How to Vet Hybrid Publishers
Thoughts on an epic decision that every author needs to make.
Hybrid publishing has exploded in recent years. There are plenty of solid outfits out there and more than a few charlatans. Brass tacks: There's no one right way to get your book out there, but some ways are much better than others.
So, how do you distinguish one hybrid publisher from another?
Starting Points
Its website and the experience of its staff should be your starting points. Does the publisher list its employees? Can you see their backgrounds on LinkedIn? If not, then consider it a red flag.
Previous titles are also worth examining. Look at their covers. Are they anodyne, or do they pop? If it's the latter, then go deeper. Do the books' interiors look professional? Download a few samples from Amazon and see how they're formatted. If you see a bevy of issues, then run.
If you see a bevy of issues, then run.
What about the publisher's blog? Has it gone all zombie, or does it frequently offer useful tips, tricks, and insights on publishing and writing matters?
Next up: testimonials. If you don't see any praise from named previous clients, think very carefully about why.
