- Paige Ross
- 0 min read
Bookemon vs. Scribe
Table of Contents
Choosing the right self-publishing platform can be a critical decision for authors, especially those seeking professional-quality results. In this article, we compare two distinct platforms: Bookemon, known for its affordability and ease of use, versus Scribe, a premium service targeting non-fiction authors, particularly entrepreneurs and executives. We’ll cover services, pricing, royalties, timelines, marketing, and more to help you determine which platform best suits your publishing needs.
| FEATURE |  |  |
| ⭐ Customer Experience | Positive reviews for ease of use and affordability, but occasional delays | Premium experience praised for high-quality output, but high costs |
| 💸 Affordability | Very affordable with packages starting at $99 | Expensive, between $18,000 and $58,000 |
| 💰Royalties | Authors keep 100% of royalties | Authors keep 100% of royalties |
| ⏳Production Speed | The process completes after ordering a complimentary copy (exact Amazon availability timeline unclear) | Takes approximately 9 months due to extensive quality assurance and marketing preparation |
| 🏢 Marketing Services | Basic tools (social media integration, video sharing) | Comprehensive but costly marketing services |
| 🌎 Distribution | Amazon and Bookemon Store; POD available | Provides setup assistance, but authors must find their own distributors |
| 🧑💻 Support | Limited support via online resources and guides | A dedicated team including a publishing manager, PR team, and designers |
| 📚Formats | Softcover, hardcover, and eBooks available | Softcover, hardcover, and eBooks available |
| 💎 Transparency | Transparent pricing and services with clear packages | Pricing information is available, but specific royalty details require consultation |
Overview of Bookemon
Bookemon is an accessible self-publishing platform that empowers authors, educators, and creative individuals to publish their own books affordably. Known for its user-friendly design, it caters to first-time authors, teachers, and young writers, making it easy to create books using online tools or by uploading existing documents.
The standout Creative Author Press (CAP) package offers ISBN assignment, Amazon distribution, and a complimentary printed copy for just $99—an attractive option for budget-conscious authors. Additionally, Bookemon’s print-on-demand (POD) services allow for softcover and hardcover book printing without upfront inventory costs.
However, Bookemon’s marketing support is limited to basic social media tools, relying heavily on authors for promotion. It also lacks advanced editorial services, making it less suitable for those seeking in-depth editing or high-end marketing strategies. Despite these limitations, Bookemon has received positive feedback, holding an ‘Excellent’ 4.6-star rating based on 1,339 reviews on Trustpilot. Overall, Bookemon is best for authors looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to self-publish their books.
Key Features
- Creative Author Press (CAP) Package
- Print-on-Demand (POD)
- User-Friendly Book Creation Tools
- Flexible Layout Options
- Social Media Marketing Tools
- Video Promotion
- Volume Discounts
- Collaborative Book Projects
- Support Resources
Does Not Offer
- Extensive Editorial Services
- Comprehensive Marketing
- Dedicated Customer Support Team
- Full Distribution Management
Overview of Scribe
Scribe is a premium publishing service specializing in non-fiction works, catering primarily to professionals such as entrepreneurs, consultants, and executives. They are renowned for delivering high-quality, professionally published books, offering comprehensive services that encompass manuscript evaluation, editing, cover design, interior layout, and eBook creation. Scribe’s team-based approach provides authors with dedicated support, including a publishing manager, creative director, and marketing professionals, ensuring a seamless publishing experience.
One of Scribe’s standout features is their commitment to author ownership. However, this premium service comes at a significant cost, with packages starting at $18,000 and reaching up to $58,000 for top-tier options. Additionally, Scribe does not handle distribution directly; instead, they assist authors in setting up their own distribution channels, which may require additional effort from the author. It’s also important to note that Scribe exclusively focuses on non-fiction genres, making it unsuitable for fiction authors.
As of now, Scribe does not have a Trustpilot score available, which may be due to a lack of sufficient reviews on the platform. Prospective clients are encouraged to consult other review sources or request testimonials directly from Scribe to assess customer satisfaction.
Key Features
- Premium Non-Fiction Publishing
- Comprehensive Book Design
- Dedicated Publishing Team
- High-Quality Editing
- Ownership of Rights
- Marketing Services
- Author Support
- 50 Free Author Copies
- Flexible Payment Options
Does Not Offer
- Fiction Publishing
- Full Distribution Services
- Print-on-Demand (POD)
- Online Self-Publishing Tools
Affordability
When comparing affordability, Bookemon and Scribe are on opposite ends of the spectrum, as pricing usually is when it comes to self-publishing platforms and traditional publishers. The differences in quality and quantity of services offered by each company are substantial, and incredibly important when choosing a publishing platform for your work:
Bookemon Pricing
Bookemon is designed for budget-conscious authors, offering affordable self-publishing options. Their Creative Author Press (CAP) package costs just $99, which includes ISBN assignment, Amazon distribution, and a complimentary printed copy. Additionally, Bookemon’s print-on-demand (POD) services start at $10 for softcover books, making it an economical choice for independent authors or those publishing personal projects.
Scribe Pricing
In contrast, Scribe is a premium service tailored to non-fiction authors, particularly professionals looking for a polished, high-end product. Their packages start at $18,000 and can go up to $58,000 for their top-tier services, which include ghostwriting, extensive editing, and personalized marketing strategies. While Scribe does not take a percentage of royalties, the upfront costs are substantial, making it suitable primarily for those with larger budgets who prioritize quality over cost.
In summary, Bookemon stands out as the more affordable option, ideal for authors seeking a cost-effective, DIY publishing solution. Scribe, while significantly more expensive, caters to clients who are willing to invest heavily for a professionally managed, high-quality publishing experience.
Publishing Timeline
When comparing the publishing timelines of Bookemon and Scribe, there are significant differences in both speed and complexity.
Bookemon offers a relatively quick and flexible publishing process, ideal for authors looking to get their books to market swiftly. Once authors complete their book design and approve it, the publishing process is typically finalized after ordering a complimentary copy. However, while books become available on Amazon soon after, exact timelines for full availability are not always specified. Overall, Bookemon’s process is designed for fast, efficient self-publishing, making it suitable for those who want to publish on a shorter schedule.
In contrast, Scribe takes a much longer, more meticulous approach. The average timeline for Scribe is around 9 months, largely due to their emphasis on thorough manuscript evaluation, professional editing, high-end design, and extensive marketing preparation. This longer timeline reflects their commitment to producing polished, high-quality books that meet industry standards. Scribe’s process is tailored to non-fiction professionals who prioritize quality and are willing to invest the time for a comprehensive publishing experience.
In summary, Bookemon is a better fit for authors who want a quick and straightforward publishing experience, while Scribe caters to those who are prepared for a longer timeline in exchange for a premium, highly customized service.
Royalties
Both Bookemon and Scribe allow authors to retain 100% of their royalties, but they differ in how royalties are managed and paid out.
With Bookemon, authors have full control over their earnings, keeping all profits after deducting platform fees for sales on Amazon or Bookemon’s store. Authors set their own prices and profit margins, and royalties are paid out via PayPal as they accumulate. This structure makes it straightforward and accessible, especially for self-publishing authors who want to manage their own finances. The payouts are relatively flexible, but specific schedules (e.g., monthly or quarterly) are not clearly defined on their website.
Scribe, on the other hand, also allows authors to keep 100% of the royalties, ensuring that authors own all rights to their work. However, Scribe does not directly handle royalty payouts. Instead, they set up distribution channels under the author’s name, meaning that authors are responsible for managing their own sales and royalty collection. While this offers full ownership, it requires more effort on the part of the author to set up payment processes and track their earnings. The lack of explicit details on payout schedules means authors need to consult directly with Scribe to understand how often they will receive payments.
In summary, Bookemon is more convenient for authors looking for a simple, user-managed royalty system, while Scribe offers full control and ownership but requires authors to handle the complexities of distribution and payout on their own.
Marketing Services
Marketing is a critical aspect of book publishing, especially for self-published authors who often struggle with visibility. Bookemon and Scribe both offer marketing support, but their approaches and the level of assistance they provide differ significantly.
Bookemon offers basic, budget-friendly marketing tools focused on social media integration and self-promotion. Authors can leverage features like book badges, embedded widgets for personal websites, and social sharing options on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Additionally, Bookemon encourages authors to create promotional videos that can be shared on YouTube and TikTok.
However, the responsibility largely falls on the author to drive their book’s visibility. While these tools are helpful for entry-level promotion, they may not be sufficient for authors looking to reach a larger audience. Marketing services are included in the Creative Author Press (CAP) package but are limited in scope and require significant effort from the author to maximize their effectiveness.
In contrast, Scribe offers a more comprehensive but costly marketing service tailored to professionals who are serious about reaching a wider audience. Their marketing support includes Amazon bestseller campaigns, content publication, and a network playbook designed to strategically position books in the marketplace. Authors receive a professional marketing consultation and access to courses and resources to boost their book’s reach.
However, these services are not included in the standard publishing packages and require an additional investment, starting at around $9,000. While this may be a significant expense, it can be highly effective for non-fiction authors looking to establish authority and maximize their book’s impact.
In summary, Bookemon provides basic marketing tools suitable for authors with limited budgets and those comfortable with self-promotion. Scribe, on the other hand, offers a full-service marketing solution that, while expensive, significantly eases the promotional burden for authors who can afford it. Thus, for authors who need extensive marketing support and are willing to invest in it, Scribe is the better option. For those who prefer a cost-effective, do-it-yourself approach, Bookemon is a more accessible choice.
POD & Distribution
The Print-On-Demand (POD) and distribution services offered by Bookemon and Scribe reflect their distinct approaches to self-publishing, targeting different types of authors with varying needs.
Bookemon excels in providing a print-on-demand (POD) service that allows authors to print both softcover and hardcover books without requiring an upfront inventory investment. This flexible approach is perfect for independent authors who want to avoid the financial risk of ordering large print runs. Once an author completes their book, they can make it available for purchase on Amazon and Bookemon’s online store, with the CAP package priced at $99. However, Bookemon’s distribution reach is relatively limited to its own platform and Amazon, making it ideal for authors who prioritize affordability and simplicity but may not need extensive global distribution.
On the other hand, Scribe takes a more hands-off approach to distribution and does not directly offer POD services. Instead, they focus on high-quality print runs with an emphasis on hardcover and softcover formats. Authors working with Scribe receive help in setting up distribution channels, but they are responsible for finding and managing their own distributors, which can include Amazon, IngramSpark, or other platforms. This service is included in their high-end packages, which start at $18,000, making it a suitable choice for authors willing to invest in producing a polished, high-quality book. However, this also means that authors need to put in additional effort to manage their distribution network.
In summary, Bookemon is an excellent option for authors who want an easy, affordable way to publish and distribute their books through POD, particularly if they are looking for a streamlined approach. Scribe, however, is better suited for authors who prioritize professional quality and are willing to take on the responsibility of managing distribution themselves in exchange for full ownership and control. While Scribe offers extensive support for book production, distribution is not their primary focus, contrasting with Bookemon’s emphasis on simple, accessible POD and online sales.
Support Services
Author support is a crucial factor when choosing a self-publishing platform, and Bookemon and Scribe offer distinctly different levels of assistance.
Bookemon is designed for authors who are comfortable with a do-it-yourself approach. The platform provides online resources, such as guides, FAQs, and video tutorials, to help authors navigate the book creation process. However, it does not offer personalized support or dedicated publishing consultants. Bookemon’s support is best suited for independent, self-directed authors who are comfortable using online resources to solve problems as they arise.
In contrast, Scribe takes a much more hands-on, high-touch approach to support. Each author is assigned a dedicated team, including a publishing manager, professional writer, creative director, and marketing consultant. The comprehensive support is included in Scribe’s premium packages, which start at $18,000. This high level of assistance is ideal for busy professionals who want to publish a high-quality book but lack the time or expertise to handle the intricacies of self-publishing themselves.
In summary, Bookemon offers limited, self-service support, making it suitable for budget-conscious authors who prefer a DIY experience. Scribe, on the other hand, provides extensive, personalized support with dedicated staff, making it a better fit for authors who are willing to invest in a fully managed publishing process.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
Customer reviews and ratings provide valuable insights into the experiences of authors using self-publishing platforms like Bookemon and Scribe.
Bookemon has garnered positive feedback for its user-friendly interface and affordability. On Trustpilot, Bookemon holds an ‘Excellent’ 4.6-star rating based on 1,339 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction. Users appreciate the platform’s intuitive design tools and the ability to create and publish books without significant financial investment. However, some reviews mention limitations in marketing support and advanced editorial services, suggesting that while Bookemon is excellent for straightforward publishing needs, it may not suffice for authors seeking comprehensive services.
Scribe, on the other hand, has received mixed reviews. On Glassdoor, Scribe Media has an overall rating of 2.8 out of 5, based on over 130 reviews, with 43% of employees recommending it to a friend. While some authors praise Scribe for its professional approach and high-quality output, others express concerns about the high costs and the company’s operational challenges. Notably, in May 2023, Scribe Media unexpectedly laid off 90 employees and halted operations, leading to confusion and uncertainty among clients. This event has impacted customer trust and raised questions about the company’s stability.
In summary, Bookemon is well-regarded for its accessibility and ease of use, making it a popular choice among self-publishing authors. Scribe, while offering premium services, has faced recent operational challenges that have affected customer confidence. Authors should consider these factors and recent developments when choosing a platform that aligns with their publishing goals and budget.
Bookemon vs. Scribe: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Bookemon and Scribe depends on your specific publishing needs, budget, and experience level, as these two platforms cater to very different types of authors.
Bookemon is ideal for first-time authors, educators, and budget-conscious writers looking for an easy, affordable way to self-publish. It offers a user-friendly platform with print-on-demand (POD) services, basic marketing tools, and a $99 Creative Author Press (CAP) package that includes ISBN assignment and Amazon distribution. If you’re new to publishing or have a smaller budget, Bookemon’s straightforward, DIY approach is perfect for getting your book out quickly without breaking the bank. However, its limited marketing support means authors will need to handle much of the promotion on their own.
In contrast, Scribe is best suited for non-fiction authors, entrepreneurs, and professionals who are willing to invest in a high-quality, full-service publishing experience. With packages starting at $18,000, Scribe provides a dedicated team that includes editors, designers, and marketing experts to guide you through every step of the process. If you’re looking for extensive marketing support, high-end book design, and personalized assistance, Scribe is the better choice, especially if your goal is to establish authority and reach a wide audience. However, it’s a significant financial commitment and best suited for those who prioritize quality over cost.
In summary, choose Bookemon if you’re a first-time author wanting an affordable, DIY publishing process. Opt for Scribe if you’re a professional looking for comprehensive support and extensive marketing services. Either way, your publishing journey is your own and will be a success if navigated with caution and care.
For a deeper dive into Bookemon and Scribe, read our in-depth reviews of each of them on Top10. For more specific information, visit their respective websites: Bookemon.com and ScribeMedia.com.