March of the Writers Day 24 – Writer’s Beware

The indie author world is a fantastic place, filled with creativity, camaraderie, and limitless potential—but lurking in the shadows are those who prey on eager writers looking to share their work with the world. Vanity presses, shady marketing services, and too-good-to-be-true publishing deals are just some of the dangers indie authors face.

Vanity Presses: The Wolves in Publisher’s Clothing

A vanity press will promise to publish your book, but instead of paying you, you pay them—thousands of dollars—for “services” that often result in overpriced, low-quality books with zero marketing support. They thrive on preying on hopeful authors, offering “traditional publishing” contracts that are anything but. Real publishers don’t ask you to pay for your own publication. If they do? 🚩🚩🚩

Fake Marketing and Promo Services

Another big scam? Bogus book promotion services. If someone promises you thousands of reviews or instant bestseller status for a fee, be skeptical. Organic growth takes time—real readers, not bots, make a book successful.

The “We Love Your Manuscript” Trap

Got an email from a publisher who “randomly found” your book and wants to publish it? Be cautious. Real publishers have a submissions process, and they don’t hunt you down on social media out of nowhere. Always research, ask for reviews, and check Writer Beware & Absolute Write before signing anything.

✅ Red Flags to Watch For:

• You have to pay them instead of them paying you.

• They promise to make you a bestseller overnight.

• Their contract is vague, full of hidden fees, or demands lifetime rights to your work.

• They reach out to you first, without you submitting.

• No verifiable reviews or proof of previous work.

🚨 Writers, have you encountered scams or shady deals? Share your experiences so we can protect each other! Comment below, and join the conversation with me. Share your experiences, and links that will help writers and authors.