1. Purpose of these standards
These standards protect readers, authors and the reputation of every book we publish. They apply to every manuscript, regardless of subject, length or timeline.
2. Accuracy
Facts, figures, names, dates and references are checked for accuracy and consistency. Where a claim relies on data or research, it is attributed to a credible source.
3. Originality
Books must be original work. We do not publish plagiarised material, and we check manuscripts for unattributed copying before publication.
4. Quotations and permissions
Quotations are attributed accurately and kept within fair use or fair dealing limits. Where a longer extract, image or third-party material is used, permission must be obtained from the rights holder before publication.
5. Honest claims
Claims about results, credentials and outcomes must be truthful and supportable. We do not publish exaggerated promises, fabricated case studies or testimonials that cannot be substantiated.
6. Client and third-party privacy
Stories involving clients, colleagues or other individuals are anonymised or used with permission. Details that could identify someone without their consent are changed or removed.
7. Professional and regulated advice
Books that touch on medical, legal, financial or other regulated topics include appropriate context and disclaimers, and must not present general guidance as individual professional advice.
8. Content we do not publish
We will not publish content that:
- Promotes hatred, discrimination or violence against any person or group.
- Is defamatory, or makes unsupported allegations about real people or organisations.
- Encourages illegal activity or causes harm.
- Is deliberately misleading or presents misinformation as fact.
- Infringes the intellectual property or privacy rights of others.
9. Reviews and rankings
We never buy, fabricate or incentivise reviews in exchange for positive ratings, and we never manipulate sales or ranking data. Early readers are invited to share honest opinions.
10. The editorial process
Every manuscript passes through developmental editing, line editing, copy editing and proofreading. You review and approve the manuscript before publication.
11. When standards are not met
If a manuscript raises a concern under these standards, we will explain the issue and work with you to resolve it. In rare cases where it cannot be resolved, we may decline to publish the affected content.
Contact
Questions about this policy can be sent to [email protected]. We aim to reply within five business days.