Top 10 Red Flags to Watch Out for When Choosing a Self-Publishing Company
Self-publishing is one of the most empowering paths an author can take—but not all publishing companies are created equal. Learn how to spot the warning signs and protect yourself from scams.
While some firms genuinely want to support indie authors, others are designed to take your money with little value in return.
Before signing any contract or paying upfront, make sure you're not walking into a self-publishing scam or working with a low-quality service provider. Here are the top 10 red flags to watch out for—and why Books Sphere is a name you can trust.
Vague or Hidden Pricing
⚠️Warning: If a company refuses to share clear pricing details on their website or offers generic "custom quotes" without specifics, proceed with caution.
The Problem: Hidden fees often show up later in the process for things like revisions, distribution, or marketing.
How Books Sphere: At Books Sphere, we offer upfront pricing with no surprise add-ons. What you see is what you get.
Pushy Sales Tactics
⚠️Warning: If you're being rushed into a decision or promised "limited-time offers" that feel more like pressure than help, that's a red flag.
The Problem: A legitimate publisher will give you time to review, compare, and decide.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere gives you all the space you need. We offer free consultations—no pressure, no obligations.
Guaranteed Bestseller Claims
⚠️Warning: No one—not even a traditional publisher—can guarantee your book will be a bestseller.
The Problem: If a company promises unrealistic results, they're not being honest.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere focuses on quality publishing and strategic marketing—not false hope.
No Editing or Poor Editing Services
⚠️Warning: Some firms claim to provide editing but deliver low-quality results—or skip the process altogether.
The Problem: Weak editing reflects badly on you and your book.
How Books Sphere: We take editing seriously, offering developmental, line, and copy editing by experienced professionals.
Ownership Confusion
⚠️Warning: If your contract mentions shared or retained rights by the publisher, stop and read the fine print.
The Problem: You should own 100% of your work.
How Books Sphere: At Books Sphere, you retain full rights to your book. Always.
Lack of Marketing Support
⚠️Warning: Publishing is just the beginning. A reliable self-publishing company should help you get your book seen.
The Problem: If they only print and publish without offering any promotional guidance, you're on your own.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere provides marketing plans, social media support, press releases, and high-visibility campaigns.
No Physical Address or Verification
⚠️Warning: If the company has no visible location, no verifiable registration, or just a P.O. box, be cautious.
The Problem: Scammers hide their identities. Legitimate businesses are transparent.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere LLC is registered, verified by the Better Business Bureau, Dun & Bradstreet, and listed on Google Maps with a physical address in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Upfront Payment for Thousands Without a Clear Breakdown
⚠️Warning: Be wary of companies demanding large sums upfront without explaining what you're paying for.
The Problem: This could be a way to lock you in before delivering subpar work.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere provides detailed, transparent pricing breakdowns. You'll know exactly what you're investing in before signing anything.
Little to No Online Presence or Bad Reviews
⚠️Warning: If you can't find reviews, testimonials, or an active social media presence, that's suspicious.
The Problem: A company without a visible track record might be hiding something—or might not exist long-term.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere has verified profiles on Trustpilot, SiteJabber, BBB, and active social media engagement. Our reviews speak for themselves.
Cookie-Cutter Packages with No Customization
⚠️Warning: Some firms push generic packages that don't suit your book's unique needs.
The Problem: Your book deserves a personalized approach, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
How Books Sphere: Books Sphere works with you to create a custom publishing plan based on your goals, genre, and budget.
Why Books Sphere Is a Name You Can Trust
We're not just telling you to avoid red flags—we're showing you what green flags look like.
We believe in transparency, author empowerment, and long-term relationships—not quick cash grabs.
Learn More About UsHow to Protect Yourself
- •Do your research: Look up reviews, check BBB ratings, and verify business registration
- •Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask for clarification on pricing, timelines, and deliverables
- •Read contracts carefully: Never sign without understanding every clause
- •Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is
- •Compare options: Get quotes from multiple companies before committing
Your Book Deserves Better
Don't let a bad publishing experience rob you of your dream. Work with a company that puts your success first.
Books Sphere LLC
Transparent. Trustworthy. Author-First Publishing.
2452 Patterson Rd, Unit 304
Grand Junction, CO 81505
📞 +1-888-390-0028
✉️ [email protected]
"Books Sphere gave me complete transparency from day one. No surprises, no pressure—just honest support every step of the way." — Verified Author
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