S2 Episode 10: Don't Get Scammed - Red Flags Every Author Needs to Know

$500 to be in an anthology. A publisher asking for money upfront. A book club who wants a fee. Sound fishy? That's because it is.In this episode, Rachel and Nino break down the scammy, sleazy, and straight-up unethical practices happening in the publishing world right now. From co-author schemes that make $20K off aspiring writers to fake agents impersonating real ones, to publishers that aren't really publishers at all—we're exposing it all.Nino kicks things off with a story about a friend who almost paid $500 to be in a cash grab anthology. Rachel shares her ghostwriting nightmare with a company that lied about their credentials. And together, they walk you through the red flags you need to watch for so you don't get taken advantage of.We're covering: how to spot vanity presses, why you should NEVER pay a publisher or agent, the difference between ethical hybrid publishing and scams, how to verify if someone is legit, and newer scams in book clubs and marketing.Your book deserves better than this. Protect your work, protect your wallet, and don't let desperation or imposter syndrome make you vulnerable to these predators.Resources:Writer Beware Blog - https://writerbeware.blog/Absolute Write Forum - https://absolutewrite.com/forums/index.phpFacebook writing groups you belong to💌 Don’t miss a thing: Subscribe and follow Storystruck wherever you listen so you never miss an episode! Be sure to follow us...Rachel's Instagram: bookboundjourneyNeno's Instagram: nenoswritersrebellionJoin the Story Weavers Community: Join hereIf you have a suggestion for an episode, drop it in the comments below or email us at [email protected] to go from draft to done? Visit Rachel's website today for editing services and writing classes https://www.bookboundjourney.com/Want to actually start and finish writing your book (or have someone do it for you)? Check out Neno's book coaching and ghostwriting services at https://www.writersrebellion.com🎵 Music Credits: Special thanks to Michah Silverstein for our beautiful music. If interested in hiring his musical talents, he can be contacted at [email protected]