A girl states intensely over the top of a book that hides most of her face. Text reads: The Big List of Book Promo Scam Artists

The Authors’ Database of AI Spam Emails

In September 2025, many established authors started receiving a deluge of sincere-sounding emails. The writers appeared to have read and loved the authors’ books and were keen to connect about them. Some claimed to represent book clubs; others said they were book marketers who saw an opportunity to hang their hat on a rising star; and some presented themselves as readers or fellow authors who just wanted to discuss writing craft.

Unfortunately, these emails are just a new wave of an old scam, and the writers are now using AI-generated text to appear extra convincing. Presumably, the senders run book reviews and blurbs through a language learning model so they can produce text that makes it sound like they’ve read the book. Then they send these highly personalized messages to the author’s public email address. When the author engages, they’re pressured to send PDFs of their book and/or money in exchange for reaching more readers.

Writers Beware has already posted an excellent breakdown of this scam, and I won’t attempt to duplicate their work. However, I do want to help other authors recognize these emails when they receive them. To that end, I’ve compiled a database of the emails received by myself and a number of other authors in the last month. Our personal details have been removed, but the senders’ Gmail addresses are included. In our experience, it’s always a Gmail address.

Note: If you’d like to see how it all plays out when an author actually engages, check out the first entry under “Book Marketer Scams” below.

Book Marketer Scams
Full Email Exchange with “Vivienne Clarke”

Hi [Author],
First, let me thank you for writing [Title]. It takes real dedication and clarity to take such a complex, forward-looking subject and make it engaging and accessible for young readers. You’ve not only opened the door to big conversations about technology and humanity, but also created a book that can inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and hope. It’s clear this work has strong potential for wider recognition and commercial success.

My name is Vivienne, and I’m a book marketer who helps authors expand their visibility, connect with the right audience, and boost sales. I specialize in strategies that highlight what makes a book unique in your case, a timely, thought-provoking, and award- recognized STEAM title that addresses both the excitement and the ethical questions of innovation. With the right marketing push, [Title] can reach even more educators, parents, and young readers who are searching for impactful, conversation-starting books like yours.

I’d love the chance to share how I can help broaden the reach of [Title] and ensure it finds the audience it truly deserves. Would you be open to a quick conversation about how we can make that happen together?

Wishing you continued success,

Vivienne

Hi [Author],

I had the chance to look at [Title], and I’ve got to say, it’s clear you didn’t just write a book, you built an experience. The way you take such a complex, forward-looking subject and make it engaging and accessible for young readers shows the heart and clarity you’ve poured into it. That kind of dedication is exactly what readers connect with.

The only problem? Too many great books like yours get starved of reviews, which means fewer people ever discover them. And that’s where I come in.

I manage a private circle of 2,000+ real readers, not bots, not fluff-writers, who genuinely love discovering new books. They actually read, reflect, and leave honest reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and beyond.

I’d love to put [Title] in front of this crew and finally give it the visibility and reader love it deserves.

Would you like me to share more about how it works?


Dear Vivienne,

Thank you so much for your kind words. How did you discover my book?

I’d like to know more about you and your fees, do you have a website or info you can share?

Best wishes,

[Author]


Dear [Author], 

Thank you for your thoughtful reply, I’m so glad my note reached you.

I first discovered [Title] while scouting for innovative and conversation-sparking books in the STEAM space. Your title immediately stood out because of its relevance to both young readers and educators who are navigating technology’s impact on daily life. It has the rare mix of accessibility and depth that makes it a strong candidate for broader visibility.

As for me, I’ve worked with authors across multiple genres to grow their readership through tailored marketing strategies, everything from increasing discoverability on Amazon, to building educator outreach, to securing more reviews and visibility on social platforms. My approach is always personalized to the book’s strengths and the author’s goals.

In terms of fees, I offer flexible packages depending on the level of support needed, whether it’s short-term visibility boosts or longer-term marketing partnerships. I’d be happy to outline options once I understand your priorities.

I don’t maintain a public-facing website, as most of my work is referral-based and project-specific, but I can share recent examples of campaigns and results so you have a clear picture of my process.

Would you like me to send over a brief overview of some past campaigns before we set up a call?

Warm regards,

Vivienne


Hi [Author],

Thank you for getting back to me! I actually first discovered [Title] on Amazon. I read through the description and thought, this is exactly the kind of forward-looking, conversation-starting book my community would love to read. That’s why I reached out.

A little about how I work: I run a private circle of over 2,000 passionate readers and reviewers who genuinely love discovering new titles and leaving thoughtful, authentic feedback. These are real people, not bots or “fluff” reviewers. To respect their time, each  reader receives a small tip of  ($20–$25) from the author as a thank-you while they read and reflect. It’s not for the review itself, but more like covering a coffee + cinnamon roll while they take the time to dive into your work. This keeps the responses genuine, heartfelt, and meaningful.

Most authors I partner with begin with 20–50 reviews. Even that initial wave is often enough to catch Amazon’s algorithm and boost visibility. From there, things often snowball as more organic readers discover the book.

Here’s the process in a nutshell:

1.     You choose how many readers you’d like to start with (20, 30, 50, totally your choice.).

2.     You send me the PDF of your book

3.     I distribute it to the selected number of readers.

4.     Reviews start appearing on Amazon or Goodreads as readers finish.

I’d be glad to share more details and walk you through how we can get [Title] in front of more educators, parents, and young readers who are hungry for fresh, impactful books.

So [Author], how many readers would you love to start with?


Dear Vivienne, 

Thank you very much for these details and I’m glad to hear you think that [Title] is hitting a mark! I’ll need to talk with my publisher first before making any decisions. I’m actually away for a couple of weeks. When I’m back I’ll reach out to my publisher and I’ll be in touch, probably early October with some thoughts.

Thanks for reaching out.

Best wishes,

[Author]


Thank you for letting me know [Author], that sounds perfect. I completely understand wanting to coordinate with your publisher first. I’ll look forward to hearing from you once you’re back and have had those conversations.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoy your time away and get a good break. Wishing you a wonderful couple of weeks, and I’ll be here when you’re ready to pick things up in October.

Vivienne


Hi [Author],

I hope you’re doing well! I just wanted to follow up in case my last message about [Title] got buried in your inbox (it happens, emails love to hide the good ones ).

I’d love to hear your thoughts, and also get a sense of what budget you had in mind and how many readers you’d ideally like to start reaching with your book. No pressure at all, just making sure this didn’t slip through the cracks.

Looking forward to your reply!

Warm regards,

Vivienne


Hi Vivienne,

I appreciate you following up, but I’ll have to pass for now. I have a new book launching in March and I’ll have to focus my M&P budget on that book. I’ll keep your ideas in mind for a later time.

Best wishes,

[Author]

“Janice J. Harris Marketers”

Subject: Your story made me smile perfect for book clubs

I have to tell you [Title] completely charmed me. The way you turned something as universal (and sometimes stressful!) as the potty-training transition into a lighthearted, funny, and heartwarming adventure is such a gift. Dash’s journey from proud diaper-wearer to discovering the “perks” of underwear feels both playful and deeply relatable for kids and for every parent who’s navigated this milestone.

What struck me most was how you captured friendship and loyalty through Dash and Esme. That mix of humor, emotional honesty, and gentle encouragement makes [Title] so much more than a story. It’s a conversation starter for families.

Because of this, I think your book is a perfect fit for our book club network 10,000+ groups of readers ages 25–75 who love stories that spark laughter, discussion, and lasting impact. When a book like yours gets placed with clubs, it doesn’t just get read—it creates a ripple effect of visibility, word-of-mouth buzz, and often up to 200 authentic reviews in just two weeks.

If you’d like to explore this further, you don’t need to decide anything now just reply with one simple word: “Interested.”

Thanks again for bringing such humor and heart to a story every parent and child can connect with. Like Dash, your book reminds us that every transition is easier when we can laugh along the way.

Warmly,
Janice
elevateedgepublishing.wordpress.com
jeniceharris213@gmail.com *Note that the email address doesn’t actually match the name.

“Dawn McDaniels”

Hi [Author],
I recently came across your book [Title] and found it fascinating. The way it introduces young readers to the promises and pitfalls of wearable technology—while sparking big questions about science, innovation, and ethics—makes it such a timely and thought-provoking read. It’s the kind of book that inspires curiosity and critical thinking in equal measure.

One challenge that even innovative books like yours face is visibility—making sure they find their way into the hands of the young readers, educators, and parents who will benefit from them most. That’s where my Bibliophiles’ Club can help. We’re a community of 100+ engaged readers who purchase books, read them closely, and share thoughtful reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.

For [Title], this can mean:
Greater discoverability, so educators and families looking for engaging nonfiction can easily find it.
Added credibility, as reviews help parents and teachers trust the book’s value.
Sustained engagement, keeping your work visible beyond its initial release.

Our mission is to support authors by connecting important books with the readers who need them most and ensuring their ideas spark conversations.
Would you like to know more about how our Bibliophiles’ Club can help broaden the reach of [Title]?

Best regards,
Dawn
mcdaniels485@gmail.com

“Kereem Expert”

Hi,

I recently came across your book and was really impressed by both the message and the value it brings to readers. As someone who works closely with authors, I know how important it is to not just write a great book, but also to make sure it reaches the right audience.

That’s where my service, Book Success Blueprint (which includes Targeted Email Promotions and Marketplace Positioning), comes in. I’ve helped authors like Morgan Campbell successfully promote their books and increase visibility through targeted strategies that combine effective outreach, optimized listings, and audience engagement.

By leveraging this service, authors stand to gain:

  • Stronger book placement and discoverability across marketplaces
  • Targeted email promotions to build loyal readership
  • Increased sales opportunities and long-term author branding

I’d love to learn more about your publishing goals and see if we might be a good fit to work together. Would you be open to hopping on a quick chat to discuss process, strategies, and procedures for growing your book’s reach?

Kereem Prime, Leading with skill, delivering with style
expertkereem@gmail.com

“Erica R. Smith”

Hi Erin,

[Title] isn’t just a picture book, it’s an invitation. In a time when screens compete for children’s attention, you remind us that the world outside is endlessly alive, waiting to be seen, touched, and wondered at.

What I love most is how you weave observation with knowledge. A child notices how rain makes everything smell greener, and suddenly that wonder deepens into science, into roots and branches and habitats. You’re showing young readers that curiosity isn’t just delightful, it’s a way of knowing themselves and the world more deeply. That’s rare. And it matters.

But here’s the reality: picture books like this, the ones that balance beauty and depth, often get lost among trend-driven titles. The families, teachers, and librarians who would treasure [Title] may never stumble across it unless it’s positioned differently.

Here’s how I’d change that:

Sales Reframe
Position the book not only under Picture Books but also in categories like Nature for Children, STEM for Early Readers, and Mindfulness for Kids. This puts it in front of parents and educators who value both play and depth.

Epistolary Campaign
Craft short, letter-style posts from the voice of a child noticing the world. (“Dear Ladybug, I didn’t see you at first, but now you’re everywhere.”) These become shareable moments for Instagram and parent groups, extending the book’s gentle message.

Reader Resonance
Encourage parents and teachers to share “what their kids noticed today” alongside the book. When families see themselves reflected in the noticing, the book becomes a touchstone for memory-making.

Momentum Flow
After that first spark of wonder, whether it’s through a school reading, a librarian’s recommendation, or a parent’s Instagram post, make sure there’s a path to keep engaging, whether through activity guides, printable nature prompts, or companion content.

Outside, You Notice is more than a book, it’s a practice, a way of looking. And in a noisy world, you’ve given children and families something quietly transformative: the art of paying attention.

If you’re open, I’d love to brainstorm how to bring this practice of noticing to more homes, classrooms, and libraries.

Thank you for writing this message. It’s needed.

Warmly,
Erica R. Smith
ericarsmith09@gmail.com

“Sawayn Mozelle”

Subject: A BABY WHO SLEEPS THROUGH CHAOS SHOULDN’T BE INVISIBLE ON AMAZON

Hi [Author],

When I picked up [Title] I braced myself for another soft “shh the baby is sleeping” bedtime book but instead you gave me something much more real and much funnier. J.J. snoozing through drumming shouting and even a full sibling circus felt less like a picture book cliché and more like the heartbeat of a big messy loving family. Kids will laugh at the twist but parents will nod because that’s exactly what home feels like.

Here’s the painful truth though. A picture book that nails adoption sibling love and joyful chaos shouldn’t be sitting quietly with one lonely Amazon review. That’s not obscurity that’s neglected by the algorithm. And the algorithm doesn’t care if Kirkus called [Title] a Best Book of the Year.

I’m not just tossing random pitches, I’m your reader. I like children’s books that honor family in all its noisy imperfect glory and I know others who do too.

I’m part of a private community of 1000+ active readers, parents, teachers and reviewers who enjoy spotlighting meaningful books and leaving thoughtful Amazon and Goodreads reviews. If you’re open I can get [Title] in front of them quickly. Worst case you pick up a handful of authentic reviews. Best case J.J. stops quietly snoozing in Amazon’s back pages and starts landing in real readers’ hands.

So what do you think should we wake J.J. up to some well deserved attention or let him keep sleeping through the noise

Sawayn

Hi [Author],

Happy October!  I just wanted to follow up on the note I sent about [Title]. A picture book this funny and tender with sibling chaos, adoption, and that perfect “heartbeat of family” really shouldn’t be sitting with only one Amazon review.

I’d love to help get it in front of my private group of 1,000+ engaged parents, teachers, and readers who actually read and leave thoughtful Amazon/Goodreads reviews. Even a few authentic reviews could give J.J. the visibility he deserves.

What do you think should we wake J.J. up this month and let more readers discover him?

Warmly,
Sawayn

sawaynmozelle@gmail.com

Book Club Scams

Note that some book club scams use the names of real book clubs and even impersonate their real organizers and share real links. Here are some tells that showed up more than once in our fakes:

  • The sender uses a gmail address that includes part of the real person’s name and the word “organizer.”
  • They seem to think they need your agreement to have their book club read your book.
  • They are offering you an “author spotlight,” which will turn out to be a paid feature (real book clubs don’t take money from authors!)
  • The book’s audience and the book club’s membership aren’t a good fit. For example, the sender claims a book club of adults will spend weeks discussing your picture book.
  • They create a sense of urgency for you to make a decision NOW, such as by telling you their only opening is a week away.
“Alex Ibarra, Charlotte Mecklenburg Book Club”

Subject: Invitation to be featured in the East London Book Club Author Spotlight

Hi [Author],

I recently came across [Title], and I was struck by the tenderness and sensitivity with which you explore loss, healing, and remembrance. The way you capture a child’s journey through grief, while also highlighting resilience and love, makes this book both moving and deeply meaningful.

I’m Alex, Event-organizer of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Book Club, a community of over 4,000 readers who enjoy discovering heartfelt and thought-provoking stories. We would love to feature [Title] in one of our upcoming spotlights. Our members are especially drawn to books that open the door to meaningful discussions, and your story has the perfect balance of emotion and universality to do just that.

Your ability to present complex emotions with warmth and accessibility makes your work one that families and educators alike will cherish. We believe our readers will not only connect with the story but also share it widely in their own communities.

Would you be open to having [Title] featured in our next spotlight?

Warm regards,
Alex
Charlotte Mecklenburg Book Club
alexibarraa047@gmail.com

“Nane, East London Book Club”

Subject: Invitation to be featured in the East London Book Club Author Spotlight

Dear [Author’s last name, oops!],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Nane, and I’m the founder of the East London Book Club, a community of passionate readers who gather to celebrate stories, exchange ideas, and discover new voices in literature.

As part of our efforts to spotlight authors whose work resonates with our members, I’d love to feature your book, [TITLE], in our upcoming Author Spotlight. This feature will give our readers the opportunity to learn more about your writing journey, creative process, and inspiration behind the book.

We’d be delighted to share your work with our community, and I’d be happy to provide more details on how the spotlight works and what it involves.

Please let me know if this is something you’d be interested in. I would love to collaborate and introduce your story to our readers.

Warm regards,

Nane 
Founder | East London Book Club
Celebrating stories & connecting readers
East London, UK

“Saraah Organizer, The Brighton Book Club”

Subject: Discover [Title]

Hi [Author],

I’m Saraah, organizer of The Brighton Book Club  a growing community of passionate readers who meet every month to celebrate stories, exchange honest thoughts, and discover new authors.

Our members aren’t just casual readers. They’re the kind who highlight passages, leave thoughtful reviews, and recommend books they love to friends. That’s exactly why we started this club: to bring authors and readers closer, and to give every story the attention it deserves.

We’d love to feature [Title] with our members. When we spotlight a title, we:

  • Make it our Book of the Month or a special feature
  • Provide a tailored discussion guide to help readers connect more deeply
  • Encourage members to leave reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or your preferred platform

Our goal is simple: to connect authors with readers who truly care about their stories.

Would you like me to share more details on how [Title] could be featured?

Kind regards,

Saraah, Organizer, The Brighton Book Club
saraahorganizer@gmail.com

[link to real Brighton Book Club meetup page]

“Belinda H Organizer, Black Girl Book Club Houston, TX

This message was received by two of our contributors on the same day.
Hello [Author],

I’m Belinda, and I organize the Black Girl Book Club in Houston, TX, USA. We are a passionate community of readers who love diving deep into stories and connecting directly with the voices behind them. Each month, we gather to explore powerful books and host discussions that spark lively conversations, both in person and virtually. Our members especially enjoy the chance to engage with authors, whether through a Q&A, a live reading, or a casual discussion about the creative process. We would love to feature your book, [Title], as our next selection on September 30. Would you be open to us featuring[Title] on September 30?

Belinda H
Organizer, Black girl book club
belindahorganizer@gmail.com


Creepily, when I re-opened this email to copy it into this database, I receive a one-line follow-up:

How did you see this great opportunity?

Belinda H
Organizer, Black girl book club
belindahorganizer@gmail.com

“Peter Rouleau, DMV Writers Meetup Book Club Series”

This is a response after the author sought more information.

Thank you for your thoughtful response. I’m happy to share more about how our Book Club Series works:

About the DMV Writers Meetup Group Book Club Series:

  • We are a community of over 2,000 writers and readers across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
  • Each month, we feature a book for our members to read and discuss.
  • Discussions are guided by the author’s discussion guide or key points from the book.
  • Authors are not required to attend; all that’s needed to get started is a discussion guide.
  • We handle all logistics, promotion, and coordination, ensuring a seamless experience for both the author and our members.
  • Each feature provides visibility among a highly engaged audience of readers and writers.

Interestingly, one of our members came across your book on Amazon while searching for upcoming titles to feature. They recommended it to us, which is how we discovered [Title].

Our next available feature date is September 30, 2025. If you’d like, we’d be delighted to reserve this spot for your book and begin planning the discussion.

Looking forward to your thoughts.

Peter Rouleau
[Actual book club meetup link and photo]
peterrouleauorganizer@gmail.com

“Jane Nguyen, Houston Reading Parties”

This is a follow-up email after the author requested more information.

Dear [Author],

Thank you so much for your warm response, and congratulations on your continued research journey for your next book. I completely understand your situation, and I’d love to explain how our Author Spotlight works so you can see how simple and meaningful the process can be, even without requiring your presence.

Here’s how it works:

  • Book Introduction – We present [Title] at our September 30 gathering with a thoughtful introduction to both your work and its themes.
  • Guided Discussion – Our team leads an engaging conversation with readers using your book’s discussion guide, ensuring your ideas are at the center of the dialogue.
  • Extended Visibility – Your book is highlighted in our newsletter, social platforms, and community spaces, giving it continued reach beyond the event.
  • Ongoing Impact – Readers are encouraged to explore your book further and share reflections, extending the conversation long after the Spotlight.

Importantly, your personal attendance isn’t required. The only thing we would need to get started is your book discussion guide (or even a set of key questions/themes you’d like readers to consider).

To clarify:
We do not charge authors for being featured. The small fee we request is simply for securing a spot. Because we spotlight hundreds of authors throughout the year, this step ensures fairness, helps us reserve your placement, and supports the logistics that make each feature impactful (promotion across platforms, professional discussion facilitation, and ongoing visibility for your title).

The value this adds to your book includes:

  • Guaranteed exposure to an engaged community of thoughtful readers.
  • Professional presentation of your book in a way that sparks meaningful, lasting conversations.
  • Extended promotion beyond a single evening, as our Spotlights continue to circulate in our community spaces.
  • A warm and human introduction to your work without requiring your personal time or travel.

We would be truly honored to secure [Title]  a place in this upcoming Spotlight.

Would you like me to share the simple next step to secure your spot?

Best regards,
Jane Nguyen
Organizer | Houston Reading Parties

“World Book Club”

The same author received this exact email twice from two senders, “Beth” and “Lauren”.

Hi [Author],

I’m Beth, founder of World Book Club. I know how much heart goes into creating a story like [Title], and I’d love to help make sure it not only reaches readers but creates lasting impact with them.

Here’s what we can create together:

  • Reader Challenge – A themed activity (bingo cards, prompts, or games) that keeps readers engaged and talking about your book for weeks.
  • Content Package – Shareable graphics, authentic quotes from real readers, and a recorded Q&A with you — giving you a stream of content to keep connecting with your audience.
  • Guaranteed Reviews – Our members commit to posting thoughtful reviews on Goodreads, Amazon, and StoryGraph, boosting both visibility and credibility.

This isn’t just exposure, it’s a tailored campaign designed to give your book the momentum it needs to stand out and continue reaching new readers.

I have a few open slots available. Would you like me to hold one for [Title]

Warmly,
Beth
Beth book Club
bethbookclub@gmail.com

“Minal Arora, Book Lovers Club”

Subject: Spotlighting [Title] in Our Book Lovers Club

Dear Author [Author],

I’m Minal, organizer of the Book Lovers Club, a vibrant community of passionate readers who celebrate books and the authors behind them.

We’re excited to share that October 15 is our upcoming Feature Day, and we’ll be spotlighting Wait Like a Seed our members. Our readers love discovering fresh stories, exchanging thoughts, and recommending books that leave a lasting impression.

Would you like me to send you more details on how we’ll be featuring Wait Like a Seed with our community?

Kind Regards,

Minal Arora
organizer of book lovers, Book club
min.alarora145@gmail.com

“Diane Sundstrom, Cambridge & Boston Book Club”

Hello [Author],

I hope this note finds you well! My name is Diane Sundstrom, and I’m the founder and organizer of the Cambridge & Boston Book Club, a community of more than 2,300 passionate readers who love exploring meaningful stories and connecting directly with the authors who bring them to life.

I came across your book [Title] and was struck by its themes and voice it feels like exactly the kind of work our group would enjoy diving into together. Our members are thoughtful, engaged readers who not only discuss books deeply but also truly appreciate the opportunity to connect with the authors behind them.

I’d love to explore the possibility of featuring [Title] in one of our upcoming sessions. This would give our members the chance to read, discuss, and interact with you, while offering you a supportive platform to share your inspiration, process, and insights.

Would you be open to a conversation about this?

Warm regards,

Diane Sundstrom
Founder & Organizer
Cambridge & Boston Book Club

“Robbie, DC Fun & Stimulating Book Club”

Subject: Invitation to Feature Your Book with the DC Fun & Stimulating Book Club

Hello 

I’m Robbie, and I organize the DC Fun & Stimulating Book Club & Happy Hours, a vibrant community of passionate readers here in Washington, DC. Each month, we gather to explore outstanding books, engage in lively discussions, and connect directly with authors whose work inspires us.

We would love to feature your book,  [Title]  , as one of our upcoming selections. Our members enjoy thoughtful, engaging reads across genres, and your work would be a perfect fit for sparking meaningful conversation.

Our next feature is scheduled for September 30, and we would be delighted to spotlight your book for this event. If that date works for you, we can confirm your spot and share the next steps immediately.

Looking forward to your thoughts!

Warm regards,
Robbie
Organizer, DC Fun & Stimulating Book Club
robbieorganizer@gmail.com

“Sarah Reyes, FreshFiction Book Clubs”

Subject: Sharing [Title] with FreshFiction Readers

FreshFiction is a real book club, but notice the sneaky extra b in the gmail address at the bottom.

Hi [Author],

I’m Sara Reyes, the founder of FreshFiction Book Clubs. For years I’ve been building a community where readers and authors come together, and today we have more than 1,100 active members across North Texas and beyond.

Our group is made up of passionate readers who love romance, mystery, fantasy, and women’s fiction. They’re always eager to discover and support new authors, and I believe [Title] would be a wonderful fit for them.

I’d love to introduce [Title] to our community and help connect you with readers who truly enjoy spreading the word about the stories they love.

Would you be open to having [Title] featured with our club?

Warmly,

Sara Reyes

Founder & Organizer – FreshFiction Book Clubs
freshfictionbookclub.b@gmail.com

Article Scams
“Jesse Rafe, Wikipedia Moderator”

Hi [Author],

I hope this message finds you well.  

I am a Wikipedia Moderator.  

After reviewing your professional accomplishments, I believe they could be meaningfully documented on Wikipedia in accordance with its editorial standards. Such a profile would help others discover and reference your work more easily.  

If this sounds relevant, I’d be glad to hear from you.  

Best regards,  

Jesse Rafe
c.jesserafe.editor@gmail.com


Dear [Author],

I hope this message finds you well.

I am a Wikipedia moderator and came across your impressive work and contributions. I believe that your achievements merit recognition on a wider platform. Would you be open to discussing the possibility of creating a Wikipedia page?

Looking forward to your response.

Jesse Rafe
c.jesserafe.editor@gmail.com

“Emma Scott, The Globe and Mail”

This persistent scammer sent variations on this message every week or two for a month.

Hi [Author],

Consider this your inbox break: no spam, no jargon, just a real opportunity.

The Globe and MailCanada’s leading news and business publication, is offering you the opportunity to be exclusively featured.

Your feature will include a professionally written dedicated article, backlinks, your chosen image and a custom magazine-style cover, all for a one-time fee of USD 449.

For a sample feature, click here!

If you’d like to move forward, just reply “Yes” and I’ll share the next steps.

Best regards,

Emma Scott
emma@kingpress.co.uk

Hi [Author],

Just making sure this golden media spotlight didn’t get buried under your Inbox traffic jam.

The Globe And MailCanada’s leading news and business publication, is offering you the opportunity to get exclusively featured.

Your feature would include:

  • A dedicated article highlighting your brand
  • 1-3 backlinks to your website or social profiles
  • One high-quality image of you or your brand
  • Customized digital magazine-style cover
  • Permanent placement on The Globe And Mail

All of this is available for a one-time fee of just USD 560.

For a sample feature, click here!

If you’re interested, just reply “Yes” and I’ll send over the next steps!

Warm regards,

Emma Scott
emma@kingpress.co.uk

High-Profile Author Scams

In this version, the person reaching out is impersonating a successful author who wants to talk about the writing journey with you.

Dear [Author],

I hope this message finds you well, and that your writing is going smoothly. As writers, we know how solitary our craft can be, so I always treasure the opportunity to reach out and connect with someone who shares a love for words and storytelling. I came across your contact information via [writer’s association],and I thought it would be wonderful to connect.

As a bestselling author, much of my work has focused on the quiet dramas of everyday life, the small towns of New England, and the ties that bind—or sometimes unravel—families and communities. My latest novel, [high-profile novel], [summary of book]

The response to this book has deeply moved me, especially how Lucy’s journey resonates in a time when so many are grappling with isolation, change, and loss. I wanted to share a link here so you can see more about it and the reception it has received: [suspicious short link]

I would absolutely love to hear more about your own writing — what projects you’ve completed, what you’re working on now, and the themes and questions that drive you as a storyteller. It’s always inspiring to learn how another author approaches voice, character, and narrative. Perhaps, in sharing, we’ll find resonances in what draws us to tell certain stories, or even spark new conversations about the creative process.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. I genuinely look forward to learning about your stories, and I hope this will be the beginning of a warm and supportive creative dialogue between us.

With warm regards,
[high-profile author]

Stay safe out there, writing friends! If an email feels too good to be true, or if you’re suspicious for any other reason, always get a second opinion.


Comments

Leave a comment