We’ve all heard the phrase, haven’t we?
"If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."
Of course we’ve all heard it. It’s something of a tired and worn-out maxim these days.
But be warned-in the world of publishing, especially for new or first-time writers—it remains as relevant and important as ever.
So if you’re a writer with a cherished manuscript or an idea you’ve finally had the courage to send out, and you get a response within days offering you a book deal…hold your horses.
Because here’s the truth:
Respectable, reputable publishers don’t hand out book contracts as easily as someone doing so for a fast-food joint.
And yet, some companies—often under the guise of being publishers—do exactly that.
They’ll tell you your idea is ‘Exactly what we’re looking for’.
Or that it has ‘Tremendous market potential.’
The flattery flows thick and fast, and before you know it, they’re offering you a contract.
They haven’t asked to see the full manuscript.
They haven’t queried the market. They haven’t even checked your platform, your audience, or your intentions.
All they’ve done is read your brief synopsis and pounced.
Why? Because for them, you’re the client. Not your book. Not the reader.
These companies operate under what’s often known as a vanity publishing model.
Which is very different to self-publishing. Very different indeed.
That doesn’t, incidentally, mean all vanity-type publishing deals are bad (some reputable companies do exist), but here’s the litmus test: are they asking you to contribute towards the publishing costs?
Are they requesting a sum of money in return for ‘Full publication services’ and ‘Expert marketing support’?
If so, stop. Breathe. And be very, very wary.
Because here’s what generally happens next.
They'll ask you to stump up several thousand pounds for things like ‘Editing, typesetting, cover design, and promotional campaigns.’.
They might even make you feel as though they’re doing you a favour—offering you a chance most writers don’t get. And if you question it? Well, suddenly there’s pressure.
‘This opportunity won’t be around for long.’
Of course not. There are dozens of other hopefuls lined up behind you, all ready to pay.
But let’s get one thing straight: you’re not paying for expert marketing. You’re paying for promises. And most of those promises will quietly dissolve once your name is on the dotted line.
Because here’s the dirty secret: many of these companies won’t market your book at all. They’ll list it on Amazon.
They might tweet about it…once.
They might send a press release to a local paper. But you won’t see your book in Waterstones.
It won’t be reviewed by national media.
It won’t be part of a proper campaign.
Why? Because they never intended it to be.
What they wanted was your money.
That’s not publishing. That’s exploitation.
A real publisher invests in a book because they believe in it—not because the author was willing to cover the costs. A proper publisher might take months to reply to your submission (annoying, yes, but a good sign). They might ask for rewrites. They’ll probably want to see the whole manuscript. They’ll assess your work for its literary merit, its marketability, and where it sits in the current publishing landscape.
They’ll offer you a contract based on what they’re willing to risk, not what you’re willing to pay.
So if you’re offered a publishing deal just days after submitting a synopsis, and it comes with a price tag—walk away. You’re not being offered a publishing opportunity. You’re being invited into a commercial transaction, where the only guaranteed profit is for the company taking your money.
Now, lets be honest. This is where some people are going to say, ‘Well wait a minute Ed. You offer a self-publishing service. What’s the difference between what your business does and these ‘vanity publishing’ offers?
It’s quite a big difference.
At Couzens-Lake Media, we believe self-publishing should be empowering, not exploitative.
When you publish with us, you stay in control — you own 100% of your rights, royalties, and creative vision. We guide you through a clear, professional process where everything is explained and agreed upfront, with no hidden fees, unnecessary packages, or royalty claims.
It’s your book, your work, and it stays that way.
We treat every project with the same care and quality you'd expect from a traditional publisher. From professional editing and proofreading to bookstore-standard cover and interior design, we make sure your book looks and feels every bit as good as anything you'd find on the shelves.
Our focus is always on quality and professionalism — no cutting corners, no ‘cookie-cutter’ templates, and no rushed jobs.
Unlike many hybrid and vanity publishers, we don't charge inflated fees for poor service or tie you into complicated contracts that strip away your rights. There are no false promises about instant sales success — just honest, practical advice and personal support at every stage.
We’re here to help you publish a book you can be proud of, and to make sure the entire experience is positive, professional, and built around your ambitions, not ours.
Choosing Couzens-Lake Media means working with people who genuinely care about your story, your success, and your experience as a writer. We’re fiercely protective of our reputation because it’s built on trust, transparency, and results — and because we believe authors deserve better.
But look. I know these hybrid offers can be tempting. That’s because they are designed to be exactly that. Crafted to play on your hopes, your ambitions, your love for your story.
But remember—you and your book deserve better.
You deserve time. You deserve honesty. You deserve a publisher who will fight for your work because they believe in it, not because you’re funding it.
And if you need help navigating those murky waters?
That’s what we’re here for.
We’ve been there.
We’ve seen it.
And we’re always happy to talk.
And my fee for a talk or a meeting? There isn’t one. It’s completely free and without any obligation on your part to take it any further.
So listen. If you’ve had an offer for your work don’t hand over your money before you’ve had a proper conversation.
With someone who’s on your side.
