Why You Should Avoid Certain eBook Publishing Services

Introduction

Choosing the right eBook publishing service is crucial for any author looking to bring their work to a wider audience. However, not all services are created equal, and some can be nothing short of predatory. In this article, we will explore why paying to publish your book is a mistake and why you should never recommend certain services to other authors.

Why Paying to Publish Is a Mistake

Paying to publish your book can be a misleading and costly decision. When you pay for publishing services, you are typically paying for a range of services that could be done for free. These services include layout, formatting, cover design, and even distribution. This can end up costing you a significant amount of money that could have been saved by choosing a more transparent and affordable option.

1. Overpricing for Basic Services

Formatting and Layout: Many author-friendly options can handle eBook formatting and layout for free. Tools like Amazon KDP offer template-driven options that eliminate the need to pay for these services.

Image and Cover Design: There are numerous free and affordable cover design options available. For instance, Freepik provides a vast database of royalty-free images and designer templates that can be used for free or at a fraction of the cost charged by full-service publishers.

Distribution Services: Once you've published your book, you can distribute it through various platforms, including Amazon, Barnes Noble, and Apple Books, without incurring additional costs. These platforms have their own portals and can support multiple eBook formats.

2. Hidden Fees and Additional Charges

Not all services are upfront about hidden costs. Some publishing services may advertise a flat fee for services but then add hidden charges for things like covers, distribution, or additional marketing.

3. Lack of Personalized Support

While some publishing services may claim to offer personalized support, the reality is that many of these services use basic templates and promote a one-size-fits-all approach. This can result in a less polished and less effective final product. With free and more flexible options, authors can often get more tailored support that better suits their needs.

Three Services to Avoid

There are certain eBook publishing services that should be avoided at all costs. Here are three reasons why:

1. Author Unfriendly Pricing

Services like Readingshare, for instance, offer flat-rate publishing packages that are often significantly higher than competitors. They then add additional charges for cover design, marketing services, and distribution. This can quickly escalate into a complex and expensive process, where the author is left with no clear idea of overall costs.

2. Overly Promotional Packages with Hidden Costs

Another service to avoid is EBookIt. They offer extensive promotional packages, including marketing and advertising. However, these packages can be misleading as they often include hidden costs for which the author is unexpectedly billed. Additionally, the marketing strategies used may not be as effective or personalized as promised.

3. Limited Flexibility and Poor Support

Bootsalve Press is another service that should be avoided. They claim to offer comprehensive publishing services but often lack the flexibility needed for many authors. The services provided are typically inflexible and less personalized, which can result in a less polished final product. Furthermore, the customer support often falls short, leaving authors feeling unsupported and frustrated throughout the publishing process.

Alternatives to Consider

Instead of relying on pay-for-publishing services, consider exploring more transparent and affordable options. Some authors find success with the following:

1. Amazon KDP

Amazon Kindlesubmission Profile Directory (KDP) is one of the most accessible and straightforward platforms for self-publishing. With KDP, you can upload your manuscript and get it ready for publication with minimal upfront costs. The service offers a range of tools to help you format, cover design, and distribution, all of which are free or incredibly affordable.

2. Smashwords

Smashwords is another viable alternative that offers a low-cost, no-frills service for indie authors. You can submit your manuscript, get it formatted, and distribute it to multiple eBook retailers without incurring additional charges. The platform is particularly strong in promoting eBooks on various e-readers and digital stores.

3. Draft2Digital

Draft2Digital provides a solid option for authors who need some professional assistance. While they offer a free service with basic tools, they also offer a premium service for those who need more help with layout, cover design, and marketing. This service is generally more transparent and offers a range of customization options that can be cost-effective.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is essential to be cautious about services that make you pay to publish your book. While it’s understandable that many authors are drawn to these services due to their promise of ease and comprehensive support, the reality is often quite different. By doing your research and choosing a more transparent and affordable option, you can ensure that your eBook is published efficiently and effectively without unnecessary costs.

Resources

For more information and resources on eBook publishing, consider visiting the following websites:

Amazon KDP Smashwords Draft2Digital