MY EXPERIENCE WITH A HYBRID PUBLISHER (RVP)

​All of my books are published by a hybrid publisher: Next Chapter. 
They describe themselves and I quote: “Next Chapter is a Rapid Versatile Publisher (RVP) that combines the professionalism and quality of traditional publishing with the creative freedom of independent publishing.”
When they accepted my first novel, I had to wonder if I’d done the right thing to opt for them or to simply self-publish. Thirty-five novels later, all published by Next Chapter or one of their imprints, my answer is a resounding yes, I’m more than satisfied with the treatment I receive. 
But, what is a hybrid publisher? The Intellectual Property Bar Association (UK)’s Hybrid Publisher Criteria includes the following list of expectations, which all hybrid publishers are expected to meet (I quote them):
Define a mission and vision for its publishing program.
Vet submissions.
Commit to truth and transparency in business practices.
Provide a negotiable, easy-to-understand contract for each book published. Publish under its own imprint(s) and ISBNs. 
Publish to industry standards
Ensure editorial, design, and production quality. Pursue and manage a range of publishing rights. Provide distribution services.
Demonstrate respectable sales.
Pay authors a higher-than-standard royalty. 
I am happy to say that my publisher amply meets all these criteria – so thank, you Next chapter’s CEOs. As an author, I’m well aware of the vanity publishers out there. If you are a new writer, beware the sharks! Just use a search engine to find out who they are and avoid them like the plague! Thank you for your kind attention,
John B.