Finishing your manuscript is a huge accomplishment. Congratulations! Now comes the next big step: getting it published. Whether you’re exploring traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing, it’s crucial to know the red flags in publishing that could cost you time, money, and ownership of your work.
Some publishing companies genuinely invest in your success. Others use polished websites and persuasive language to mask questionable practices. Vanity presses, in particular, can blur the lines by offering what seems like a dream deal, only to leave you with high costs, broken promises, and limited results. If something feels off, trust that instinct. This guide will help you recognize the warning signs and protect your work and your wallet.
What to Watch Out for Before Signing a Deal
They Accept Everything
If a publisher ignores your book’s quality or content, take it as a red flag. Reputable traditional and hybrid publishers are selective because they invest in the books they publish. If someone accepts everything, chances are they’re not investing in you—just collecting a check.
You’re Asked to Buy Hundreds of Copies
A request to purchase large quantities of your own book upfront is a classic upsell tactic. Legitimate publishers focus on selling books to readers, not to the author.
Costs Are Vague or Overinflated
Hybrid publishing involves fees, yes. But they should be clear, fair, and competitive. Some companies quote fees at two to three times the industry standard, often burying them in confusing packages.
Big Promises with No Proof
“We’ll make you a bestseller.” “You’re the next Colleen Hoover.” Yikes. Publishers can’t predict or guarantee your book’s success. Bold claims are usually sales tactics, not realistic projections.
Pressure to Sign Immediately
If someone is rushing you to sign “before this offer expires,” take a deep breath. Good publishers give you time to review everything. Pushy timelines often hide sketchy terms.
No Distribution Plan
Your book doesn’t just exist. It invites readers. If the publisher can’t explain how it will reach bookstores, libraries, or online retailers, what exactly are you paying for?
Rights and Royalties Are Murky
Shady contracts often gloss over important details like rights and royalties. You deserve to know exactly how and when you’ll get paid—and what rights you give up.
How to Protect Yourself
- Do a Background Check
Search the company’s name with words like “scam,” ”scam alerts,” “complaint,” or “lawsuit.” You might be surprised by what turns up. - Read the Contract (Every Word)
Confused? That’s normal. Ask a publishing lawyer or check resources like Writer Beware or the Alliance of Independent Authors. - Compare Pricing
Talk to freelance editors or designers. You’ll quickly get a sense of what industry-standard pricing looks like. - Ask About Distribution
For clarity, ask questions like: Where will my book be sold? And how do you help with visibility and sales? Will you list it with Ingram, Amazon, and indie stores? Clear answers show competence. Vague ones are another red flag. - Learn the Basics of Rights and Royalties
For example, who owns the rights to your book—you or the publisher? What’s the royalty split? Are there reversion clauses? If the answers aren’t clear, don’t sign.
Final Thought: Trust Your Gut Against Red Flags in Publishing
Of course, publishing is a business, but it should also be a partnership built on trust. Whether you’re going traditional, hybrid, or solo, the people you work with should care about your book as much as you do. If something feels off, ask questions. Investigate. Take your time in protecting your book.
Even so, walking away from a bad deal isn’t a failure. It’s a power move. Your book deserves better than empty promises.
Not sure which path fits you best? Check out our guide on choosing between self, traditional, and hybrid publishing.
Are you into graphic novels? Visit our guide to Publishing Graphic Novels for Beginners for more info.
