If you’re a writer with published books, you’ve likely heard of the book marketing grifters that are flooding email, setting up social media accounts to pitch their scams in private messages, and no doubt trying other methods. I have, so far, only had to deal with email and PMs. I’ve just cleared out this morning’s eight pitches, and no doubt this afternoon I’ll be deleting that many again. Just like every day of my life lately. Just to frost the cake, since I maintain two websites, I get each pitch twice, one for each webmaster address.
Today I got the most infuriating pitch of all.
Hello Dear fellow author,
I hope the new year has begun well for you and that you’ve eased back into the rhythm of work with renewed energy.
I recently came across your work and felt compelled to reach out. Your writing carries a voice that feels both genuine and thoughtful, and it’s always a pleasure to discover an author whose words linger long after the page is closed.
One of the things I value most about this writing life is the opportunity to connect with fellow authors and learn what first drew each of us to the page. I’d love to hear, was there a particular moment or story that inspired you to begin writing?
If you’re ever curious to explore some of my work, you can find it here:
https://www.amazon.com/Jeff-VanderMeer/e/B000APJW4UWishing you a creative and fulfilling year ahead. I look forward to hearing from you.
Warm regards,
Jeff Vander Meer[Photo of Jeff was here]
Jeff Vander Meer
NYT bestselling author of Borne and the Southern Reach trilogy (Annihilation). Film adaptations have been optioned by Paramount Pictures. His work has appeared in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, the Guardian, and The Atlantic. Author of Wonder book. He lives in Tallahassee, Florida.
Mr. VanderMeer is a very big deal. He does not have the need or the time to flatter you randomly in email and try to strike up a conversation. Hopefully, he’s not catching flak for something he’s not responsible for doing.
I suggest, as retaliation to these crass impersonators, that you (a) delete the offending email and (b) explore Mr. VanderMeer’s published books and purchase one for your own enjoyment. It’s a win/win.
The “Writer Beware” website has a good article on these scams preying on needy authors. Return of the Nigerian Prince: A New Twist on Book Marketing Scams
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