Reviews

Review Details

• Review fromPaul F

  Date: 04/20/2025

  4 stars
  I have used Outskirts Press to publish my three leadership books. All activities have gone well. The contacts are all very professional and personable. There has been a regular flow of communication to all questions and concerns. The book covers were designed by my artist based on the Outskirts formats. The only two issues I had with this third book are as follows.
  1. Making corrections to the content required one to follow a very limiting
  approach and format. Changes could not be done via an email
  communication.
  2. It seemed to take longer to assemble this third book. Yet not critical.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 04/24/2025

  Thank you, Mr. ****, for your positive review and feedback.
  Most authors prefer entering their edits via our online system within their
  Author Center. However, when you publish your next book with us simply, share
  that you would like to submit your edits via a Word document and we’ll get you
  taken care of. You are correct, that your 3rd book did take longer to publish
  than your 2nd book—in large part due to the number of proofs it took to get
  your print ready cover file approved to our specifications, so we’re sure that
  won’t happen to you again.  We look forward to working with you on your
  next book and wish you great success with the 3 you’ve already published.
  

• Review fromG. J.

  Date: 01/02/2025

  1 star
  A total lack of transparency and communicativeness and the most useless, brain-dead nonentities working in the so-called support staff an enormous waste of time and money. Countless ignored emails as well as incredible expenses that werent discussed beforehand.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 01/09/2025

  We are sorry that Mr. ******** is unhappy with his publishing experience and only telling us about his dissatisfaction nowthree years after publication.  We do our best to discuss any potential expenses that might be part of the self-publishing journey with our authors prior to preparing their book for publication and worldwide distribution.  And, our highly-experienced staff answers communication in a timely manner.  Since Mr. ******** doesnt mention anything specifically, we are unable to address the exact cause of his dissatisfaction.  But, after terminating his published book twice in the last three years, we can only assume Mr. ********s concerns lie with the sales performance of his book.  Part of the self-publishing journey is book marketing. Outskirts Press offers advice and services to assist authors in marketing their book; however, responsibility for this task falls upon the authors shoulders.  We understand that Mr. ******** indicated last year that he does not have the resources to market his book; however, there are many free marketing tactics and opportunities listed in our Marketing COACH Dashboard which Mr. ******** also chose not to pursue.  If Mr. ******** would like to review his marketing plan and adjust his strategies to produce better results using these free tactics/opportunities, we would be happy to reactivate his book for distribution.

  G. J.

  Date: 01/10/2025

  As I told a member of the support staff recently, my primary issue has nothing to do with a lack of sales or marketing opportunities. No one at the company told me that I would have to pay a yearly fee just to keep my book in distribution. This a fact that you cant possibly dispute. I thought that this was a straightforward transaction and a one time purchase, and just recently I was told that theres no way for me to keep my book in distribution, even if I were to remove it from the platforms that I mentioned. Apparently theres a fee for managing files even if you just want your book to stay in print. Lets compare this to BookBabys policy: the most standard package (for about $1,000) doesnt come with a subscription fee or a distribution fee of any sort. Im not talking about just keeping the book in print, being able to receive physical copies of it the book stays on pretty much all the online platforms that you offer. Dont you think that you should at the very least tell your potential customers that if something were to happen to them (or if they cant pay this annual fee for any reason at all), their book will completely go out of print within a few weeks or a few months at most? You say that this point was included somewhere in my publishing contract. But I wonder how many people would actually take the time to read through this kind of contract when theyre under the impression that theyre making a one time purchase, since this is clearly the standard policy of other companies? Who could possibly think that after paying over $2000 or $3000 to have a book published, a publishing company will try to milk him for some ridiculous some of money every year?
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 01/13/2025

  We are sorry that Mr. ******** admittedly neglected to review the terms and conditions of his Publishing Agreement with us prior to agreeing to its content. The annual distribution fee is clearly outlined in Section IV, # ** (excerpted below). This fee is assessed by ****** (our book distribution partner and the worlds largest book distributor)to compensate them for the ongoing distribution of Mr. ********s book and also covers the ongoing tracking of book sales and payment of royalties.  It is unreasonable to assume that something which has an ongoing commitment by multiple companies would not have a fee to compensate those companies for their ongoing work.  Mr. ******** paid these fees in 2022, 2023 & 2024; so,clearly, he felt there was value in maintaining the availability of his book in the marketplace.  Mr. ******** is correct that BookBaby doesnt have a yearly distribution fee; however, they do have a $399 set up fee and they do require a minimum purchase of ************************************************************************************************************************************* other ways.
  
  IV. AUTHOR WARRANTIES &RESPONSIBILITIES
  **.  Each ******* following publication, Author agrees to pay an Annual Distribution Subscription Fee in the amount of $30 for each print format of Title so Title can continue to receive digital distribution and availability through all the sales channels included with the Publishing Package  

  G. J.

  Date: 01/15/2025

  Thank you for the prompt response. So you do admit that nobody at the company told me about this fee before I made my purchase, right? Judging by my correspondence with everyone at the company, I was clearly under the impression that this was a one time purchase. Also, youre completely changing the subject. I was talking about the ability to keep my book in print. And theres no inherent value in having your book available on these platforms through your company when another company does the same for free after you make pretty much the same exact purchase that I made here, isnt that right? And are you saying that you dont have a set up fee of any kind?
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 01/23/2025

  No, Mr.Jorjadze we dont have a set-up fee.  The publishing package is purchased to professionally prepare your book for publication and put it into distribution with the worlds largest book distributor.  The other company isnt distributing your book for free; you paid them for the distribution up front (and in addition to your publishing package)so with them youve already paid the $399 fee even if you dont want your book in print anymore (no refunds on that fee and no way to pro-rate it).  As for you being under the impression that our service was a one-time purchase, Ill reiterate that it is unreasonable to assume that something which has an ongoing commitment by multiple companies would not have a fee to compensate those companies for their ongoing work.  In any event,you have elected to terminate the book you published with Outskirts Press and;therefore, will have no further fees assessed, nor did you pay for something you are no longer receiving. We wish you the best in your publishing endeavors

  G. J.

  Date: 01/24/2025

  If this is indeed the case, then why wasnt I told about this during my correspondence with your agents? You say its unreasonable to make the kind of assumption that I made? Seriously? Do you even read the reviews here? After multiple people have complained about this same exact issue, you blatantly continue with your deception like a bunch of con artists in a call center. You intentionally deceive your customers into believing that their book will stay in publication in one form or another after they purchase one of your packages, and then you say that its their fault for not reading some online document, which one of their relatives couldve easily signed instead of them, and which you seem to regard as a mere formality. Also, I have no idea where you get your information from, but the company that I mentioned doesnt require a minimum purchase of 25 books. Nor did I terminate my book twice in the last three years, as you said in your previous response. I terminated it once just a few weeks ago.The point I was trying to make with the example of that company is that your book stays in print through all the same major platforms that you offer after one straightforward transaction, no matter what happens to you, whereas you dont inform your potential clients that everything hinges on an annual distribution fee, which will annul all your efforts if youre unable to pay it for any reason at all. Literally any reason, including coma or death. Instead, you intentionally deceive them into thinking that this isnt the case from the very beginning.

• Review fromJoAnne S

  Date: 11/05/2024

  1 star
  This review isn't written lightly, or without anticipation of potential continuing issues with the company as a result. Repeated emails have gone unanswered, so here we are. Initially, I was enthusiastic about this partnership. That quickly faded as issues cropped up at every turn. My author *** changed mid-project to one who did not communicate as well and not in a timely manner. An incorrect version of my book was published and available online before I could even order my author copies. I did not approve the first version published. They "graciously" agreed to print the correct version at no charge, but wouldn't send any correct author copies. The free bookmark incentive awarded me 500 free bookmarks with the ** code to someone else's book. I also spent $250 on a marketing plan/press release. The paperwork and email ensures that the info would be sent to 100K email addresses, but 90 days in, there are only TWO and they won't send me the "top ten" list of who the emails went to. Three emails regarding the issue over 8 weeks have gone ignored.I understand that this type of publishing is for those that just want their book out into the world, but this was underwritten by a museum, and with local community funds as a historic project, and several museums (Smithsonian AA, for one) requested copies. How embarrassing that they now hold incorrect copies. Save this method for publishing your hobby writing. Also, don't expect rapid response.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 11/07/2024

  We would like to apologize to Ms. ******** There were internal miss-communications concerning her incorrect 10 Free Author Copies.  ***** *******, our Director of Production, will be reaching out to Ms. ******* to confirm where she would like the 10 replacement books shipped. Ms. ******* is also correct that her initial bookmarks were incorrect;however, they were immediately corrected, reprinted and shipped to her. Aside from the initial 10 incorrect copies, all books that have been printed are the correct version that Ms. ******* approved on 7/16/2024.
  
  In regards to Ms. ******** custom press release, it was distributed to our newswire service with over ******* media contacts; however,the newswire service does not have the capability to provide her requested top ten list and Outskirts Press has no control over the response any author receives from a distributed press release.  However, we want Ms. ******* to feel satisfied on all levels, so we will be placing a credit for the purchase price of the custom press release service into her shopping cart; and,of course, she will still be able to use her professional written release however she likes. 

• Review fromRichard L

  Date: 07/02/2024

  5 stars
  I have used Outskirts for over 5 years and 5 books, plus post pub revisions. Never had a problem or issue. The team assigned to me was professional, friendly, responsive and effective. I used the ultimate package and custom cover options on all books. I will use Outskirts again.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 07/05/2024

  Thank you ************** for taking the time to share your positive publishing experience. We will look forward to working with you on your next publication.

• Review fromJohn K

  Date: 04/08/2024

  2 stars
  My author representative was responsive and kept me informed about the progress of my book. However, once my book was published I ordered 40 copies and was anticipating my one free author's copy. The delay in receiving these books has been excruciating. For example, I ordered copies through amazon.com for my children in ***** ********* ******** *** ********* and they have all received their copies, yet I am still waiting for Outskirts Press to deliver my copies. I do not understand the delay. Very disappointing.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 04/10/2024

  We are delighted to hear that ************** was pleased with his Author Representative. Thank you, **************, for your loyalty. We look forward to working with you on your 5th publication.
  
  Our Book Oder screens clearly state that the printing timeline for paperbacks is 7 9 business days with the delivery timeline in addition to the printing timeline.  ************** ordered his 1 free copy and his 40 additional copies on Friday 3/29/2024. His 40 copies were delivered on Tuesday 4/9/2024 and his 1 free copy will be delivering on Wednesday 4/10/2024.The printing and delivery timeline together was actually less than the stated 7 9 business days for printing.  A review of Amazons site indicated that a book purchased on 4/9/24 would be delivered between 4/17 and 4/19 which is the same timeline as it took ************** to receive the books he ordered from Outskirts Press directly.

• Review fromPaul G

  Date: 03/24/2024

  5 stars
  I have published two books through Outskirts Press, and I am very pleased with the entire process. The people at the company work with you and guide you through every step of the process. Both my books turned out better than I thought they would. I am about to submit my third book with them. The options they have for your book are totally up to the individual and that way you only pay for what you want. I recommend Outskirts Press to anyone that is looking to self-publish their book.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 03/27/2024

  Thank you **** for taking the time to submit your 5 - star review of our services. We cherish our loyal authors and look forward to working with you again.

• Review fromKevin S

  Date: 10/31/2023

  5 stars
  Great people dedicated to excellence. I used the expedited service and received my published book even sooner than expected. The design of both cover, front and back, were exceptional. The cover stands out among other books. The design of the interior pages; especially the photos looked great. The cover alone helped pre-sale my book better than expected. Overall, Outskirts rates number one in printing. From the publishing Consultant to author ******, everybody did an excellent job.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 11/03/2023

  Hi *****,

  Thank you for your review. All of us at Outskirts Press are delighted that you are pleased. Congratulations on your publication!
  

• Review fromJerry W

  Date: 10/27/2023

  5 stars
  I just published my fourth book with Outskirts Press. Yes, I spent considerable money in the process, but I'm aware that producing a book is expensive. I feel that my money was well spent. The staff at Outskirts press is professional. They are helpful. They are available to assist me when I need help, which is often. **** was my contact person at Outskirts. I don't know how many other authors she was assisting, but she always had time for me. Overall, I think Outskirts provides a service to fledgling authors.
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 11/02/2023

  Thank you ***** for taking the time to submit your 5 star review. We appreciate your loyalty and look forward to publishing your 5th title.

• Review fromEric B

  Date: 09/28/2023

  4 stars
  Outskirts Press is astounding when it comes to publishing. I have published four of my five books with Outskirts Press, and have been very pleased every time! The custom covers are works of art, the communication with the major players throughout the publishing process is clear and concise, and the final product of the published book is top notch!Truthfully the only reason I give Outskirts Press 4 stars instead of 5 is because I wouldn't exactly give them an A when it comes to the marketing of the book, which is mostly the author's responsibility. Nevertheless, Outskirts Press does provide a very good website for each individual book -- and links to the author's other books -- and well above average copy editing. (I'm telling you, if you are not taking advantage of Outskirts Press's copy editing services, your are just wrong!)And let me not forget to mention, that Outskirts Press has a plethora of resources available for ALL stages of your book, from the $35 first submission to the marketing of the final fully published product. Outskirts Press has been impressing me with their services to authors since 2013...and I keep coming back because I have truly found none other who can serve an author better!
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 09/29/2023

  Thank you **** for your thoughtful, complementary review. We appreciate your loyalty and look forward to your next publication in your series.

• Review fromANDREW C

  Date: 03/27/2023

  5 stars
  OUTSKIRTS PRESS is absolutely the best in the independent publishing business! Number One!!!Their highly skilled staff will make a book be the very best it can be. From front and back cover designs to interior formatting. None better. After publishing seven (7) books with them, I would not go anywhere else!
  

  Outskirts Press, Inc.

  Date: 03/29/2023

  Thank you **************** for your awesome review. We value and appreciate your continued business and we look forward to working with you on your next publication.