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DIP Publishing House / DIP Press / ProxVoice Publishing Co.

Elisabeth Bruce

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A young friend of mine on a writing site said she had been approached by this company in an email (public on yet another writing site)

I can't find out much about them apart from their website:

www.dippub.com

but I'm not really liking what I see and I've advised her to stay away from them.

PA isn't recycling itself is it? It does have a similar 'flavor'.

Thanks for any helpful information.
 

Katrina S. Forest

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I don't know anything about this company in particular, but being approached directly by a publisher (especially one who hasn't actually read any of your work) is always a red flag.

Companies advertise to potential consumers. If you're a commercial publisher, then your consumers are readers. If you're a vanity press, your consumers are authors.

I think the content of the e-mail speaks for itself.
 

waylander

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That their front page is pushing their publication packages and not the books they publish is a major red flag
 
Last edited:

CaoPaux

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Vanity, straight up.
 

Jinx

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i got the same email from them and this is the pdf they sent me

HELPING WRITERS BECOME AUTHORS
Partnership-Publishing
[FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]2 3
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Table of Contents
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]What is P.O.W.E.R (F.A.Q's) ..................................................................... 4
Publisher Commitment. .......................................................................... 7
Author Commitment ............................................................................. 11
Scheduling ............................................................................................. 14
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]4
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]WWhhaatt iiss PP..OO..WW..EE..RR..??
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]P.O.W.E.R. came to be in response to the many writers in search of a traditional publishing opportunity. Through P.O.W.E.R. our primary objective is to serve as a platform to achieve greater publishing success for Authors less exposed. And by less exposed we are referring to the 97% - 98% of Authors whose manuscripts are rejected each year by publishers.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]IIss TThhiiss SSeellff--PPuubblliisshhiinngg??
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]No. Although DIP Publishing currently offers Self-Publishing services, the P.O.W.E.R. program falls within the Traditional Publishing category – [/FONT][/FONT]See Partnership[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri].
[/FONT]
[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]AAuutthhoorr CCoommppeennssaattiioonn
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Royalty percentages are determined by factors identified as advantages, providing added support in the marketing and promotion of book(s). Factors include but are not limited to the following:
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Content: Although we publish a variety of genres, we understand that some genres are more popular among readers than others.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Final book price.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author popularity.
Royalty categories:
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]DDiirreecctt:: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Orders placed directly through Publisher or Author website(s). Direct royalty range: 40% - 50%.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]RReettaaiill:: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Orders placed through 3[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]rd [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]parties (e.g. – Barnes @ Noble). Retail royalty range: 25% - 35%.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]eeBBooookk:: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Orders placed via eBook reader. Applicable manuscripts to be uploaded as eBook via Kindle & Nook. Publisher due 15% per eBook sale, with the remaining divided between Author and Retailer.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]AAuutthhoorr SSeelleeccttiioonn PPrroocceessss
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Authors are selected according to manuscript content and marketability. Reader worthy content that is marketable makes our job as the Publisher much easier, providing greater confidence in our ability to successfully promote and sell your book.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]WWiillll II LLoossee TThhee RRiigghhttss TToo MMyy WWoorrkk??
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]No. However, the Publisher does require certain rights to act on Author’s behalf for promotional and marketing purposes (as indicated in the Author Agreement). Agreement terms shall be determined prior to the signing of legal document. At the conclusion of agreement term Author and Publisher shall decide, with no side having the right to make such determination on their own, whether or not; and if so how they will move forward – Resulting in what would be a renegotiation of terms or simply renewing of contract. Authors wishing to acquire legal representation are responsible for the associated expenses.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]IIss TThheerree AAnn AAggee MMiinniimmuumm??
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]No. However, Authors under (18) years of age must obtain permission and full support of parent(s)/guardian(s). No member of DIP Publishing or its P.O.W.E.R. team is permitted to negotiate contractual terms with minors without the representation of a parent(s) or legal guardian. [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]6
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]WWhhaatt IIss PPaarrttnneerrsshhiipp--PPuubblliisshhiinngg??
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Partnership-Publishing is the new way to traditionally publish, offering a credible and profitable method to publish in an industry inundated with writers and reluctant publishing Houses.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]HHooww DDooeess IItt WWoorrkk??
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Partners are published in
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]blocks of (5) to (20) Authors. Each block is assigned a budget for use of marketing, promotions, registrations, and other related expenses approved under the P.O.W.E.R. project. Blocks are run by Block Coordinators (Agents) whose primary objective is to develop Authors and obtain books sales. Coordinators work closely with Sales and Marketing to establish the most relevant approach to the market in order to obtain optimal results.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]At the conclusion of quarter [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri](1) – (6 months following publishing) Authors are reevaluated according to book sales and current momentum of project(s). Authors deemed as high-potential shall receive their own budget for the following quarter, independent of block budget. On the other hand, Authors not considered high-potential by the end of quarter (1) shall once again share a promotional budget with block.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Our goal [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]is to see that every Author receives a rating of "high-potential" by the end of quarter (1). The following section ([/FONT][/FONT]Publisher Commitment[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]) outlines our commitment to help make that happen. [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]7
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]PPuubblliisshheerr CCoommmmiittmmeenntt
[/FONT]
[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Partnership includes:
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author agent: Literary representation for all matters related to promoting and selling of book(s).
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Book cover design (process and embed external files to meet industry printing standards – embossed cover designs not permitted).
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Internal formatting (process and embed external files to meet industry printing standards)
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Proof copy: Authors to approve manuscripts prior to final publishing.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author-page: Unique online Author account for the tracking of book sales, and all other informative items.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Editing: Syntax corrections only (Manuscripts must be properly organized prior to editing. Stories that are not readable are not marketable and shall not be published until manuscript meets requirements).
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Marketing & promotional material (material production determined according to strategy):
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Promo videos
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Audio ads
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Graphic design: Artwork and design related to project(s).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Prints: Book marks, posters, and other related printed material.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Accounting:
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Quarterly royalty tracking.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Quarterly reporting: Book sales, royalty tracking, other related reporting.
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]8
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Royalty payments: Authors may opt to receive check by mail or direct deposit (check stubs provided regardless of payment methods, by email or snail mail.).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Block budgets: Review and approve budgets (initial budget pre-set per block. Subsequent budgets set per Author according to results of reevaluation).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Budget range (per block – quarter one): Min $25,000 – $100,000 *USD (Budgets set according but not limited to the following: block-arrangement, survey findings, genre, and Author count.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]ISBN Registration: 13-digit + 10-digit codes (required for retail transactions).
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Library of Congress: Required for library placement.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Retail Registration (U.S. and non-U.S. channels): Upload to 30,000 plus databases across the world, to include all major retailers and distributors (Wal-Mart, Barnes and Noble, Baker & Taylor, Ingram, Amazon and thousands more). As a traditional Author all books are returnable and physically placed according to individual marketing and promotional strategies.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Full Publication (Print, Distribution and Registration)
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]eBook registration: Upload to both Kindle & Nook eBook platforms.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Marketing & Promotions
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Marketing & Promotional budget: Each block is provided a set budget for marketing and promotional efforts to cover a period of (3) months or (1) quarter. Subsequent budget(s) determined according to individual book sales.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Surveying: To locate and connect with readers of interest.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Strategy development: Development of marketing strategy to include promotional avenues most appropriate for book genre (to potentially include any or all of the following marketing avenues: online ads, television ads, radio ads, direct marketing, and print ads)
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]9
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Book signings: Pivotal Author event strategically designed to maximize exposure upon release of book.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Press release: Press release submissions to over (500) media outlets worldwide (submissions determined according to strategy).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Book reviewers: Submissions to over (50) book reviewing entities (e.g. – New York Times). Media outlets shall be provided with complimentary copy of book.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Book tour (Authors are not required to commit to book tours): Once determined that Author has acquired adequate following, arrangements to include points of interest and scheduling of book tour shall begin. Authors unable to partake in book tour(s) should inform publisher immediately so to prevent attempts to arrange and schedule tour(s). Author should also inform Publisher of any known health conditions, so to prevent inaccurate reporting to insurance provider(s).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Interviews: Author shall provide Publisher with an update and accurate schedule for the purpose of scheduling interviews. Interviews include the following and are arranged according to promotional strategy – radio, television, print, and online. Author should notify Publisher immediately upon conflict of scheduling for adjustment purposes.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Book Fair(s): Book Fair registration according to genre, location, Author availability, and promotional strategy.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Social media networking: Paid promotions according to promotional strategy to include major social networking sites (e.g. – Facebook, Myspace, etc.).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Develop and produce customer incentives for book promotions (e.g. – Contests, buzz generating activities, etc.).
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Sales
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Retail placement negotiations on Author’s behalf (set according to promotional strategy).
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]10
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Sell to libraries, schools and other entities (final placement pertaining to schools, libraries and other government funded entities are at the sole discretion of the buyer).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Orders & Returns.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Distribution of promotional material.
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Setting of sales goals.
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]11
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author Commitment
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]As a mandate for funding and a method to minimize risks, Authors are required to complete a list of "Pre-Block" Requirements (PBR). Pre-Block Requirements due no later than
October 25, 2011. It is important to note that in addition to Publisher contributions, Author participation is equally as important.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]PPuurrppoossee ooff PPBBRR’’ss::
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]PBR’s serve as pre-requisites in accordance with program requirements set by the finance committee. Partners are expected to take on an active role throughout the publishing process.
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]AAuutthhoorr PPBBRR’’ss iinncclluuddee::
[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]A. Completed Partner Information Form:
Form contents-
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Full Name
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Current Address
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Phone
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Email
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Bank Information – voided check (required only for direct deposits)
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author schedule: Schedule required for planning of promotional events.
B. Completed tax form (provided by Publisher): Required for income tax purposes.
Note: Authors are responsible for the filing of tax returns and any associated costs.
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]12
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Signed Author Agreement[/FONT][/FONT]: Parental consent required for Authors under the age of 18).
[FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri](10) Completed Pre-Block exchanges: In support of assigned Block and project requirements, Authors must identify (10) supporters and complete (10) exchanges ([/FONT][/FONT]Authors may also satisfy Pre-Block exchanges on their own[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]). Exchange funds are used in conjunction with overall block budget to offset miscellaneous setup fees and reduce risks ($19.99 *USD per exchange – this cost does not represent the actual book price). Supporters identified by Authors will receive the following:
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri](1) Signed copy of final book ([/FONT][/FONT]supporters responsible for shipping costs[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Acknowledgment within book (optional).
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[/FONT]Note: Authors achieving exceptional sales (1,000 or more) at the conclusion of quarter one shall be fully reimbursed the Pre-Block exchanges.
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Transaction Methods: Supporters may use any of the following payment methods:
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Log on to www.dippub.com and follow the P.O.W.E.R. link (supporters must enter Author’s name in the description box during checkout).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Check or money order made out to DIP Publishing House (mail to: P.O Box 723262, Atlanta Georgia 31139).
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[/FONT][FONT=Courier New,Courier New][FONT=Courier New,Courier New]o [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Call 877.430.7769 and choose to speak with an Agent.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Basic edit: Prior to final edit, Authors are required to first review manuscript(s) for content clarity.
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[/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]13
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Full Bio: One page max.
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[/FONT][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][FONT=Wingdings,Wingdings][/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Optional: Direct Deposit (inquire w/Agent).
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[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]SScchheedduulliinngg [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial,Arial][FONT=Arial,Arial]14
[/FONT]
[/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]PPrroocceessss ffrroomm SSttaarrtt ttoo FFiinniisshh:: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]PPrroocceessss [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]DDaattee && DDeessccrriippttiioonn [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Intent to Publish [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Acknowledgment to move forward. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Author Agreement [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Contractual negotiations to begin immediately following intent to publish. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Manuscript Submission [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Digital transfer of manuscript. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Block Placement [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Placement according to Agent’s request. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Pre-Block Requirements (PBR’s) [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Due: 10.25.2011
(See Pre-Block Requirements)
[/FONT]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Production [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Begins: 11.1.2011
Includes: Final edit / internal formatting / book cover design / book registrations.
[/FONT]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Strategy Development [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Begins: 11.1.2011
Includes: Marketing & Promotions.
[/FONT]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Pre-Marketing & Promotions [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Calibri,Calibri][FONT=Calibri,Calibri]Begins: 11.15.2011 [/FONT][/FONT]
 

frimble3

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Is that multiple-letter thing in the bolding part of the pdf or something that cropped up when you posted it here?
 

agentpaper

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My friend just got solicited by this company through webook. I sent her to your blog post, Victoria, and asked her to contact you, but I think I've helped her steer clear of this place. Thanks, AW and Victoria, for keeping up with all these types of things.
 
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MacAllister

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Heh.

Just got this email:
The following message was sent to you via the Absolute Write Water Cooler Contact Us form by DIP Publishing Legal Team ( mailto:[redacted]@dippub.com ).

--------------------------------

This message is concerning the below link. Please have our company name removed from your site immediately. We find that it is false and poorly represents our company.

We ask that the post be removed by Monday, 10/22/2012, or that we be notified via email that it will be removed or we shall proceed first thing the following Tuesday to file the proper legal documents.

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=218530

Thank you,
DIP Publishing Legal Team

Wow. That crack "Legal Team" is putting in the serious billable hours on this, sending email at nearly 9 PM (pacific) on a Friday night. That's near midnight in Georgia, where they're ostensibly located.

I've responded with rather more than my usual level of diplomacy:
Dear "Legal Team" --

I won't be deleting anything.

Do whatever you feel you need to do. But last I checked, people get to discuss their experiences with companies, whether those experiences are good, bad, or indifferent.

You can take your deadline and do whatever you find most constructive with it -- I certainly do not recognize your authority to instruct me as to what content I may or may not host.

cheers,
Mac
 
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Deleted member 42

I note that their Terms and conditions link doesn't function, nor does their Privacy Policy link.

On their About page as part of their Mission Statement:

DIP Publishing said:
To produce quality products and ensure superior distribution spanning international borders.

Giving readers around the world access to author products at low costs and speedy delivery.

That's not English. It's certainly not the work of any one who has any experience or knowledge about book publishing.

How exactly does one "span international borders?"

"Author products?" I suspect that the poor souls used a template. Publishers don't produce author products; they produce books.

The interest and emphasis on selling "author products" is a vanity press warning. Soliciting authors directly is at best disquieting; printers solicit customers, publishers deal with slush and professional literary agents.

I note for the lexicographically inclined that definitions of "dip" include:

v. tr. 9. Slang To pick the pockets of.

n. 14. Slang A pickpocket.
15. Slang A foolish or stupid person.

Do read what Writer Beware says about Dip publishing.
 
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MacAllister

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Annnnd they've already responded:
Mac,

Thank you for your message. While you reserve the right to move forward however you choose, we also reserve the right to act in our best interest as well.
I will allow you until Monday to reconsider or we will be contacting the Authority who governs your site in addition to filing a formal complaint of which we fully intend to follow through.
A successful finding may result in stiff financial penalties for your side. And while I respect your rebuttal and desire to stand your ground, this is not an argument, but rather a request. We have aligned our resources to pursue this matter to the full extent of the law.
We wish you very best.
Thanks,
Legal Team

I've answered:
Seriously - go piss up a rope. Take your best shot. Fill in the cliche of your choice. I will not be reconsidering.

best,
Mac
 

Richard White

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Just looking through the .pdf that Jinx posted . . . maybe I'm misreading something but is DIP claiming that they'll act as an agent for the writer? *first bullet under Publisher Commitment*

How does a publisher act as an agent?

Even if they weren't asking for money, this sounds like amateur hour all the way. I'd avoid this one at all costs.
 

Unimportant

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I need "slander" for my bingo card.
 

MacAllister

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BAHAHAHHAHAHA!!!! Now this just in:
Please discontinue contact with our staff.

Thank you,
MA

Hey, DIP Legal Team (Or, y'know, Kenzie, or even MA -- all of you have emailed me from the same IP within minutes, now) --

Since I'm only too happy to cease communicating with your "staff" (I'd just like to point out that I didn't initiate contact in the FIRST place) I'll just post my response here. It should show up on a Google search for DIP Publishing by early tomorrow, where anyone who might be burning with curiosity can handily find it:

Put down the bottle of chardonnay, stop Googling yourself, STOP EMAILING me, and go to bed. Seriously. We've all been there, so I feel confident that this is the best advice I can offer you, tonight.

And drink lots of water before bed, m'kay?
 
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Chase

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1. Even if I weren't a "talented but international yet unknown author," I might be tempted to try this publisher solely because both of my sisters used to call me a DIP (see Lisa's definition).

2. Dr. Sheldon Cooper prizes restraining orders from Leonard Nimoy and others, and he was personally insulted by Stephen Hawking. I think these notes from Mac to DIP's PLT are equally of framing quality.
 
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MacAllister

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This thread had been dead for over a year when "they" decided to start threatening me.

Tsk.

That wasn't really a very prudent strategy, in terms of online discussion.

Also, it pissed me off to get a prissy "stop emailing us" letter when I didn't initiate contact in the first place.

But I'm happy to respect the boundaries established by DIP Publishing and/or Argus Milton and/or Kenzie Delgado in the request that I cease emailing any response to their communications to me.
 
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Deleted member 42

The Admin contact in Whois for dippub.com is Argus Milton

Argus Milton is one of the names on solicitation spam pushing Dip Publishing; s.v. http://accrispin.blogspot.com/2011/08/solicitation-alerts-justfiction-edition.html

Argus Miltion's Web site: http://argusmilton.com

Among other eponyms, he calls himself the Business Physician:

http://www.argusmilton.com/thebusinessphysician.html

Alas, he seems to be somewhat lacking in expository prose.

Mr. Milton owns ProxVoice Publishing Company (PPC): President/Founder (Current). Publishing both fiction and non-fiction titles. For more information visit: www.proxvoicepublishing.com

The ProxVoice Web site is defunct; the domain appears to be no longer active.

But ProxVoice published these two books: http://isbndb.com/d/publisher/proxvoice_publishing_company.html

Finally by Tramaine L. Bailey,
Publisher: ProxVoice Publishing Company
ISBN: 098454514X Edition: Paperback; 2010-11-17

Single, Satisfied, & Saved Ashley Lounds-Brooks,
Publisher: ProxVoice Publishing Company
ISBN: 0984545107 Edition: Paperback; 2010-11-19

Argus Milton on Linked In http://www.linkedin.com/pub/argus-milton-mba/16/697/b55

He cites a Keller Graduate School of Management MBA; Keller is a DeVry school. It's not a respected credential. He claims to have two undergraduate Bachelor degrees, but never actually cites them. That's never a good sign.

Nor is the fact that the Dip Publishing "team" are a little close-mouthed about their expertise and credentials:
http://www.linkedin.com/search?sear...blishing+House&sortCriteria=R&keepFacets=true

He's on Twitter, sort of: https://twitter.com/argusmilton

In a Tweet Mr. Milton identifies Dip Books Publishing as a ProxVoice Subsidiary
https://twitter.com/argusmilton/status/6589920208

"Self publishing now available through the new DIP Publishing, a ProxVoice subsidiary. Pass the word! 12/12/09"

Mr. Milton is terribly free with his [SUP]TM[/SUP]; I note that none of the terms he [SUP]TM[/SUP]s seem to be in the Federal registry as his or his companies' marks.

Mr. Milton appears to be a victim of AuthorHouse
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1425989799/?tag=absowrit-20

His is not a Good Reads success story:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4623531.Argus_Milton

In fact his publishing efforts (even those with family members) are somewhat lacking: http://bilyatovbovupus.blogspot.com/2011/09/astrology-sex-and-you-aric-milton-and.html

I note that Mr. Milton, along with Sophia/Kenzie the administrative contact, in addition to soliciting naïve authors, are on all the display sites. Here's a post from writing room (http://www.writingroom.com/DipPub

Dip Publishing's Dip Partnership Guide.pdf which outlines their scheme online.

male Dip rep said:
Distribution, author support, quality, and variety is the DIP difference. Offering self and traditional publishing options, our top-quality publishing, editing and marketing services makes it simple for Authors just like you to achieve their publishing goals. Whether book writing is your career or simply a goal, DIP Publishing will bring your vision to life! Call us at 1(877.430.7769) or visit our website at www.dippub.com. For your convenience you may also send an email to: [email protected]

I question the textual expertise of anyone who can use a phrase like "the dip difference."
 
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G. Applejack

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MacAllister

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Does... does he actually have a book called 'Nigger Struck'?

Oh dear.

Edit: On further reading, here's little from the blurb.



So I see what he's going for, but he's right. I don't want to touch it.

Yeah. The sad part is that the usual response to realizing you've been scammed by some outfit like AuthorHouse isn't to form your own company to start trying to ream other naive writers.