Carl V.
Caution Flag!
People who seek to self-publish a book are ideal targets for scam artists. They typically have a strong ego and are convinced the world really needs and wants to hear what they have to say. Pearson Publishers were quick to exploit this proclivity, expertly delivering just enough to thwart lawsuits but eventually leaving the author/victim with a tiny fraction of his or her expectations. If my experience was typical, this is what you can expect. They will review your manuscript and assure you it is pure genius that will sell well. They will promise that their offer of $800 covers everything and there will be no additional charges to put your book in the hands of eager readers. Your first clue of chicanery will be their insistence on wire transfer of money, no checks or money orders. That's common practice among swindlers, as a way to prevent you from getting your money back. Then comes the frustrations of getting their "edited" manuscript with formatting and editorial errors that middle school students should catch. Meanwhile, the sales opportunities are being grossly exaggerated and you are being urged to act quickly to take advantage of this incredible investment opportunity. Just send a few thousand dollars more to pay for printing the huge order allegedly ordered by one or more major retailers! None of this comes with documented proof, and they will of course be highly insulted if you ask for proof. Con artists are always nice people who gain your trust, but if you are gullible and believe their ego strokes you will soon find yourself on the sucker end of a literary snipe hunt, over #25,000 poorer and kicking yourself for ignoring the scam symptoms.