.
Many authors believed that their dreams were being fulfilled, only to have those dreams crushed by a dishonest publishing company that will publish anyone.
Though the company is to be blamed for misleading authors, I should have done my homework.
In the end, it is only I who can determine what I’ve lost. In this case, royalties owed to me, a year of time wasted and some of my dignity for being a sucker.
But, I've learned a lesson the hard way.
Each day brings us a new lesson in this circle of life and what doesn't kill us can only make us stronger.
I've learned that everyday I'm still learning.
Though I’ve fallen victim, I haven’t given up my dream. I’m continuing to write and I am now searching for another publisher for my book.
Rose DesRochers
Related Links: Making Books - Article by Paula Span from the Washington Post
Publish Anything: The Saga of a PublishAmerica Author.
The Associated Press Critics and supporters debate success of fast-rising PublishAmerica
NBC-TV (New York) Publishing On Demand Can Cause Problems
Aspiring Writers Trash PublishAmerica
Tags:Publisher, Publishing, Vanity Publishing, Pod Publishing
1 comment:
Stories like these scare me. Even if you were ripped off because you ignored the signs, there's still too many other ways to get caught out without any warning. As the saying goes, buyer beware.
Interesting read. Good luck with the publishing.
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