Last week I mentioned in our newsletter that we’ve received a few AI-generated emails that are probably the most well-written scams I’ve yet encountered. So much so that I actually read the email twice — which has never happened before.
A week later, Midge received an email about one of her books that followed the same pattern.
We’re not alone — which means we’re all vulnerable. So I have included a screen shot of what I received and also outlined the pattern these emails follow:
- They begin with a thoughtful, heartfelt introduction. They will note how special your book is.
- They quote a relevant author that you probably recognize. Something that will make you think: Wow, this is a serious reader.
- They note that your book hasn’t received as many reviews as they think it should.
- Then they offer to share your book with their considerable audience of several thousand readers.
They do not mention any fees (and you can be sure there will be at some point). They also are vague on this community of theirs that somehow has thousands of passionate book readers.
The goal is simply to hook you into responding.
Although the goal of this email is no different than spam I’ve received for decades, the quality of the writing is what makes these emails dangerous. That and the fact that they appear to truly know your work.
So, beware. Many scammers will play a long game before asking for money, and targeting authors who are eager to get new readers is going to pay off for many of them. Keep in mind that while there are legitimate publicity routes to take, they involve the author seeking out these services, not the other way around.
Below is the mail I received for a book I edited.
We authors are vulnerable
As authors, we make ourselves easily contactable. We want to find new readers, and our publishers encourage us to reach out to all book clubs, venues, etc. So when an email like this comes across our inbox, it’s tempting to reply. But if it sounds too good to be true…
John is co-author, with Midge Raymond, of the mystery Devils Island. He is also author of the novels The Tourist Trail and Where Oceans Hide Their Dead. Co-founder of Ashland Creek Press and editor of Writing for Animals (also now a writing program). More at JohnYunker.com.