What happens when the scam emails stop looking like scams?

This week we're joined by author Bitty Balducci to talk about the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting indie authors. From fake HarperCollins editors and fraudulent book clubs to AI-generated audiobook narrators and manuscript theft, the stories are far more convincing than most authors realize.

Bitty shares scams she personally encountered, including one that cost her hundreds of dollars and another that nearly led to a major payment to an AI-generated narrator. We also discuss why authors are especially vulnerable, how scammers exploit the publishing industry's learning curve, and why more people aren't talking about these experiences.

If you're querying, self-publishing, marketing a book, or simply trying to navigate the publishing world, this conversation could save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

What is the biggest scam you've encountered as an author—or in life? Let us know in the comments.

Guest: Bitty Balducci

In This Episode

•  The surprisingly sophisticated scams targeting indie authors today 
•  Fake HarperCollins editors, fraudulent book clubs, and manuscript theft attempts 
•  How scammers use real names, real companies, and AI-generated content to appear legitimate 
•  The audiobook narrator scam that nearly cost hundreds of dollars 
•  Why even experienced authors struggle to spot modern publishing scams 
•  The emotional vulnerability scammers exploit in writers and creatives 
•  Red flags to watch for when receiving publishing, marketing, or promotion offers 
•  Why authors don't talk about scams often enough—and why that needs to change 
•  Practical tips for protecting your work, money, and personal information 
•  How the publishing industry could do more to educate and support authors 
•  Why transparency and community may be the best defense against scams