Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/15/2023

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  In February of 2022, I hired Author Reputation Press (***********************************************, phone **************) to promote my book in **************************** I entered into a contract, whereby it was agreed that the fee for this promotion would be $3,200.00. I would make a total of 7 payments and conclude payment in August of 2022. However, there was a glitch in a copy of the book, and due to the printing error, it was agreed that I would resume payment once the error was corrected. The error did not get corrected until October 2022. It was then that I made final payment as they had explained that final payment is required before they would follow through on advertising my book in **************************** Once final payment was made, I could never get a date for when my book would be promoted in Publisher's Weekly. To make a long story short, once they were paid in full, they became hard to reach, phone calls and emails not returned until finally I could not reach them at all. They stopped responding to my emails and phone messages. To date, they have simply vanished and I am out of the fee of $3,200.00. There is no other dispute that I am aware of because the entire time that I was making payments, there were no issues at all to my knowledge. Upon reaching out to **************************, the Attorney General and the ************************* they all advised that there was nothing they could do since Author Reputation Press refused to respond. They recommended that I contacted the Better Business Bureau, thus I am now contacting this organization. So I am reaching out to see if you can intervene such that they will honor the contract as we agreed or provide a refund. I also want to share my experience so that other up and coming authors can steer clear of bad business practices from this business.

  Business Response

  Date: 08/11/2023

  Dear *************************************************,
  
  Author Reputation Press (ARP) acknowledges and honors BBB complaint No. ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern.
  
  We apologize for the inconvenience this matter has caused the involved parties. May the content of this response resolve and provide clarity regarding the laid-out concern. 
  
  The Author purchased a package of publishing and marketing services. The authors book, Childhood and Blueberry Muffins, was published on June 9, 2022. The following are the links where the book can be purchased:
  
  - Amazon: *****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
  - ****** & *****: ****************************************************************************************************************
  - ARP: ***************************************************************************
  - ******** **********************************************************************************************************
  
  The publisher/marketer (ARP) made a blog post as part of marketing efforts for the release of the book (Book Live). Please open this link: ******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************.
  
  *****************************, a supervisor, called the Author to address and resolve the Authors concern. It was then discovered that this complaint was the result of a misunderstanding. The Author was not aware that the package included publishing procedures, which made the process quite long. Also, the Author was paying the payment through an installment payment system that needed to be fully paid to complete the marketing service, which is part of the package.
  
  The payment for the package was cleared late last year (as mentioned by the Author in the complaint). The book was published in the second quarter of last year, even before it was fully paid for.
  
  Furthermore, the ************************** Ad was not fulfilled yet; aside from the fact that the balance was only cleared late last year, the books genre must be considered in the suitable theme of the ad and/or season to advertise certain genres as part of the marketing strategy.
  
  As per the result of the conversation between the Author and the Supervisor, the misunderstanding has been addressed. And clarity is served. Rest assured that for this months issue, the Authors book will be included. The August issue will be released on August 28.
  
  We appreciate your cooperation with ARP. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Please let us know if you have any additional questions, concerns, or comments, or if we may be of assistance at any point in the future.
  
  It is a great honor and privilege to have worked with authors like you who honor dedication and cooperation.
  
  Kind regards,

  Customer Answer

  Date: 08/14/2023

  [A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response.  If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]
  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does satisfy my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint #********. I understand that by choosing to accept the business response that my complaint will be closed as resolved. 
  
  Regards,
  
  *********************************

• Initial Complaint

  Date:07/07/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  6-14-2023 *********************** from Author Reputation Press called about a marketing/Vanity Press proposition. He charged me initial charge $330 plus additional charges based on a contract. I did not send a contract with my signature. The charge went on my **** of ************ card. He claimed the business 20 in business. I became suspicious and checked your site for information nd discovered it was only for 4 years. Your site stated it was a scam/fraud. I cancelled my card with the bank but the $330 was already spent. *********************** called yesterday and claimed the money had been sent to CBS Radio for an interview. He would not return my money to my credit card or refund it to me.

  Business Response

  Date: 07/17/2023

  Dear ***********************************,
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors BBB complaint No. ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern.
  
  We apologize for the inconvenience this matter has caused the involved parties. May this response provide clarification regarding the matter.
  
  We respect and honor your decision that you do not want to continue with the radio interview. As of this writing, the refund for the initial payment amounting to $330.00 the Author requested cannot be processed, taking into account the fact that the Author filed a chargeback on July 11, 2023.
  
  The chargeback process is hereby acknowledged. Author Reputation Press will wait for the result (the decision of the bank) and follow the standard operating procedure in the context of the matter.
  
  We appreciate your cooperation with ARP. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Please let us know if you have any additional questions, concerns, or comments, or if we may be of assistance at any point in the future.  
  
  Kind regards,

• Initial Complaint

  Date:06/12/2023

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On March 7, 2023 I entered into an agreement with Author Reputation Press (ARP) for the production, marketing, and distribution o f my book, Man of the House, A Memoir, for a cost not to exceed $20,000.00. I paid them through two of my credit cards during the months of March and April 2023. Then, without my knowledge and consent they rapidly deducted more than an additional $39,000.00 from those two credit cards that I used to pay them the $20,000.00.Their excessive deductions from my credit cards led to over-the-limit charges against my credit card and a steep deduction against my national credit score from about 780 to about 626. I wrote to ARP and asked them to stop deducting money from my credit cards on 6/3/2023 and that same day they deducted thousands more dollars from my credit card. I immediately cancelled those two credit cards to prevent them from deducting more money from my credit cards. I also spoke to *********************** of ARP about this grave issue and he promised to refund me $6,500.00. I wrote and told him and others responsible for those excessive charges against my credit cards that I wanted a refund of all money above $20,000.00 to be refunded to me through checks sent directly to my home address since those credit cards they used against me were now closed out.

  Business Response

  Date: 06/23/2023

  Please see the attached file. Thank you. 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/27/2023

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  April 2022. I signed contract with Author Reputation Press for them to represent my novel at July, 2022 Los Angeles Book Festival for $1000. The Festival was cancelled in **. ARPwanted to use my $1000 for a ***** or foreign book festival to represent my novel. I did not authorize, I told them to return my $1000.in summer, 2022. *** also has $2000 of mine I never signed a contract for. *** said the funds will be part of a $6000 fee from my representation at the ***** Book Festival in Nov., '2022. I said I will not send more money. Return the $2000 I never signed a contract for them to keep my funds.*** still has not returned my $3000 despite my contact, ***********************, telling me he's "on it."

  Business Response

  Date: 06/08/2023

  Dear *************************,
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors BBB complaint No. ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern.
  
  We apologize for the inconvenience this matter has caused the involved parties.May this response and manifested resolution(s) resolve the concern.
  
  The amount of $2,000.00 has been refunded. The ****************** sent a refund confirmation email and attached the necessary files (the refund receipt, a scanned copy of the check, and the refund letter). Please see attachment 1.
  
  The $1000.00 cannot be refunded because the said amount was used to pay for the LA Times Festival of Books 2023 (Book Gallery). The book, "Dings," was among the books displayed by Author Reputation Press during the Los ************* Festival of Books (LATFOB) 2023 at the ********************************* on April ****, 2023. Please see Attachment 2 for the links and photos.
  
  The publisher/marketer (ARP) made a blog post as part of marketing efforts for the said LA Times event. Please open this link: ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************.
  
  We appreciate your cooperation with ARP. We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Please let us know if you have any additional questions,concerns, or comments, or if we may be of assistance at any point in the future.
  
  It is a great honor and privilege to have worked with authors like you who honor dedication and cooperation.
  
  Kind regards,

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/22/2023

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  My book "Colorful Birthday" was supposed to be advertised in the ***************** issue in November 2022. I reached out to "Author Reputation Press" a number of times and they keep telling me I have to wait. They've indicated that I'm on the waiting list, but fail to provide proof.I would just like a refund. I've made full payment in July 2022 in the amount of $5499.00 U.S dollars ($7262.50 ******** dollars)

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/13/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Incomplete and vague royalty reports. Misrepresentation of services and qualifications of royalties. Excessive shipping charges. No response to calls or emails with concerns. **************** and later not delivering due to costs.

  Business Response

  Date: 04/19/2023

  Dear *********************************,
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors BBB complaint No. ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern and for providing the necessary information so we can address it accordingly.
  We apologize for the inconvenience this concern has brought to the involved parties. May this response and the action(s) that have been taken address the concern.
  
  The concern raised by the ********************** has been reported and discussed with the departments involved and the management. After the deliberation, data has been collected, and the succeeding paragraphs deliver explanations and information that *** provide clarity regarding the points mentioned by the **********************.
  
  Regarding the point about royalties, the royalty department has been informing the ********************** about the updates. All **********************s can monitor and check anytime by logging in using their login credentials. For your perusal, please review attachment 1.Since the partnership between the ********************** and the publisher started,transparency has been manifested and honored.
  
  The ********************** mentioned, to wit, "excessive shipping charges". This point is stipulated and clarified even in the contract signed by the ********************** and discussed by the **********************s book fulfillment officer during the process of publication of the **********************s book. As stipulated therein, "Author Reputation Press publishing packages include the cost of the complimentary books and printed materials, but you're responsible to pay the cost of shipping and handling". 
  
  Attachment 1 appears to be (also) an explanation of what the ********************** mentioned about "no response to calls or emails with concerns." The royalty department, book fulfillment ******** ********************** advisor (***********************), and production manager (*************************) have exchanged emails and/or calls with the **********************.
  
  Lastly,the ********************** purchased a publishing package to get his book published. Author Reputation Press, as the publisher, completed the publication. The following are a few of the links to where the book can be purchased:
  
  **************************************************************************
  ***************************************************************************************************
  *************************************
  **************************************************************
  ******************************************************************************
  ******************************************************
  
  It is a great honor and privilege to assist and serve **********************s like you. Authors who honor dedication and cooperation. As the publisher, we are grateful to be part of the **********************s journey as a published **********************. Thank you.
  
  Kind regards,
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/10/2023

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This company took my money without my permission, because they had my card information on a previous transaction and withdrew money which sent my account into the negative of $-1712. I wrote emails to the publishing agent, finance department and everyone involved only to be told I cant get my money back until **** business days. This transaction took place 2/28/23. I have yet to receive my money back. Today I spoke to *********************** the agent I was dealing with from the start and he told me if they give me back my money, for a deal I never agreed to. They declare they will stop promoting and marketing my book. From the moment I signed the first contract that is all they did try to upsell another project after another. The website, which I fell for, then a movie deal I didnt fall for that one. Another going to LA for book signing all costing thousands of dollars. I thought this Author Spotlight Production seem like it was a good deal but I never gave my final approval. They went ahead and hit my card and put me in the negative. I insisted I want my money back so now they are going to stop promoting my book and marketing it. Because they said they already invested more than they should in my book. I didnt break any agreements. I just refused to be suckered by them again and now they refuse to give me back my money.

  Business Response

  Date: 03/23/2023

  Dear ********************************************
  
  
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors BBB complaint No. ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern and for providing the necessary information so we could address it accordingly.
  
  We apologize for the inconvenience this concern has brought to the involved parties. May this response and the action(s) taken resolve the concern.
  
  The concern raised by the author has been reported and discussed with the departments involved and the management. After the deliberation, a decision was made, and the reported representative, Mr. ************************ received the appropriate sanction(s).
  
  Author Reputation Press does not tolerate any unprofessional and inappropriate action committed by the employees. In accordance with the rules of the company, a sincere apology is to be offered to the author. Moreover, the company will make sure that this concern will not happen again. Hence, a revisiting of the directives that honor excellence and professionalism is considered, which fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility among the members of the company.
  
  Author Reputation Press regrets what the author experienced, but reckoning this in a different light, this challenge will help the company learn and improve more in this aspect. Still, the publisher is thankful to the author for allowing us to correct and learn from this.
  
  To honor clarity, what Mr. *********************** mentioned, to wit, "will stop promoting and marketing my book...", is not true. Hence, the supervisor of ********************, ****************************** and the publishing and marketing manager, Mr. ************************** gave the author calls to formally apologize and clarify that the refund has been processed. There is a procedure for processing the refund that requires a standard number of days for the amount to be reflected on the authors account. (For perusal, kindly review the attachments:1) Refund Confirmation Email and 2) Refund Receipt.)
  
  No matter what the decision of the author is, it is to be acknowledged and honored by the publisher. The authors understanding and patience in dealing with the matter are highly appreciated. 
  
  Nevertheless,it is a great honor and privilege to assist authors like you. Authors who honor dedication and cooperation.
  
  
  Kind regards,

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/23/2023

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  see attachment

  Business Response

  Date: 03/10/2023

  Dear **************************
  
  
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors BBB complaint # ********. Thank you for letting us know about your concern and for providing the necessary information so we can address it accordingly.
  
  We apologize for the inconvenience this concern has brought to the involved parties. Now, we are to discuss and resolve the matter by taking the appropriate and reasonable course of action.
  
  In order to see the point of the matter in a bigger picture, it is crucial to take into account that the points discussed herein are for the main issue that the book of the author is not yet published.
  
  The author mentioned that he agreed and paid for the publication of his book (thats correct) and sent the required materials, to wit, "I sent to your company all the documentation, pictures, and manuscript they requested..."; however, as the book fulfillment ******** ********************************worked on the manuscript, she noticed that the files sent are lacking certain parts that are needed to be included in the books interior layout. Author Reputation Press (ARP) initiated and intended to help the author; thus, we bought an eBook copy ($30.00) of the authors book from his previous publisher (******** Publishing).
  
  ******** Publishing provided a copy with no content, just the book cover, which *** had to address. *** called and sent a request to ******** Publishing, informing them about the issue. We received no response from them. The assigned book fulfillment officer tried to look for other resolutions and addressed the problem without informing the author yet to not complicate the issue while keeping in touch with ******** Publishing. However, time passed and things went down, and we still received no response. Thus, we had to resort to asking the author to send an actual copy of the book. The course of the matter led to the author's mentioning that he had to send an actual copy of the book.
  
  Now,considering the aforementioned points, the progress of the publication of the authors book has been subjected to a number of factors, and the timeline may be affected by various factors beyond the publisher's control. Specifically, in this situation, there is the involvement of a third party, which played a significant role in the progress of the publication.
  
  For clarification, when the author said, to wit, "I kept on calling,emailing...," your calls and emails were not returned because ************************* left the company a couple of weeks after discussing things with the author. We apologize for that and humble ourselves as the publisher. After all, he was part of Author Reputation Press.
  
  Another point the author raised, to wit, "we will send you papers to sign", the author misinterpreted this ******* was not meant to let him "start all over again". Instead, the papers (forms) are for getting the very context of the authors request to check on the status of the progress of the publication, given that **************** is no longer working with us. Hence,concerns that are within his scope of responsibilities were not addressed. The papers are necessary to formally document and identify the status of the request and take appropriate and necessary actions as a resolution. 
  
  The author is correct; the papers were not sent, but the book fulfillment ******** ************** was informed about the concern. ************** called the author and explained what happened. As the author stated, to wit, "I told her that I was going out of the country for a couple of weeks...", considering the discussion between the author and *************** matters seemed settled. ************* worked on the authors book to finish and publish it.
  
  On January 31, 2023, ************** sent an email to the author informing him regarding his books registrations. Upon checking the records, according to her notes, she received no response. We cannot get a hold of her anymore because ************** is no longer working with us. ************************** Production Manager, called the author and discussed everything, including the fact that the book has been registered and is waiting for the printers approval for distribution. However,the author insisted on the refund as a resolution.
  
  Proceeding to the request for a refund, both parties must consider the agreed points pertaining to the stipulations of the refund policy that states: "twenty-five percent (25%) of the total purchase price will be refunded where the author submitted the required materials and the actual work started but before giving the final approval". This is the substantive offer that the author can opt into. Taking into account the challenges that both parties, particularly the authors end, have encountered, we apologize and acknowledge that the representatives assigned to the author had shortcomings and failed to meet certain requests on time. However, it is also crucial to consider the efforts made, which are the fulfilled and completed phases of publication. The book registrations (ISBN, LCCN, etc.), book cover design, book interior layout, and book galley (a digital preview of the book)and now the book is ready for distribution subject to the release of approvalare the humble beginnings that are part of the long and winding journey of literary pursuit.
  
  Nevertheless,it is a great honor and privilege to assist authors like you. Authors who honor dedication and cooperation. We hope one of the clarifications will help make up for the challenges we both have experienced.
  
  
  
  Kind regards,

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/19/2023

  Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered. 

  See attached

   

   

  Business Response

  Date: 04/27/2023

  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges the authors response to complaint no. 19545605.
  Please see the attached file. Thank you.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/17/2023

  Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered. 

  See attached

   

   

  Business Response

  Date: 06/02/2023

  To Whom It May ********************** see the attached files. Thank you.
  
  Kind regards, 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 06/21/2023

  Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered. 

  See attached response 

   

   

  Business Response

  Date: 07/11/2023

  Please see the attached file. Thank you. 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/01/2022

  Type:Order Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I was contacted about my novels, I was told they will produce then, the person I was speaking about promised me the world,I paid $1,000 for the first book to be produced, then the deals started $2,500 to edit book I warned them not to do it because there was slang and curses and soldier's talk but they insisted, the book came back all chopped up and even ***** who was working on the books said they completely changed the book and she started to edit it herself. I complained and told them I warned their salesman not to edit book and demanded the money for editing to be repaid they refused and tried to offer me more services that was bull. They finally placed the money for editing to wards rest of contract that they themselves broke. Then I was contacted by ***** from their company who told me for $2,500 more he will produce a screen play of two of my books Devil in Paradise and Scorpion's Daughter, and it will be done by June the latest July and the screen plays will be in Neflix hands. Last month I contacted ***** and demanded to know why screen plays were not to ****** and he told me I had to grease hands to ************ to Neflix and it was very expensive to get books to that companey. The salesman told me over and over that my books will be produced and successful and I was going to be a millionair and that's why I continued to pay this company so much money, the whole contract was near $18,000 and so far I wasted nearly $10,000 and all I have to show for all this money is one book and I had to actually pay to have them send me the first free copy and then but ten copies. Since then I call and calls are never returned, or if they were returned they tell me they will look into it, or they send me an E'mail of it that I never get. I am still waiting for this ************************* to get back to me for over two weeks about this so called ****** deal that they are trying to exhort more money out of me. I am a totally disabled Vet at age 74 and they are taking advantage

  Business Response

  Date: 09/13/2022

  Dear **************************************
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors complaint ID: ********. As a manifestation, we are providing this response.
  
  We value you taking the time to inform us of your concern and for bringing it up for consideration.This may help in clearing up issues that have led to misunderstandings. We are willing to discuss the context of the matter and provide an explanation, which may guide us (both parties) to decide on the best course of action.
  
  We concede that we are in the pursuit of improving the quality and excellence of the services we provide to our clients. Hence, it is crucial for us to meet the needs and address the concerns that will be leveraged for the realization of the necessary amendments to be taken into account.
  We apologize for the confusion and inconvenience. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we resolve the matter.
  
  This response may provide clarification and resolve the raised concerns.
  
  Kindly allow us to particularize the points raised so we can address each appropriately.
  
  1.  ******************* for the authors book
  The author mentions, to wit, "I warned them not to do it because there was slang and curses and soldier's talk but they insisted, the book came back all chopped up and even ***** who was working on the books said they completely changed the book and she started to edit it herself." 
  
  In the publishing industry, it is culpable (so to speak) to not let the manuscript undergo the first phase of editing, which in this case is copyediting, prior to proofreading. To all intents and purposes, copyediting is the step preceding proofreading that makes sure the content (in the manuscript) is error-free in terms of spelling, grammar, jargon, punctuation, terminology, and formatting.It ensures consistency in manuscript writing. However, it is a concession to follow the process and, at the same time, not compromise the original and distinct message of the story the author intended to convey.
  
  The assigned Book Fulfillment Officer (***) informed the author regarding the result of the copyediting done by the copyeditors. The author was not pleased, and the *** tried to assist and fix the changes. However, the very message of the book was not intact due to the changes made. As a resolution, the author and his Book Fulfillment ******** ********************************** agreed and decided to publish the original copy (including the format, slang, etc.) of the book, NOT THE COPYEDITED VERSION.
  
  As the copyediting progressed, the author pronounced the need to get back the payment.The payment for the copyediting service was already utilized for the said service since the copyeditors had started the legwork.
  
  The author, ********************, had a word with *************************. ******************** suggested and requested to transfer the copyediting payment to his publishing balance,considering that the author has been publishing a number of books with ARP. The fourteen (14) books are the following: (1) Follow the Vulture, (2) Dragon Fire,(3) Wind, (4) A Scorpions Daughter, (5) Ramses Warning, (6) Operation *********************, (7) Incoming Friendly, (8) The Sword of God, (9) The Devil in Paradise,(10) Eagles Nest, (11) Winds Breath, (12) Ten Mile Limit, (13) Sting of the Scorpion, and (14) ***** Power. 
  
  To honor understanding, benevolence, and patienceto appease and resolve the issue, ************* had to file a request to be approved by the concerned departments and the admin, which will honor the authors request to transfer the copyediting payment to his publishing balance. ARP approved the authors request. 
  
  The book that was subjected to being copyedited has been published recently. As per the author's point regarding the slang, curses, and soldiers' talk, they were not changed. The provided original manuscript was the one that was published. The publisher made a blog post for the release of the book for marketing purposes.Heres the link: https://press.authorreputationpress.com/2022/09/08/*****************************-montagnas-the-scorpions-daughter-designer-biological-weapon-of-mass-destruction-is-now-available-for-purchase//.
  
  Furthermore, the following are the links on Amazon of the authors published books:
  https://www.amazon.com/Scorpions-Daughter-Designer-Biological-Destruction-ebook/dp/B0B8TKR6RY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=229UNMHJHEIT&keywords=The+Scorpion%E2%80%99s+Daughter%3A+Designer+Biological+Weapon+of+Mass+Destruction&qid=1663022052&s=digital-text&sprefix=the+scorpion+s+daughter+designer+biological+weapon+of+mass+destruction%2Cdigital-text%2C264&sr=1-1
  https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Fire-**********************************************-ebook/dp/B09SD73NGJ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1AIFX6K131LON&keywords=Dragon+Fire%E2%80%9D+by+*******+*******+Montagna&qid=1663022087&s=digital-text&sprefix=dragon+fire+by+*******+*******+********%2Cdigital-text%2C275&sr=1-1
  https://www.amazon.com/Wind-**********************************************-ebook/dp/B0B1W1SDXB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2BBCOJFACKVX1&keywords=Wind%E2%80%9D+by+*******+*******+Montagna&qid=1663022116&s=digital-text&sprefix=wind+by+*******+*******+********%2Cdigital-text%2C271&sr=1-1
  https://www.amazon.com/Follow-Vulture-**********************************************-ebook/dp/B0B2FGS4SX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RU5Y19S0RXED&keywords=Follow+the+Vulture+by+*******+*******+Montagna&qid=1663022154&s=digital-text&sprefix=follow+the+vulture+by+*******+*******+********%2Cdigital-text%2C268&sr=1-1
  https://www.amazon.com/Ramses-Warning-**********************************************-ebook/dp/B0B4F8JPLF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3AA5S27V6DN9Q&keywords=Ramses+Warning+by+*******+*******+Montagna&qid=1663022183&s=digital-text&sprefix=ramses+warning+by+*******+*******+********%2Cdigital-text%2C268&sr=1-1
  
  
  2. The author mentions another concern, to wit, "I was contacted by ***** from their company who told me for $2,500 more he will produce a screen play of two of my books Devil in Paradise and Scorpion's Daughter". 
  
  Regarding this point,the marketing department has been addressing the process of submission of the books for movie script coverage (screenplay), which will be utilized as one of the requirements for the application on Netflix.
  
  We need to take into account the fact that one of the books to be submitted is "A Scorpions Daughter", which was delayed in publication due to the supervening events (one is the copyediting issue) that impacted the progress of the publication.In particular, the said book was just published last month, which means that the availability of the final copy of the book, which will be used for the production of the screenplay, was released only last month.
  
  For the second book,"The Devil in Paradise", the *** is waiting for the release of the **book copy to be submitted to the printer, which will lead to the official release of the book (to be considered live).
  
  Given that "The Devil in Paradise" is not yet officially published, then the publishing and marketing department decided to utilize the interior layout (IL) of the manuscript (which is ready) for screenplay production.
  
  To encapsulate the elements of this concern, both the "A Scorpions Daughter" and "The Devil in Paradise" copies are to be submitted to produce the movie script coverage (screenplays).
  
  3. Last concern raised by the author, to wit, the whole contract was near $18,000 and so far I wasted nearly $10,000 and all I have to show for all this money is one book and I had to actually pay to have them send me the first free copy and then but ten copies
  
  In respect to this concern, which has two (2) points. (1) nearly $18,000 and so far I wasted nearly $10,000 and (2) one book and I had to actually pay to have them send me the first free copy and then but ten copies. First, apparently, the nearly $18,000 is not only for publishing fourteen (14) books, but that includes the movie script coverage (screenplays) for two books, which are marketing services. Now, for point 2, it is stipulated in the contract signed by the author that the publishing package purchased only caters to the printing of the complimentary books. Hence, the shipping and handling are the responsibility of the author.
  
  *******************, we appreciate your cooperation with Author Reputation Press. We hope that we (both parties) are in the pursuit of resolving the issues and that things are going well for you at this time.
  
  
  
  
  Kind regards,
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/14/2022

  [A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response.  If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]
  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does satisfy my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint #********. I understand that by choosing to accept the business response that my complaint will be closed as resolved. 
  
  Regards,
  
  **********************************

  I had no choice but to accept what they offered for the editing, I paid $2,500 for editing and they couldn't use i=the editing as they even offer and they were the ones who said they couldn't return what I paid for the4 editing, even though they were not going to use the editing. They sugtgested I use the $2,500 to pay book stores to taker my books and buy them back if they dn't sell and I refused and since they said they would not return the money to me, I diid come up with the idea to use the $2,500 for further contract agreement even though the company complely destroyed our contract. Noow I see they will use my books as writen to submit to ******** and once again I paid $,500 for the two niovels to be turned into screen plays and once again there will be no screen play created so again UI'm forced to pay $2,500 for aqn offering that they won't use. The way lige goes if one pays for a service and that sercvice is unavaible, usually that money is returned, so thsi company has $5,000 for services I psi for that theya re not using. Also i have not hear word one about the frankfort book fair and what they instend to do about that, and I get no communications form thsi company whatsioevger. They told me to give them four weeks and they will straighten this out and they say nothing here about that offer. sorry for the misspelled workds, I'm nearly blind and this sd=small print is impossibel for me to read, and I'm more than willing to work out ****** problems with this company, all I want is to get my novels to someone who'll do something with them and then we allcan be happy together, again, sorry for the misspelling but I can't ready what I';m writing and sinc eI was only given ten minutes to write this I'm under poressure, thank you.
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/10/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Author Reputation Press contacted me that they can help me revise my book and and help me market it. They charged me money for the revision of the book, money to market the book, money to set up a website. I paid all these amounts; $4,546. I overpaid them $764.16. What happened was I withheld the last payment of $764.16. I told my bank not to pay it. But they told the bank that they had a contract with me so my bank finally released the money. The money got stuck in arbitration. ***************************** called me and said I have to pay the $764.14 so that they can continue with their work. I paid the money to them with the promise that when the money is released from arbitration it will be sent to me. That was in March of 2022. When I called to talk to ****************, either he is on break and that he will call me when he gets back or I should call back in an hour. **************** would never return my phone calls. Three weeks ago he took my credit card number and promised me that the money will be paid into my account. I'm still waiting for that to happen. **************** told me *** will call me for a radio interview but that hasn't happened either. So, I'm lodging this complaint about the company's deceptive business practices and dishonesty. I can't trust Author reputation press anymore and I hope people will come out and shed light on these shady practices. I want them to be exposed!!!

  Business Response

  Date: 08/19/2022

  Dear *****************************,
  
  
  Author Reputation Press acknowledges and honors the authors complaint.
  
  We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts and perspectives on the matter, as well as the specifics so that we can address the raised concern(s). In this approach, we, the other party, would be able to present our end and perspective as well.
  
  We apologize for any inconvenience this situation has caused the author. May this response clarify, satisfy, and resolve the complaint.
  
  We also appreciate your patience and understanding while we cooperate to settle any misunderstandings that *** have occurred.
  
  Kindly allow us to particularize the points raised so we can address each appropriately.
  
  1.  $764.16 to be received by the author
  
  First, we appreciate your provision of background information on the aforementioned amount. We acknowledge our shortcomings and apologize for them. In the grand scheme of things, it is pointless to focus on blaming parties and things of that nature. In lieu, we will focus on resolving the issue. In any case, both individually and collectively, it is our shared goal to pursue clarity and resolution.
  
  We shall leverage the power of this opportunity the author has provided to be truthful and seek a resolution that satisfies the demands of both parties. Even though ***************************** *** have fallen short, he still made an effort and did his best. However, there are things he cant control, and so does ARP. In truth, he (****************) submitted a request to be processed and addressed the refund request by various departments for which he needed assistance.
  
  The request was addressed and processed by Author Reputation Press. The request for reversal was accepted by the issuer on March 20, 2022. For your perusal, kindly review attachment 1. *** waited for the arbitration award to be released and reflected on the card as a premise and framework to proceed as necessary. Before we arrived at this phase, the process took months. Nonetheless, we wish to reiterate that the author is unquestionably entitled to the amount that was agreed upon.
  
  
  ARP issued a refund check amounting to $764.16 USD. For your perusal, kindly review attachment 2. As of this writing, we are still waiting for the tracking number to be reflected. In pursuance of that, we are requesting your good office to manifest patience and understanding.
  
  
  
  2. **** will call me for a radio interview but that hasn't happened either."
  
  
  Regarding this concern, kindly allow us to clarify the matter. The ********************* not only ***************************, has been addressing the concern by providing the author and publisher/marketer communication and connection via emails and calls. *****************************, one of the Marketing Fulfillment Officers, sent an email on May 2, 2022, to *****************************. The email is intended to inform the author of the available tentative schedule. The said department received no confirmation. Hence, ***************************, another Marketing Fulfillment Officer, sent another email last June 13, 2022, informing the author of the updated (available) tentative schedule to be confirmed by the author. However, they received no confirmation. Kindly review attachment 3.
  
  
  Furthermore, ******************** placed a number of calls that went to voicemail. **************** left town to deal with some matters, as we discovered in the interim. The point of contention was that there were numerous misunderstandings that led to this issue.
  
  
  Recently, ******************** and **************** have been communicating (via calls) to finalize the authors schedule for the radio interview. This *** entail that the concern has been addressed and resolved.
  
  
  ****************, we appreciate your cooperation with Author Reputation Press. We hope things are going well for you at this time.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Kind regards,