You work hard. You release a book. Then your email is suddenly bombarded. Sadly, not with readers telling you how wonderful your latest efforts are, but with scammers trying to make a quick buck.
That’s what happened to me this month.
The moment my fifth true crime book, Deadly and Feminine, was released, the emails started. I received in excess of five every single day. They all follow the same script.
They start with a complimentary paragraph about the book. It’s clearly AI-written. It’s clearly from someone who has never even opened the book. Then comes the sinister hook: “Your book is going unnoticed, but I can help.”
They offer two distinct paths. Perhaps they would like to use your book for their monthly book club. Or, more commonly, they promise they can help you get reviewers.
Crucially, every offer comes with a price tag.
I was intrigued, so I played a few along. The price tag was bigger than I had even imagined. You pay $300 for twenty reviews from ‘dedicated genuine readers.’ And, of course, every single review is guaranteed positive. For that money, I’d positively review a can of baked beans.
I am actually convinced these twenty ‘genuine’ reviews would all be from one reader—ChatGPT. I have no proof, but I’m betting on it.
Here is the part that boils my blood: some Indie authors will fall for this. They will pay the money. Let me be clear to anyone who would consider it: genuine readers will review your book for nothing if they enjoyed it.
Paying for reviews isn’t just unethical; it violates the terms of service for major retailers like Amazon and can get your book penalised or removed.
Yes, a quick flood of reviews might help in the short term. But the only sustainable way to promote a book is through hard work and engaging with your community.
I am an Indie author. I know how tough it is to get eyes on your book. These people exploit the vulnerability and hope of every author trying to make a living.
Want me to review your book? Then drop me a DM. If it sounds like something I will enjoy, I will gladly review it. All it will cost you is a free copy of the book. I am not alone; there are other people out there who will do the same.
Check out what else I offer in way of support by joining my Book related newsletter.
Do not waste your hard-earned money on these scammers.
Until next Sunday: Find the time, find the words, find the way.
Sam 😊
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self care isn’t selfish it’s necessary
I'm sick of them. Mine all come from Gmail accounts & as soon as I block & delete one, I get a whole load of others the next day! Drives me mad.