Episode 18 - Writer Beware: Victoria Strauss on Publishing’s Dark Side

Over the past several months, I’ve become increasingly aware of a tidal wave of scams targeting writers.  This has come to my attention both personally and professionally: first, through a barrage of various emails with tempting offers for publicity, book sales, and a boost into the authorial limelight that came direct to my email inbox and often seemed, at least on first glance, thoughtfully composed to reflect an understanding (or at least familiarity) with my work; second, through a wide variety of warnings in publications for writers, on the websites of professional organizations including publishers and agencies, and from talking with other writers who I know.  The fact is, writers are being targeted in ways that they never have been before.  Recognizing this, I felt it was extremely important to find a way to offer some guidance and insight about just how writers can keep safe.  Towards that end, the newest episode of Argh! I speak with author Victoria Strauss, co-founder of Writer Beware, about how writers can better protect themselves and navigate these increasingly aggressive scams.  Writer Beware, if you are not familiar, has been around since the nineties, researching and fighting scams in the publishing industry, and Victoria has the insights of a seasoned veteran, including a heavy dose of common sense.  I am especially proud of this podcast and its relevance at this time,  and hope you will take some time to listen.  Even if you are not a writer, so much of what Victoria shared is, I think, quite valuable, not to mention just how interesting and entertaining the conversation itself was.Episode HighlightsCommon publishing scams targeting writersFake marketing and promotion schemesRed flags authors should watch forAdvice for new and emerging writersThe role of Writer Beware in protecting the literary communityIf you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who cares about books, writing, and the published word amongst the publishing world.