How to Shop for A Publishing Services Provider
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Choosing a publishing partner isn’t just about finding the right price — it’s about investing in the future of your book. You’ve poured your creativity, energy, and countless hours into your manuscript, and you deserve to have it in the hands of a team that will treat it with that same love and care.
In a marketplace filled with endless options — and unfortunately, some misleading information — how do you separate the trustworthy from the questionable? It all comes down to doing your research, thinking critically, and knowing where to look for honest insights.
Identifying Illegitimate Review Sources
Not all review sites are created equal. Some exist primarily to serve the interests of specific companies rather than authors. Unmoderated and unverified review sites can become echo chambers of bias and misinformation, making it tough for authors to get a clear picture of what a publishing option truly offers.
It’s an unfortunate reality that some sources claiming to compare publishing services impartially do anything but. Certain review platforms are funded or influenced by specific companies, promoting their services while unfairly discrediting others. These underhanded tactics often involve manipulating reviews or presenting biased “rankings” designed to sway authors in a particular direction. Because popular web search algorithms don’t tend to deprioritize outdated content, a negative review that’s gained traction — controversy tends to get clicks — can linger on for years.
Where to Find Legitimate Customer Feedback
To avoid falling into these traps, focus your research on recent, verified, and moderated sources that prioritize accuracy and transparency, such as:
Google Reviews — one of the largest, most utilized sites for reviews with real customer experiences from a large number of verified users as well as business responses clarifying issues and addressing complaints. A company that disables the ability for customers to leave Google Reviews is a red flag; they should be responding to the good ones and not so good ones with context.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) — a nonprofit that’s been around since 1912, known for its stringent standards dedicated to consumer rights and fairness in business transactions.
While finding trustworthy and reliable reviews can be tricky, these sources generally provide an accurate and balanced view of a company’s track record.
Know the Signs of a Reputable Publishing Provider
A reputable provider will be upfront, honest, and transparent, ensuring that you feel confident in your investment. While flashy marketing promises can be enticing, it’s important to look beyond surface-level claims and assess whether a company truly has the expertise and integrity to support your publishing journey.
Before committing to any publishing service, make sure they check off these critical boxes:
Editorial Quality Standards — A trustworthy provider will offer professional editing services that enhance your manuscript rather than simply running it through basic proofreading software. Look for access to experienced professionals that are chosen based on internationally recognized criteria for defining editorial proficiency (such as Editors Canada’s Professional Editorial Standards).
Consistency and Longevity — In an era where a website and business logo can be created in just a few clicks, authors should heavily consider their publishing provider’s longevity. Is your potential partner well established or a newer entrant? You need assurances your partner of choice will keep your book in circulation for the long haul. And if they are well established, are they coasting on their past successes or continuing to consistently generate recent 5-star experiences?
Ownership Rights — Your book is your intellectual property, and you should retain full rights to it. Some disreputable companies may include clauses in their contracts that limit your control over your work, so it’s crucial to read the fine print.
Clear Contracts — Avoid companies with vague promises, hidden fees, or pressure tactics. A legitimate publishing services provider will provide easy-to-understand agreements that outline responsibilities, expectations, and any costs associated with their services. Be wary of vague pricing structures or services that seem suspiciously low-cost.
Open and Communicative — Simply put, a reputable provider should be easy to get ahold of on the phone and via email. Repeatedly no-showing or failing to reply to your inquiries is often a red flag and sign of the quality of service to come.
Track Record of Success — Authors should look into a publishing provider’s verified reviews from third-party sources (Google, BBB), as these offer insights into their reputation. Additionally, reviewing the company’s own testimonials and the books they’ve published — including their quality and quantity — can help assess their expertise and whether they live up to the promises their services make.
These factors help distinguish professional publishing services from less reputable alternatives, ensuring that you’re making a smart, informed decision about your book’s future.
Vanity Publishing vs. Professional Publishing Services
Another one of the biggest traps new authors fall into is confusing vanity publishers with professional publishing services. While they may seem similar on the surface, their business models and author support systems are vastly different:
Vanity Publishing companies offer “publishing contracts” but require authors to pay the publisher to produce their book. This often involves hefty upfront fees, promising grand results while only delivering subpar services. They may claim to provide editing, design, and marketing, but their actual support is often minimal, and distribution options are limited. Authors often receive a smaller percentage of the profits, as the publisher takes a significant cut. Within their contract, the publisher may even stipulate retaining certain rights to your book. In some cases, authors may have limited control over the final product, including the cover design and pricing.
Professional Publishing Services focus on providing publishing services and expert guidance without overstepping into book rights and royalties. Authors should retain full creative and ownership control over their book, including direct say over the final product, cover design, and pricing. These services offer high-quality editorial, design, and marketing support to help authors meet industry standards and ensure their book’s success. Rather than taking a cut of their royalty or retaining ownership rights, professional publishing services operate on a service-based model, where authors pay for the guidance and expertise they need to publish their book successfully.
By understanding these distinctions, you can avoid costly mistakes and choose a publishing partner that truly prioritizes your book’s success.
Why FriesenPress Is a Proven and Trusted Publishing Partner
At FriesenPress, we combine industry expertise, personalized one-on-one support, and a commitment to author success to deliver high-quality books that stand out. Including all the benefits of a professional publishing services model, here’s why authors trust us to help turn their publishing dreams into reality:
Reviews and Testimonials — FriesenPress has helped thousands of authors bring their books to life and been rewarded with hundreds of 5-star Google reviews and a strong reputation within the publishing industry. Our commitment to transparency, quality, and author empowerment is reflected in countless success stories.
10,000 Titles and Counting — Managing everything from memoirs to novels, children’s books to photography books, we have guided more than 10,000 titles to publication since our founding in 2009. Our proven process and dedicated team make us a trusted choice for authors seeking both quality and integrity.
The Friesens Connection — As part of the 100+ year old, employee-owned, award-winning book manufacturer, Friesens Corporation, we offer authors the credibility and security of working with an established industry leader. Friesens’s scale and expertise provide access to premium printing options often unavailable in the self-publishing world — giving your book the professional polish it deserves.
Not all publishing services are created equal. In an industry filled with options, some less transparent than others, it’s vital to conduct your research with a critical eye. Avoid unverified review sites, seek out legitimate customer feedback, and look for a partner that prioritizes transparency, expertise, and your book’s success.
Choosing the right publishing services provider isn’t just about getting your book into print — it’s about giving it the best chance to thrive. With FriesenPress, you’ll find a partner committed to your vision, your goals, and your success as an author.
