If you are passing your local newsstand or newsagent tomorrow on the way to work, and you are also a keen writer on the lookout for an author solutions service, then you would be wise to pick up a copy of December’s edition of Writing Magazine. In the Writers’ News section (p27), UK author, Brian Lux, recounts his experience with Callio Press (formerly Discovered Authors and Bookforce), a company run by former Random House UK employee, Graham Miller.

“As a regional winner of an Undiscovered Authors competition, I was excited, knowing I would be published, AND receive a cash prize, as well as royalties. The prize came in dribs and drabs, and I was alerted to possible problems, when I was asked if I would take the last amount in books! Also, one printed batch was awful, and I was alerted by a fellow author. I remember Graham’s son suggesting I should have noticed the mistakes, as I had a proof copy! The answer to that was the proof copy didn’t have those mistakes. The staff were very supportive, though I was concerned at the changes, suggesting D/A was not a happy ship. Now I am trying to get my files back, and as for outstanding royalties….”