I'm Sick of Indie Author Scams.

This week, I got yet another message from someone claiming to have read my book. They went on and on about how “evocative” it was, how “compelled” they felt to reach out… and then addressed me by the wrong name.

I’ve also received a request to include a book of mine in a book club, even though that book hasn’t been in print for over two years.

And the strangest one of all? Someone contacted me claiming they wanted to buy Inkling Creative Strategies.

I’m done. I’m sick of indie author scams.

And I’m not the only one.

If you’ve been getting weird, overly flattering messages from strangers online or offers that feel just a little too good to be true, you’re not imagining things. There’s a whole ecosystem of bad actors targeting indie authors.

And while they might be getting slicker, they’re not smarter than you.

A couple of years ago, I did a post on this topic, but these scams are becoming so frequent and so egregiously bad that I think we need to revisit it.

Let’s talk about what’s going on and what you can do to protect yourself and your writing life.

Scams Are Getting Smarter (But Not Smarter Than You)

Scam messages used to be obvious: weird formatting, broken English, and completely irrelevant requests. But now, they’ve evolved. They use emotionally charged language and just enough detail to sound legit.

They say things like:

• “We loved your book and think it would be perfect for our book club.”

• “Your writing moved us. We want to feature you on our platform.”

• “We’ve been following your work and think it deserves a wider audience.”

They don’t mention the book’s title. They don’t reference anything specific about your story. Sometimes they even get your name wrong—but the flattery is strong enough that it makes you pause.

That’s the point.

These scams prey on the thing so many indie authors want most: to be seen, heard, and valued for their work. But instead of celebrating your writing, they exploit your hope.

Don’t buy the lies. Be discerning. Here’s how to do it.

Why Indie Authors Get Targeted

Here’s the hard truth: indie authors are often doing everything themselves. You’re not just writing the book—you’re editing, designing, publishing, and marketing it. You’re showing up on social media, sending newsletters, and trying to build a platform from scratch.

Scammers know this. They know indie authors are out here hustling. They know you might not have a publicist or team vetting your opportunities.

And most of all, they know that authentic recognition feels rare, so when someone offers it, you’re likely to perk up.

But just because you’re doing this on your own doesn’t mean you’re alone. And it doesn’t mean you have to accept every hand that reaches out to you.

Common Indie Author Scam Red Flags to Watch For

Here are some patterns I’ve seen repeatedly in just the last few months. These are things to be cautious of, even if the message seems professional on the surface.

• Vague praise without specifics. If someone says they loved your “evocative prose” but can’t name a single character or moment from your book, it’s a no.

• Generic titles like “media coordinator” or “editorial assistant” with no link to a verifiable organization.

• Flattery that escalates quickly (“We want to feature you!” “You’re our top pick!” “We’d love to partner with you!”) without anything real to back it up.

• Incorrect details. Your name is spelled wrong (the minute someone sends me a message addressing me as “Morgan,” I hit delete). They misquote your book. Claims about where they “found” your work that don’t make sense (especially if your book has been out of print for years).

  
  

This language might seem sincere, but beware—the bait and switch is lurking beneath the surface. If you follow up, they’ll either ask for money or try to upsell you a “promotional package.”

If it sounds too good to be true, and it came out of nowhere, it probably is.

What You Can Do Instead

You don’t have to live in fear of every message in your inbox. But you do need to develop discernment and boundaries.

Here are a few strategies that have helped my clients—and me—stay grounded in reality and advocate for our work:

• Pause before responding. Scammers thrive on emotional responses. If something makes you feel flattered but a little off, wait 24 hours before replying.

• Ask for specifics. This is, of course, assuming that you even respond, which I wouldn’t recommend. But if their claims seem to narrowly walk that line between reality and fantasy, and you just want to make sure, ask, “What part of the book spoke to you most?” If they can’t answer that question, you’ve got your answer.

• Don’t be afraid to say no. You are not obligated to respond, explain, or entertain shady offers. Hit delete. Block and move on.

• Talk to other writers. Indie authors are a powerful community. Chances are, if someone scams one of us, they’re trying it with others too. Sharing info helps keep all of us safer.

  
  

And if you have been scammed before? You’re not naïve. You’re not foolish. You’re a writer who cares deeply about your work, and someone took advantage of that. The fault is not yours.

You Deserve Better Than This

It’s no wonder authors are tired of this. These scams aren’t just annoying. They’re disrespectful. They cheapen the work that you’ve poured your heart into and try to use your dreams against you.

But here’s what I want you to know: you don’t need to chase random offers from people who can’t even spell your name.

You need a strategy. You need a platform that reflects your voice, your vision, and your values. One that builds genuine connection with real readers—not bots and bait.

That’s exactly what Inkling Author Marketing Studios is for.

Build the Author Platform You Deserve

I help authors create thoughtful, sustainable strategies for sharing their work in ways that are authentic and effective.

I’m not about gimmicks or empty hype. I help you find your audience and engage them with purpose using done-for-you social media content, email marketing, launch team organization, content strategy, and more.

When you work with me, you don’t just get a plan. You get support, clarity, and a partner who’s as invested in your story as you are.

If you’re tired of noise, sick of scams, and ready to market your book without selling your soul, then let’s talk.

Schedule a free 30-minute consultation and find out how Inkling Author Marketing Studios can help you market your book with a message that truly reflects what your work is all about.