27/05/2026
There is A LOT of misinformation floating around in the publishing world - and if we’re honest, it drives us a little nuts. Too many authors are getting mixed advice, sent down rabbit holes, or worse … led up the garden path and ripped off.
So, let's fix that, shall we?
First up: we're tackling one of the most misunderstood topics in publishing … the dreaded Vanity Publishing myth. 👀
❌Vanity Publishing =
The author pays upfront for publishing services, often with little or no quality control, no selective submissions process, nor genuine distribution or marketing support. Work is done via AI or cheap overseas labour. There is often poor communication or unclear/non-existent contracts, and confusion for the author.
There can also be a pretty solid sales pitch to get authors in - promising the earth - but delivering very little. Books produced are often poor-quality. And, extra hidden fees can be involved along the way (often holding authors to ransom to complete parts of the process) 😬
✅Supported Self-Publishing =
The author hires a publishing service company to assist with editing, design, formatting, printing and distribution, while retaining ownership, rights and book sale profits. Companies have a submission and quality-control process, with a clear contract or service agreement. Work is done via local, Australian, highly-qualified and experienced specialists. Communication is always transparent - questions from authors get answered honestly and with clarity.
There is ZERO sales pressure and a proven track record of books that can be found on Amazon and other channels. All fees are clearly explained upfront and everything you expect is included and delivered 😊
💣TRUTH BOMB: Paying a publisher does not make them a 'vanity publisher' ... dodgy practices do. Supported self-publishing can be a great choice, just make sure you're engaging the right people so you don't get caught out 😁
