Terms & Conditions
KingAuthor – Publishing Consultants
Last updated: September 13, 2025
PLEASE READ THESE TERMS & CONDITIONS (“Terms”) CAREFULLY. BY PURCHASING SERVICES OR PRODUCTS FROM KINGAUTHOR (OR BY CLICKING “I AGREE” OR ACCEPTING THESE TERMS AT CHECKOUT), YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS BELOW. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE, DO NOT PURCHASE OR USE OUR SERVICES.
1. Parties, Scope & Acceptance
1.1 These Terms are between you (the “Client”, “you” or “your”) and KingAuthor (“KingAuthor”, “we”, “us”, or “our”), an online international publishing consultancy and digital services provider.
1.2 These Terms govern your purchase of services and digital products (collectively “Services”) from KingAuthor via our website or by contract. These Terms incorporate by reference our Privacy Policy and Refund & Cancellation Policy. Those policies explain how we collect/use personal data and our refund rules; they form part of these Terms.
1.3 By placing an order you confirm that you are legal age, have authority to enter into a contract, and accept these Terms.
2. Definitions
Order — A Client’s purchase of a Service or digital product through our online store or by signed proposal.
Deposit/ Retainer — An advance payment required to secure scheduling or commence work.
Deliverables — Final digital files or materials provided to the Client (e.g., edited manuscripts, eBook files, cover files, formatted interiors).
Work in Progress — Time, drafts, proofs, or preparatory work performed after Order acceptance.
3. Proposals, Orders & Acceptance
3.1 All services sold by proposal or through our online store are subject to these Terms and to any written project proposal or service agreement that we issue and you accept. In the event of conflict, the signed proposal governs, followed by these Terms.
3.2 Unless otherwise stated, an Order becomes binding when:
(a) Client accepts a proposal or clicks to confirm a package in the online store and,
(b) the required deposit is received by KingAuthor in cleared funds.
Work does not commence until the deposit is received (unless otherwise agreed in writing).
4. Advance Deposits & Payment Terms
4.1 Purpose of an Advance Deposit is to secure your booking and begin preparation, KingAuthor requires an advance deposit (sometimes called a retainer or partial payment). This:
(a) Confirms our commitment to allocate resources, schedule work, and reserve time for your project.
(b) Helps cover initial costs we incur (planning, scheduling, initial edits, design mockups, etc.).
(c) Reduces risk for both parties by ensuring mutual commitment.
4.2 The required deposit is typically 30% to 50% of the total project fee, unless otherwise agreed in writing. The deposit must be paid before any work begins, or before certain deliverables are started (whichever comes first). For smaller one-off services (for example: a manuscript assessment, cover design, or single consultation), a smaller flat retainer or full payment may be required up front, as specified in the proposal or package details.
4.3 Accepted payment methods include credit/debit card, PayPal, electronic bank transfer, or other online payment processor as communicated in the proposal. The deposit invoice will typically be issued at proposal approval. Payment is due within 7 (seven) calendar days of invoice date, or another timeframe specified in your proposal. Work does not begin until deposit is paid in full (unless alternative arrangements are agreed in writing).
4.4 Unless otherwise stated in your proposal, advance deposits are non-refundable once work has commenced or preparatory steps have been taken. This protects us against lost time or reserved resources. If you cancel before work begins (and no deliverables or planning work has been done), your deposit may be refunded minus any administrative fee (if applicable). The amount of the fee will be specified in your proposal. For clients who wish to reschedule or reassign their project, unused deposit funds may be credited toward a later project if rebooking occurs within 12 months, subject to agreement and availability.
4.5 Once we begin work (this may include initial consultation deliverables, content review, planning documents, design mockups etc.), that portion of the fee is considered “earned” — the deposit no longer qualifies for refund for that earned portion. If the scope changes significantly by client request (for example, added services, extra revisions, or expanded deliverables), a revised proposal may require an additional advance payment or increased percentage.
4.6 The deposit will be applied toward the final invoice. For example, if your total fee is $3,000 and you paid a 40% deposit ($1,200), the remaining balance will be $1,800, due in accordance with the project’s payment schedule (often upon delivery of final drafts, design, etc.).
4.7 We reserve the right to retain or partially retain deposit funds (or adjust credit) in cases including, but not limited to:
(a) A client materially delays providing required materials or feedback for more than 30 calendar days or beyond mutually agreed deadlines.
(b) Client cancels or abandons the project after work has started.
(c) We discover content is in breach of our policies (illegal content, plagiarism, hate speech, etc.).
(d) Significant scope creep without mutual agreement or additional payment.
In such cases we’ll provide an itemized statement of work completed up to the point of breach or cancellation, and retain the portion of the deposit corresponding to that work.
4.8 Every project proposal or service agreement will clearly state the required deposit amount, payment deadline, whether the deposit is refundable (or partially refundable), and under what conditions.
Clients must explicitly agree (in writing or by electronic acceptance) to the deposit terms before work begins.
4.9 In jurisdictions with consumer protection laws, deposit and advance payment rules may carry extra requirements (e.g. disclosure of rights, cooling-off periods, or restrictions on non-refundability). Where such laws apply, KingAuthor will comply. If local law requires more favorable terms to the client than this policy, the law will govern.
4.10 If you believe the deposit (or portion thereof) was unfairly withheld, please contact info@kingauthorpublishing.com including your order number, proposal copy, and the basis for your claim. We will respond within 5 business days with an evaluation of your request, and either offer partial credit, refund, or justification for non-refund based on completed work. In unresolved cases, mediation or third-party dispute resolution may be offered (as per applicable legal requirement).
4.11 If payment is overdue we may suspend services and withhold Deliverables until payment is made. We may charge interest and collection fees to recover overdue amounts.
5. Digital Delivery & Client Responsibility
5.1 Order Processing:
{a} Instant products: Downloadable files (templates, guides, digital packages) are made available immediately after payment or within 24 hours via email or secure download link.
(b) Custom services: For services such as editing, formatting, consultation packages, or coaching sessions, we provide an estimated delivery timeline as part of your project proposal or order confirmation.
5.2 Delivery Method:
(a) File delivery: Completed files (manuscripts, covers, formatted interiors, eBook files, etc.) are delivered via secure email link, shared folder (Google Drive/Dropbox), or your client portal.
(b) Consultations: Scheduled consultations are conducted online via video conference or call. Links and details are sent by email in advance.
5.3 Timelines are based on the project scope agreed upon during consultation or checkout. If a delay occurs due to circumstances beyond our control (technical issues, illness, force majeure), we will notify you promptly and provide a revised delivery date.
5.4 Client Responsibility:
(a) Correct contact info: Please ensure your email address and contact details are correct at checkout so we can deliver your order without delay.
(b) Download access: You are responsible for downloading and securely storing your delivered files once received.
5.5 If you have not received your files or consultation link within the stated time frame, please check your spam/junk folder first, then contact us at info@kingauthorpublishing.com with your order number. We will resend any missing files or links within 2 business days of notification.
5.6 Because our products are digital and immediately usable, all successfully delivered files are non-refundable once downloaded or received (see our Refund & Cancellation Policy for details). All Deliverables are provided digitally via secure download links, an authenticated client portal, or email. Delivery timelines are provided in each proposal or order confirmation. For immediate-download products (templates, guides), files are available after payment or within 24 hours.
5.7 It is the Client’s responsibility to download and securely store Deliverables upon receipt. We are not responsible for loss of files after successful delivery.
6. Fraud Prevention & Payment Security
KingAuthor is committed to protecting our authors, our business, and the integrity of every transaction. As an online, digital publishing service based in the Caribbean, we operate layered fraud-prevention controls that balance security with a smooth customer experience. This policy explains what we do, how we screen for and respond to suspected fraud, what we expect from customers, and how disputes are handled.
6.1 This policy exists to prevent, detect, and respond to fraud quickly while protecting legitimate customers and complying with applicable Caribbean data-protection and financial rules.
6.2 Our policy protects:
(a) Payment card transactions and billing information.
(b) Customer accounts and authentication credentials.
(c) Manuscripts, deliverables, and project files.
(d) Our systems, reputation, and financial relationships (payment gateway, acquirers).
6.3 We combine automated screening, industry-standard payment controls, manual review, and staff training to prevent fraud.
6.4 KingAuthor handles suspected fraud & incidents by:
(a) Immediate hold: Suspected fraudulent orders are put on hold; digital deliverables are not released until verification.
(b) Customer contact: We will attempt to contact the purchaser (email and phone) to verify identity and transaction intent. Legitimate customers can usually resolve holds quickly by responding and confirming details.
(c) Evidence & escalation: If a claim of fraud persists, we collect and retain evidence (order logs, communication, IP, device fingerprint, proof of delivery) and work with our payment processor and acquiring bank for chargeback representment if appropriate.
(d)Reporting: For confirmed criminal activity (stolen cards, identity theft), we will cooperate with law enforcement and may report incidents to relevant authorities and payment partners.
6.5 KingAuthor handles chargebacks and disputes by:
(a) Contesting invalid chargebacks when justified: KingAuthor maintains records of orders, delivery timestamps, communications, and proof of digital delivery. If a chargeback is illegitimate (e.g., cardholder received the file and then disputes), we will submit evidence to the card issuer for representment.
(b) Customer-first approach for genuine issues: Where a customer has a legitimate complaint (unauthorized charge, non-delivery, or quality issue), we will attempt an amicable resolution, such as reissuing the file, offering remediation, or act in accordance with our Refund & Cancellation Policy where appropriate.
6.6 Because we deliver digital goods, we follow specific protections for virtual-delivery merchants; delay or gate final download until order clears (for flagged transactions), embed non-removable watermarks or low-friction authentication steps for high-value deliverables when appropriate, and maintain clear records showing when files were created, uploaded, and sent to the verified customer.
6.7 Though we are primarily a digital services provider, we watch for AML red flags (suspicious payment patterns, high-value transactions from high-risk jurisdictions, or unusual source-of-funds behavior). Where required by local law or our payment partners, we may request additional identity verification or refuse service pending resolution. We comply with relevant regional guidance and cooperate with authorities when required.
6.8 KingAuthor’s data, logging, and retention practices include:
(a) Comprehensive logs: Transaction, IP, device, and communications logs are stored securely to support investigations and representment.
(b) Retention period: We retain fraud-relevant records for a minimum period needed to defend against disputes and comply with legal obligations (see our Privacy Policy).
6.9 Staff handling payments, support, and account verification receive regular training on fraud indicators, privacy handling, secure data access, and escalation procedures. We enforce least-privilege access and require MFA for admin access.
6.10 We employ TLS/HTTPS for site communications, strong access controls internally, role-based permissions, and maintain logs and monitoring to detect suspicious activity (see our Privacy Policy).
6.11 KingAuthor requires its Clients to:
(a) Keep your account credentials private and enable MFA where available.
(b) Use a card in your name and ensure billing details match the cardholder’s information.
(c) Check bank/ card statements and report suspected unauthorized charges to us and your bank promptly.
(d) Respond to verification emails or calls quickly if your order is flagged (most holds are resolved with simple confirmation).
6.12 If your order is held or declined for suspected fraud and you believe this is an error, email info@kingauthorpublishing.com with subject “Fraud Review — [Order #]” and include identification and order details. We will acknowledge within 2 business days and advise next steps (verification documents, timeline). If you disagree with our final decision, you can request escalation to management and, ultimately, mediation or dispute options with your card issuer as described in our Refund & Cancellation and Privacy policies.
7. Chargebacks, Disputes & Remedies
7.1 If you believe a charge or service issue has occurred, please contact info@kingauthorpublishing.com immediately so we can resolve the issue. We prefer to resolve disputes directly before a formal chargeback is attempted.
7.2 If an issuer files a chargeback, KingAuthor will follow the chargeback handling procedure in our internal policy: we will gather evidence, and submit a representment where appropriate. Clients acknowledge that KingAuthor may contest chargebacks it believes to be invalid.
7.3 Orders placed under review for suspected fraud or disputed payments may not be fulfilled or may be suspended pending resolution. If KingAuthor determines (in its reasonable discretion) that fraud has occurred, KingAuthor may cancel the Order and retain any portion of the deposit corresponding to Work in Progress.
7.4 If a chargeback is resolved against KingAuthor, the Client may remain responsible for the original charge, any chargeback fees, and collection costs. Repeated, abusive or fraudulent disputes may result in legal action.
8. Right to Refuse or Terminate Services
8.1 Refusal of Service. KingAuthor reserves the right to refuse service, cancel Orders, or terminate contracts at any time for any lawful reason, including but not limited to:
(a) Suspected fraud or chargeback risk;
(b) Illegal, unlawful, or harmful content;
(c) Content that promotes violence, hate, child exploitation, or other content that violates our standards;
(d) Abusive or harassing behavior toward staff or;
(e) Breach of these Terms.
8.2 KingAuthor will not create, edit, publish, or assist with content that is illegal, clearly harmful, or that would reasonably expose KingAuthor or its providers to legal liability. We may require a description of manuscript content during onboarding and may decline to work on projects that conflict with our Standards.
8.3 If KingAuthor terminates for cause; outstanding balances due to KingAuthor become immediately payable, and KingAuthor may retain deposits or invoice for Work in Progress. If KingAuthor cancels for its own operational reasons, we will offer a refund or credit in accordance with our Refund & Cancellation Policy.
9. Intellectual Property & Usage Rights
9.1 You represent that you own or have the right to use and provide the materials you submit to KingAuthor and that these materials do not infringe any third-party rights. You grant KingAuthor a non-exclusive, limited license to use your materials solely to perform the Services.
9.2 Subject to full payment of fees, KingAuthor grants you the rights specified in your proposal. KingAuthor retains the right to use templates, working files, general design elements, and methodology not unique to your project.
9.3 Where applicable, KingAuthor retains the right to be identified as the service provider in portfolio materials, unless you request otherwise in writing.
10. Confidentiality & Data Protection
10.1 Each party shall keep confidential the other party’s confidential information and shall not disclose it except as permitted in writing or required by law. Confidential information excludes information that is publicly available or independently developed.
10.2 Processing of personal data is described in our Privacy Policy. KingAuthor will implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect personal data and will comply with applicable regional privacy laws.
11. Warranties, Disclaimers & Limitation of Liability
11.1 Except as expressly set out in these Terms, KingAuthor provides Services “as is” and disclaims all implied warranties to the fullest extent permitted by law. We do not guarantee publication, sales, or royalties, or results from marketing or distribution.
11.2 To the maximum extent permitted by law, KingAuthor’s total aggregate liability for all claims arising from these Terms shall not exceed the total amount paid by the Client to KingAuthor in the 12 months preceding the claim. KingAuthor is not liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, special, or punitive damages. Nothing in these Terms limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence or for fraud.
11.3 The parties’ sole and exclusive remedies are those expressly set out in these Terms (including dispute resolution and refund rules as applicable).
12. Indemnification
12.1 You agree to indemnify, defend and hold KingAuthor harmless from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from your breach of these Terms, your content, or your use of the Services.
13. Dispute Resolution & Governing Law
13.1 If a dispute arises, please contact info@kingauthorpublishing.com so we may attempt to resolve the matter informally.
13.2 These Terms are governed by the laws of the jurisdiction in which KingAuthor is incorporated. If you are located in a jurisdiction with mandatory consumer protections that provide greater rights than these Terms, those mandatory protections will apply to the extent required by law.
13.3 Where local law permits and unless you are a consumer with mandatory protection rights that require otherwise, the parties agree to attempt mediation, and any unresolved dispute may be resolved through arbitration in the incorporation jurisdiction or an agreed location.
14. Changes to Terms
14.1 We may revise these Terms from time to time. Material changes will be posted on our website with a revised “Last updated” date. For ongoing projects, we will notify clients of any material changes and apply terms to new Orders moving forward.
15. Miscellaneous
15.1 If any provision is held invalid, the remainder of these Terms remains in full force and effect.
15.2 You may not assign these Terms without KingAuthor’s prior written consent. KingAuthor may assign by notice.
15.3 These Terms, together with any project proposal, service agreement, and linked policies, constitute the entire agreement between the parties.
16. Contact
Need Help?
Questions, notices, or requests under these Terms should be sent to:
info@kingauthorpublishing.com
KingAuthor – Publishing Consultants


