Over 100 Authors Claim Adelaide Publisher Scammed Them Out of Funds

Taylor Roberts shared her heartbreaking experience of paying $12,000 to publish her book, Finley the Brave, in memory of her late son, who suffered from a rare heart disease. She intended to donate the proceeds to a children's heart charity. Roberts stated, "The most important thing to me was my book. It's not even about the money." However, she discovered that Hou had never formally contracted the illustrator, leaving her manuscript unfinished. "Luke's smooth talking. He promised me that he'll talk to the illustrator... He never had an illustrator in the first place. He gave me a name for an illustrator, and I contacted her, and she never signed the contract," she said.

Dr. Danielle Camer recounted a similar situation where she entrusted Hou with a story meant to honor her late husband's wish for their daughter. After months of silence, she was left without a publication when the book was supposed to be released.

Karyn Miller, a bookstore owner in Queensland, claimed she released two picture books through Starfish Bay but never received any royalties, despite official sales statements being provided. She emphasized that authors from various countries, including the United States, Canada, and Europe, are also experiencing similar issues, such as missing payments or unanswered inquiries.

Many authors remain bound by exclusive contracts with Starfish Bay, making it difficult to self-publish their works or collaborate with other publishers. The company operates from a virtual mail-handling office in Adelaide, and Hou has reportedly not responded to numerous phone calls or written inquiries. Miller urged others not to engage with Starfish Bay Publishing, stating, "Don't hand any money over to Starfish Bay Publishing."