It was fourth time lucky for local author Jacquie Blackett when she won her case against vanity publishers Serendipity.

The popular health guru took the company to the small claims court for failing to promote or sell her book Holistic Guide to Health and Self-Awareness.

"This is a victory not only for me but for all the other writers out there who have been duped," Jacquie said.

She is one of several authors who contacted this website complaining that Serendipity were all promise and no performance. They claimed the Darlington-based publisher relieved them of large sums of money, along with their manuscripts, but didn't deliver on contractual obligations.

Jacquie, a mother-of-three and former Health Professional of the Year, said: "I hope others learn from my experience. No-one likes going to court, it's a very strenuous thing. I persevered because I know not everyone has my tenacity. Whatever I do, I do wholeheartedly. I expect to be respected, I don't expect people to take advantage of me.

"I was completely oblivious to the way vanity publishers operate. Initially they bombarded me with flattering letters and calls. Until you pay, they're all over you. But once they've got your money, they're not interested.

"Companies like that should be closed down. If I had my way I'd make sure they could never take advantage of vulnerable people again.
"This is going to backfire on them," Jacquie promised: "I will be their nemesis."

She is now printing and publishing her own books. If you would like to buy a copy of the Holistic Guide or her second paperback, 50 Q&A on Family Health and Welfare, visit her website www.jacquelineblackett.com.