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Proven Self-Publishing Roadmap by Veteran Authors Steve Scott & Barrie Davenport
We dove into Authority Pub Academy to see if this comprehensive self-publishing program lives up to its promises. Created by Steve Scott (over 70 published books) and Barrie Davenport (bestselling author, Live Bold and Bloom founder), this course leverages their combined decades of real-world publishing experience.
The curriculum takes you from blank page to published author, covering everything from identifying profitable niches to building a sustainable book business. We found the modular approach particularly effective, with six core modules addressing author mindset, niche selection, writing processes, pre-publishing setup, launch strategies, and advanced marketing tactics.
What sets this apart from typical writing courses? The focus on business building, not just book writing. Guest experts like Mark Dawson and Honoree Corder add specialized insights, extending expertise beyond the core instructors. The program includes video lessons, downloadable templates, and actionable checklists (we appreciated the practical resources for quick implementation).
However, we need to address the elephant in the room: this course appears to be discontinued. While archived materials suggest it delivered substantial value during its active years (2016-2017), prospective students can no longer access it directly. The content leaned heavily toward nonfiction authors, which might disappoint fiction writers seeking craft-specific guidance.
Beginner (No Prior Experience Needed)
moderate Moderate (5–10 Hours/Week)
Self-Paced (Work On Your Own Schedule)
Make Money
Reviews from the course's active period reveal a generally positive reception, with students appreciating the instructors' credibility and comprehensive content. Some experienced authors found portions elementary, but beginners particularly valued the structured approach.
"Steve Scott's publishing track record gave me confidence, and the course delivered practical results."
"Authority Pub Academy is the most comprehensive intro to author platform-building I've seen."
"It covers a ton of ground, but I wish it included more fiction-specific advice."
"Barrie and Steve teach from genuine experience, not theory."
"There's so much info it's almost intimidating. Prepare to invest real time."
Reddit discussions from 2016 showed mixed reactions. One r/selfpublish user commented, "Pretty basic information, could be found for free," while others appreciated the structured approach. The consensus? Good for beginners, potentially redundant for experienced publishers.
Authority Pub Academy earned respect during its run for delivering a thorough, credible self-publishing education. While some found it basic and support options limited, most students valued the comprehensive approach.
The promise to help students "build a profitable, long-term author business" aligned with course content. However, Steve Scott's exceptional success represents an outlier, not typical results. The framework provided legitimate strategies, but individual outcomes varied dramatically based on effort, market timing, and niche selection.
Consistently priced at $597 throughout its run. We found no evidence of manipulative pricing tactics or fake "limited time" offers.
No aggressive upselling reported. The course stood alone without pushing additional high-ticket coaching or services.
While testimonials appeared on sales pages, we couldn't independently verify specific income claims. Steve Scott's own success served as the primary case study, which, while impressive, doesn't guarantee similar results for all students.
Marketing remained realistic for the self-publishing education space. Claims focused on teaching systems rather than promising overnight riches. The $597 price point reflected the comprehensive nature without excessive hype.
Delivered via membership site (likely Teachable or similar). Interface was reportedly clean and functional, though specific platform details remain unclear.
Lifetime access to all materials. Videos streamed online, worksheets and templates downloadable as PDFs. No mobile app available.
Browser-based access worked on mobile devices, though optimized for desktop viewing.
Standard broadband internet, modern web browser, PDF reader
The platform delivered content effectively with reliable access and downloadable resources. While not cutting-edge, it served its purpose without major technical issues. The lifetime access policy added significant value, allowing students to revisit materials as needed. The lack of a dedicated mobile app reflected standard practices for courses launched in 2016.
We found no significant ethical concerns or scam allegations. The main complaint centered on content depth, with some users feeling certain sections covered "basic information" available elsewhere for free.
The course offered a 60-day money-back guarantee. We found no widespread complaints about refund processing or policy violations during its active period.
The sales approach remained transparent throughout its operation. Pricing was clearly stated at $597, with no evidence of fake discounts or pressure tactics. Income claims focused on potential rather than guarantees.
Beyond content depth concerns, no patterns of negative sentiment emerged. Some students wished for more peer interaction opportunities, but this reflected preference rather than deception.
Authority Pub Academy operated with integrity during its lifetime. Marketing remained honest, refund policies were clear, and no major ethical concerns surfaced.
At $597, Authority Pub Academy sat in the high-ticket category for self-publishing courses. For motivated beginners, the comprehensive curriculum and lifetime access justified the investment. The instructor credentials and breadth of coverage delivered more than many cheaper alternatives. However, experienced authors might find limited new insights for the price.
We found Authority Pub Academy to be a legitimate, well-structured self-publishing course that delivered on its core promises during its operational years. Steve Scott and Barrie Davenport brought genuine expertise and created a thorough roadmap for aspiring nonfiction authors.
The strengths? Comprehensive coverage, practical resources, and instructors with proven track records. The weaknesses? Information density that overwhelmed some students, limited direct support, and minimal fiction-specific content.
Most importantly, this course is no longer available. While it earned a solid 7/10 legitimacy score based on historical performance, prospective students must look elsewhere for current self-publishing education. The principles taught remain relevant, but platform-specific tactics would now be outdated.
For those who completed it during 2016-2017, Authority Pub Academy likely provided valuable foundations for building an author business. Today, it serves as a benchmark for what comprehensive self-publishing education should include, even if the specific course itself has passed into history.
At $597, Authority Pub Academy sat in the high-ticket category for self-publishing courses. For motivated beginners, the comprehensive curriculum and lifetime access justified the investment. The instructor credentials and breadth of coverage delivered more than many cheaper alternatives. However, experienced authors might find limited new insights for the price.
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We dove into Authority Pub Academy to see if this comprehensive self-publishing program lives up to its promises. Created by Steve Scott (over 70 publ...
We dove into Authority Pub Academy to see if this comprehensive self-publishing program lives up to its promises. Created by Steve Scott (over 70 publ...
We dove into Authority Pub Academy to see if this comprehensive self-publishing program lives up to its promises. Created by Steve Scott (over 70 publ...
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