Book covers in publishing can be fraught for authors. And by fraught I mean panic inducing. What a publisher thinks and what an author thinks a cover should be are very frequently not the same. And usually, an author is only allowed minimal input on a cover. While this is frustrating as an author, as a graphic designer, I do understand it. Authors get very exacting about their book and want to put every little detail into the cover, which can quickly become fussy and overwrought. Also, an author may not like the graphic trend that is currently selling in their genre. In short, authors are not always the best marketers of their own books. But from the author’s point of view, publishers or the designers may not grasp what the book is about and give it a weirdly off-tone look. Which is why you’ll find authors waiting for their covers to be revealed in nail-biting anticipation. And it’s also why I saw this cover and thought… Oh, thank goodness! The designer completely got my Hawaii Gothic theme. I can’t wait to get this into the hands of readers!
Authors rarely get much input into covers. Sometimes we’ll get only a “right of refusal.” Which means that we only get yes or no—no adjustments. And sometimes that can be used as a threat—if you say no, your book will be delayed. (If you thought publishing wasn’t a cutthroat business, think again.) But working with Varus Publishing has been lovely. They’re very willing to hear feedback and do their best to make adjustments. Getting the right vibe of a book to readers is as important to them as it is to the authors and they have a pretty extensive “discovery” process to attempt to get all the little nuggets of book thoughts, tropes, and vibes from the author to the designer. Which is why I feel that this cover is such a success.
So without further ado, please admire the brand new and fiery Forged in Flame cover!
Ava Flynn never meant to awaken the dragon inside her—until betrayal and a dangerously seductive stranger ignite a power she can no longer deny. When billionaire dragon shifter Dalton Rosetti crashes into her life, their instant, scorching attraction leaves both of them burned by secrets, pride, and a single unforgettable night.
Three years later, Ava is hiding more than a broken heart. She’s raising a fire-breathing daughter while hiding from everyone, including the dragon slayers who murdered her father and want her next. Dalton’s discovery that he has a child changes everything—and he’s determined to protect what’s his, no matter the cost.
With enemies closing in and passion rekindling, Ava and Dalton are forced back together in a deadly game of magic, loyalty, and desire. Forged in Flame is a sizzling paranormal romance of dragonfire, second chances, and a love powerful enough to change destiny.
https://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FiF_insta_Cover-Reveal.jpg10801080Bethany Maineshttps://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Aug2016-Logo-op3-300x69.pngBethany Maines2026-05-16 13:52:182026-05-16 13:57:20Forged in Flame Cover Reveal!
In my 2026 series of paranormal romances, each stand-alone novel is linked through the character of Dante Montanari—a mysterious dragon shifter whose interference in the lives of other characters causes the romances of each book to develop. Ultimately, the plan is to have a book devoted to Dante and his own romance, but that’s currently plotted for book 8, and we’re only on number 2. Usually, when I develop my characters for mysteries and contemporary romance, I only have to worry about the everyday getting to know you stuff—like where a character works, what they’re passionate about, why they keep finding dead bodies—that kind of thing. But with paranormal romance, there is the added layer of world-building, which means I need to decide how dragons and any other fantasy creatures actually function. And then, even worse, I have to abide by those rules (yes, the ones I just invented) in future books.
Playing by the Rules
Once the rules are set, my life is both harder and easier. The more I know about each character, the less I have to think about some of the background noise of setting a scene. And this applies across all genres. In a mystery, if I know that my character doesn’t drink coffee, then I don’t have to think about their order if there’s a scene in a cafe. In a fantasy novel, some things become more complex. For instance, if a shape-shifter changes, do their clothes shift as well? (And we will pause here for you to have this argument amongst yourselves.) I have decided that we cannot have proper werewolf-type transformations without tearing clothes, and have chosen to have clothes NOT transform. But that means that you have to keep track of things like “where did his shoes go” in those scenes. And inevitably, no matter how carefully I establish my rules for this creature or that, I run into a scene where I wish I’d done something else.
Choosing a Course
As it turns out the easiest way to figure out the rules is to do the most horrific of all writerly tasks… write. By writing a character and working through a story, I can stress test my rules and figure out how they apply to the world and other characters. However, since my big dragon character doesn’t have his own story until much later, that left me with specifically dragonish questions that need to be answered NOW. Which is why book 2 of the series focuses on Dante’s nephew – Dalton Rosetti. Dalton and Ava’s romance was the perfect opportunity to find out what makes dragons work and how their world, magic, and culture function. And also, allow me to daydream of a vacation in Hawaii. Because in my world dragons love heat and volcanoes, so of course, they would love Hawaii. This romance was fun to write because (as with all my books) it includes a heavy dose of action and danger and that meant I had to watch Hawaii 5-0 for inspiration. Yes, I know either iteration of the show is ridiculously not true to Hawaii, but the scenery is still great. (I may or may not be referring to Daniel Dae Kim as scenery in this sentence. Language is always open to interpretation.) What do you think? What other Hawaii specific shows should I have added to my “research”?
Forged in Flame
Ava Flynn grew up unaware of her dragon heritage, raised by her human mother and stepfather. That changes when Dante Montanari’s nephew, billionaire dragon Dalton Rosetti, arrives—and sparks ignite. Their one night of passion leaves Ava with a secret baby and a future she must face alone. But when deadly enemies close in, Ava and her child are thrust back into Dalton’s world. To survive, she must decide: can she trust a bond forged in flame? Learn More: bethanymaines.com/catalog/sirena-corbeau/
Interested in being an Advance Reader of Forged in Flame?
ARC readers get a free copy of the book in exchange for leaving a review on one (or more) of the common review sites (Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads).
https://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FiF-promoTitle-Insta.jpg10801080Bethany Maineshttps://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Aug2016-Logo-op3-300x69.pngBethany Maines2026-05-13 05:30:252026-05-14 09:28:41How Does a Dragon Work?
As I note in this month’s newsletter, I may have overcommitted myself a tiny bit this month. Between work, writerly events, taxes, my child’s spring break, work events, and writing itself, I find that I have had to put aside several axillary goals. In fact, I’m reminded of a quote I saw once from Nora Roberts who said something to the effect that some of the balls you are juggling are glass and some are plastic — the trick is to only drop the plastic ones.
Glass doesn’t Spring
The items that I can’t drop are the items with deadlines. Forged in Flame, book 2 of the Montanari Universe series, is out in June. So all the editing associated is at the top of the list. I’m excited for this book as it expands the universe and introduces new characters. Each book is a stand-alone, meaning that you do NOT have to read the first one, but the stories are linked through the character of Dante Montanari. But that means I have to figure out his character without the benefit of having an entire book of him to explore what’s going on with him. There has been lots of ruminating and for the last two weeks, a lot of furiously fast editing, to get everything buttoned down before Forged in Flame goes up for pre-order.
I also can’t drop my mom duties, so those items are at the top of the list. And work has some deadlines that also can’t be moved. So it looks like some late nights for me to make sure that everything gets done.
So which Spring goal is plastic?
My long-term goal of becoming a better watercolorist is definitely something that I can drop for April. On one hand it is a goal that I feel like I have put off for over a decade because of motherhood and focusing on writing, so it feels sad to set aside yet again. But on the other hand, I have made several efforts this last few years and I know I can come back and pursue it more fully this summer when I will be working a little less to be with my kiddo for “Art Fridays.” (She also loves to paint and craft.) When I come back, I’ve got several new paintings planned, including this one of the Vashon Island lighthouse.
Also, on the list of things I will drop like a hot potato are other people’s problems. Do you want me to get you files because you’re going on vacation and you would like them so everything’s tidy for when you get back? Gosh… that just sounds like a you problem. Your vacation is not my emergency.
But as I juggle my way toward May, I know that someday there will be a summer. And hopefully it will be a lot less busy. Now if I could just remember to say no to a few things…
***
Forged in Flame – Releasing June 4
Ava Flynn grew up unaware of her dragon heritage, raised by her human mother and stepfather. That all changes when Dante Montanari’s nephew, billionaire dragon Dalton Rosetti, arrives—and sparks ignite. Their one night of passion leaves Ava with a secret baby and a future she must face alone. But when deadly enemies close in, Ava and her child are thrust back into Dalton’s world. To survive, she must decide: can she trust a bond forged in flame?
Fill out this form with your name and preferred email address and get an email with a download link in May. Advance Readers get an early copy of the book and promise to leave a review on Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon by the first week of publication. (You will get a reminder email with links.) Reviews may be as short as one sentence.
https://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SpringInsta-02.jpg10801081Bethany Maineshttps://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Aug2016-Logo-op3-300x69.pngBethany Maines2026-04-16 13:45:562026-04-16 13:45:56Welcome to Spring
We’re all familiar with spam emails. I doubt there’s an adult in America who hasn’t received an email from someone letting us know that THERE ARE SINGLES LOOKING FOR SEX NEAR YOU. However, since the rise of AI I’ve noticed a shift in my inbox. Gone are the days of Nigerian princes, IRS agents demanding gift cards, and fake invoices for an iPhone you never ordered (Quick! Click on that link!! It’s so, so urgent!). Now I get personalized emails talking about my books in breathless terms and low-key requests to contact them if I’m interested. It’s so clear that someone has had AI scan my website or Amazon page to create personalized content that I can delete the emails without getting through the first paragraph.
Isn’t Personalization Better?
Like a lot of AI slop, personalized spam is not better than good old-fashioned crap. The compliments, syntax, and tone are entirely lacking in authenticity. And while I suppose it’s possible to feel complimented by a machine, the platitudes carry all the heft of Pete Hegseth’s compliments on leadership—I don’t believe them, and they devalue the speaker for their blatant lack of any real knowledge on the subject. And aside from simply sounding implausible and obviously lacking in sincerity, since AI, authors have become a specifically targeted group. Where once we were hard to pin down or gather information on, AI has turned mass data consumption and website scanning into a breeze. The scammers no longer have to put in effort to learn about us or our books and can pump out email after email promising things that authors want (reviews, sales, readers). But that lack of effort shows, and frankly, it’s insulting. Scammers need to do better.
I took a brief poll of the Stiletto Gang, and we all agree that the spam rate increased to a deluge once AI took off. And of course, we’re worried about deleting that one real person who emails, but many of us are deleting as fast as our fingers can click. As Lois Winston said, “I always trash them and empty my trash immediately.” And while we all understand that the end goal is always money, many of us are puzzled by their low-pressure techniques. Why do you want me to tell you where to leave a review? Why are you wasting my time telling me that you love my work, but don’t want to leave a review without permission. No one in the history of reviews has ever had this worry.
So What Does the Spam Look Like?
Here are just a smattering of examples that I and other members of the Stiletto Gang have received:
Example 1: I can help you!
“I recently came across Eye Contact and it’s a gripping contemporary novel that blends science, mystery, and authentic representation. Following Lexi Byrne, a neurodivergent graduate student developing cutting edge bionic eye technology, the story explores her challenges with relationships, friendship, and ethics, all while navigating a high-stakes theft that puts her work and loved ones at risk. With its mix of science driven intrigue, relatable character dynamics, and emotional depth, Eye Contact has strong discovery potential through Goodreads Listopia lists such as Mystery & Thriller, Contemporary Fiction, Science & Technology Fiction, and Neurodivergent Protagonists.”
TRANSLATION: They want me to pay to get my book on a list on Goodreads which is something I can do for free. (And if they made you interested in Eye Contact – you can learn more here: bethanymaines.com/catalog/mystery/)
Example 2: We’re big & famous, so of course we’re emailing YOU!
“At Simon & Schuster, we are committed to publishing fiction that resonates with readers while delivering a strong and memorable narrative experience. Based on what I’ve read, I would be very interested in exploring whether there might be an opportunity to work together.”
“As one of the most influential literary platforms globally, The New York Times Book Review reaches a vast and engaged readership of book lovers, critics, publishers, and industry professionals… If you are interested, kindly respond by [date], and I will provide the next steps and scheduling options.” (Thanks to Judy Penz Sheluk for this gem!)
TRANSLATION: We’re going to ask for money to include you in this very special offer. But pro-tip: Simon & Schuster doesn’t use Yahoo email accounts and the NY Times Book Review doesn’t solicit out of print books or forget to include the [date].
Example 3: Visit Our Book Club for Free!
“How are you doing ? I’m reaching out because of how strongly your book has resonated with readers in our community. As we read and discussed it together, one thing became very clear to us. This is a story that was written to be felt, reflected on, discussed, and shared, not simply read and put aside.”
“Readers will enjoy dissecting the layers of suspense, from the stolen SUV with a dead body to the cache of jewelry and the ongoing threats Anastasia faces, while also appreciating the lighthearted elements that make the series so engaging.” (Kind of makes you want to read the Anastasia Pollack mysteries, doesn’t it? Learn more at LoisWinston.com)
“Based on your catalog, I would be very interested to know which of your books you feel would create the most compelling and thought-provoking discussion among a community of dedicated readers like ours. Would you be open to having one of your preferred titles considered for this upcoming Networx London – Connect & Grow feature and allowing our members to explore and discuss it together?”
TRANSLATION: We failed to realize that we’re emailing about the third book in a mystery series but we’re going to talk about how it’s SO IMPACTFUL and later probably ask you to pay for the venue on a virtual book club.
Example 4: Authors like other authors, right?
“I recently came across your work, and I was really struck by the honesty in your storytelling and the way you blend personal experience with universal truth. As a fellow author, I deeply appreciate writing that challenges and moves readers the way yours does. I just wanted to reach out to say how much I admired your work. It’s inspiring to see writing that’s both fearless and artful.”
TRANSLATION: I’m looking for someone who has too much time on their hands and will email me back which means they’re probably a sucker.
Example 5: Errors Detected!
“I spotted a few issues that could be impacting your website’s performance. I captured screenshots for clarity. Reply “OK – SEND” if you’d like to see them.”
TRANSLATION: We know you’re a creative and don’t know much about websites and we’re depending on that to bilk you out of money (oh, and also… click on this link).
Spam for All
I think for many of us in the writing community, the new downpour of spam is shocking. Perhaps there are other groups who are being similarly targeted now that new tools are available, but this seems like a new development in the scammer landscape. And the truth is that I’m not falling for anymore scams now than I used to, but now I have to have someone blowing smoke up my skirt while I delete them. It’s infuriating. How about you? Are you seeing a new rise in of junk mail and in your inbox? And do you find the insincere adulation as annoying as I do?
https://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/istock-1271491105_1080x1080.jpg10801080Bethany Maineshttps://bethanymaines.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Aug2016-Logo-op3-300x69.pngBethany Maines2026-04-08 05:30:232026-03-31 09:23:15AI Ruined My Spam
Twelve years ago on St. Patrick’s Day, my daughter was born, cursing herself to a lifetime of green birthdays. As my family has a long-tradition of eating corned beef for the holiday (due to my mother being an excellent cook), we have generally rolled my daughter’s birthday into the holiday. However, for the first time this year she suggested that maybe everything didn’t have to be green. Cue horror for the rest of us who want our corned beef with the special sauce. All was saved when we negotiated a separate eating holiday, but that left me and the green dessert I had already picked out in limbo. However, just because my daughter doesn’t want green brownies doesn’t mean that I can’t make and enjoy them.
This year, I’m trying Matcha brownies from Spatula Desserts. And while I enjoyed the recipe, I have to admit the website is upholding the fine tradition of recipe sites and it’s nearly impossible to find just the recipe. So if you want the recipe but don’t want to the work of reading through the ads and life stories, don’t worry… I got you.
Forged in Flame Cover Reveal!
/in Paranormal Romance, Romance, Sirena CorbeauNew Cover Revealed!
Book covers in publishing can be fraught for authors. And by fraught I mean panic inducing. What a publisher thinks and what an author thinks a cover should be are very frequently not the same. And usually, an author is only allowed minimal input on a cover. While this is frustrating as an author, as a graphic designer, I do understand it. Authors get very exacting about their book and want to put every little detail into the cover, which can quickly become fussy and overwrought. Also, an author may not like the graphic trend that is currently selling in their genre. In short, authors are not always the best marketers of their own books. But from the author’s point of view, publishers or the designers may not grasp what the book is about and give it a weirdly off-tone look. Which is why you’ll find authors waiting for their covers to be revealed in nail-biting anticipation. And it’s also why I saw this cover and thought… Oh, thank goodness! The designer completely got my Hawaii Gothic theme. I can’t wait to get this into the hands of readers!
Authors rarely get much input into covers. Sometimes we’ll get only a “right of refusal.” Which means that we only get yes or no—no adjustments. And sometimes that can be used as a threat—if you say no, your book will be delayed. (If you thought publishing wasn’t a cutthroat business, think again.) But working with Varus Publishing has been lovely. They’re very willing to hear feedback and do their best to make adjustments. Getting the right vibe of a book to readers is as important to them as it is to the authors and they have a pretty extensive “discovery” process to attempt to get all the little nuggets of book thoughts, tropes, and vibes from the author to the designer. Which is why I feel that this cover is such a success.
So without further ado, please admire the brand new and fiery Forged in Flame cover!
Forged in Flame Cover!
PRE-ORDER: https://amzn.to/3RJYJk3
RELEASE DATE: June 30th
SIGN UP TO BE AN ADVANCE READER: ARC Form
Forged in Flame:
Ava Flynn never meant to awaken the dragon inside her—until betrayal and a dangerously seductive stranger ignite a power she can no longer deny. When billionaire dragon shifter Dalton Rosetti crashes into her life, their instant, scorching attraction leaves both of them burned by secrets, pride, and a single unforgettable night.
Three years later, Ava is hiding more than a broken heart. She’s raising a fire-breathing daughter while hiding from everyone, including the dragon slayers who murdered her father and want her next. Dalton’s discovery that he has a child changes everything—and he’s determined to protect what’s his, no matter the cost.
With enemies closing in and passion rekindling, Ava and Dalton are forced back together in a deadly game of magic, loyalty, and desire. Forged in Flame is a sizzling paranormal romance of dragonfire, second chances, and a love powerful enough to change destiny.
How Does a Dragon Work?
/in Sirena Corbeau, The Stiletto GangA Working Dragon
In my 2026 series of paranormal romances, each stand-alone novel is linked through the character of Dante Montanari—a mysterious dragon shifter whose interference in the lives of other characters causes the romances of each book to develop. Ultimately, the plan is to have a book devoted to Dante and his own romance, but that’s currently plotted for book 8, and we’re only on number 2. Usually, when I develop my characters for mysteries and contemporary romance, I only have to worry about the everyday getting to know you stuff—like where a character works, what they’re passionate about, why they keep finding dead bodies—that kind of thing. But with paranormal romance, there is the added layer of world-building, which means I need to decide how dragons and any other fantasy creatures actually function. And then, even worse, I have to abide by those rules (yes, the ones I just invented) in future books.
Playing by the Rules
Once the rules are set, my life is both harder and easier. The more I know about each character, the less I have to think about some of the background noise of setting a scene. And this applies across all genres. In a mystery, if I know that my character doesn’t drink coffee, then I don’t have to think about their order if there’s a scene in a cafe. In a fantasy novel, some things become more complex. For instance, if a shape-shifter changes, do their clothes shift as well? (And we will pause here for you to have this argument amongst yourselves.) I have decided that we cannot have proper werewolf-type transformations without tearing clothes, and have chosen to have clothes NOT transform. But that means that you have to keep track of things like “where did his shoes go” in those scenes. And inevitably, no matter how carefully I establish my rules for this creature or that, I run into a scene where I wish I’d done something else.
Choosing a Course
As it turns out the easiest way to figure out the rules is to do the most horrific of all writerly tasks… write. By writing a character and working through a story, I can stress test my rules and figure out how they apply to the world and other characters. However, since my big dragon character doesn’t have his own story until much later, that left me with specifically dragonish questions that need to be answered NOW. Which is why book 2 of the series focuses on Dante’s nephew – Dalton Rosetti. Dalton and Ava’s romance was the perfect opportunity to find out what makes dragons work and how their world, magic, and culture function. And also, allow me to daydream of a vacation in Hawaii. Because in my world dragons love heat and volcanoes, so of course, they would love Hawaii. This romance was fun to write because (as with all my books) it includes a heavy dose of action and danger and that meant I had to watch Hawaii 5-0 for inspiration. Yes, I know either iteration of the show is ridiculously not true to Hawaii, but the scenery is still great. (I may or may not be referring to Daniel Dae Kim as scenery in this sentence. Language is always open to interpretation.) What do you think? What other Hawaii specific shows should I have added to my “research”?
Ava Flynn grew up unaware of her dragon heritage, raised by her human mother and stepfather. That changes when Dante Montanari’s nephew, billionaire dragon Dalton Rosetti, arrives—and sparks ignite. Their one night of passion leaves Ava with a secret baby and a future she must face alone. But when deadly enemies close in, Ava and her child are thrust back into Dalton’s world. To survive, she must decide: can she trust a bond forged in flame? Learn More: bethanymaines.com/catalog/sirena-corbeau/
Interested in being an Advance Reader of Forged in Flame?
Sign up here: ADVANCE READER SIGN UP FORM
ARC readers get a free copy of the book in exchange for leaving a review on one (or more) of the common review sites (Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads).
Welcome to Spring
/in Free Book, Life, Paranormal Romance, Sirena CorbeauSpring . . . ing into Overcommitment
As I note in this month’s newsletter, I may have overcommitted myself a tiny bit this month. Between work, writerly events, taxes, my child’s spring break, work events, and writing itself, I find that I have had to put aside several axillary goals. In fact, I’m reminded of a quote I saw once from Nora Roberts who said something to the effect that some of the balls you are juggling are glass and some are plastic — the trick is to only drop the plastic ones.
Glass doesn’t Spring
The items that I can’t drop are the items with deadlines. Forged in Flame, book 2 of the Montanari Universe series, is out in June. So all the editing associated is at the top of the list. I’m excited for this book as it expands the universe and introduces new characters. Each book is a stand-alone, meaning that you do NOT have to read the first one, but the stories are linked through the character of Dante Montanari. But that means I have to figure out his character without the benefit of having an entire book of him to explore what’s going on with him. There has been lots of ruminating and for the last two weeks, a lot of furiously fast editing, to get everything buttoned down before Forged in Flame goes up for pre-order.
I also can’t drop my mom duties, so those items are at the top of the list. And work has some deadlines that also can’t be moved. So it looks like some late nights for me to make sure that everything gets done.
My long-term goal of becoming a better watercolorist is definitely something that I can drop for April. On one hand it is a goal that I feel like I have put off for over a decade because of motherhood and focusing on writing, so it feels sad to set aside yet again. But on the other hand, I have made several efforts this last few years and I know I can come back and pursue it more fully this summer when I will be working a little less to be with my kiddo for “Art Fridays.” (She also loves to paint and craft.) When I come back, I’ve got several new paintings planned, including this one of the Vashon Island lighthouse.
Also, on the list of things I will drop like a hot potato are other people’s problems. Do you want me to get you files because you’re going on vacation and you would like them so everything’s tidy for when you get back? Gosh… that just sounds like a you problem. Your vacation is not my emergency.
But as I juggle my way toward May, I know that someday there will be a summer. And hopefully it will be a lot less busy. Now if I could just remember to say no to a few things…
***
Ava Flynn grew up unaware of her dragon heritage, raised by her human mother and stepfather. That all changes when Dante Montanari’s nephew, billionaire dragon Dalton Rosetti, arrives—and sparks ignite. Their one night of passion leaves Ava with a secret baby and a future she must face alone. But when deadly enemies close in, Ava and her child are thrust back into Dalton’s world. To survive, she must decide: can she trust a bond forged in flame?
Learn More: https://bethanymaines.com/catalog/sirena-corbeau/
Want to be an Advance Reader for Forged in Flame?
Fill out this form with your name and preferred email address and get an email with a download link in May. Advance Readers get an early copy of the book and promise to leave a review on Goodreads, BookBub, or Amazon by the first week of publication. (You will get a reminder email with links.) Reviews may be as short as one sentence.
AI Ruined My Spam
/in Craft, Life, Marketing, The Stiletto GangWhere Has All the Good Spam Gone?
We’re all familiar with spam emails. I doubt there’s an adult in America who hasn’t received an email from someone letting us know that THERE ARE SINGLES LOOKING FOR SEX NEAR YOU. However, since the rise of AI I’ve noticed a shift in my inbox. Gone are the days of Nigerian princes, IRS agents demanding gift cards, and fake invoices for an iPhone you never ordered (Quick! Click on that link!! It’s so, so urgent!). Now I get personalized emails talking about my books in breathless terms and low-key requests to contact them if I’m interested. It’s so clear that someone has had AI scan my website or Amazon page to create personalized content that I can delete the emails without getting through the first paragraph.
Like a lot of AI slop, personalized spam is not better than good old-fashioned crap. The compliments, syntax, and tone are entirely lacking in authenticity. And while I suppose it’s possible to feel complimented by a machine, the platitudes carry all the heft of Pete Hegseth’s compliments on leadership—I don’t believe them, and they devalue the speaker for their blatant lack of any real knowledge on the subject. And aside from simply sounding implausible and obviously lacking in sincerity, since AI, authors have become a specifically targeted group. Where once we were hard to pin down or gather information on, AI has turned mass data consumption and website scanning into a breeze. The scammers no longer have to put in effort to learn about us or our books and can pump out email after email promising things that authors want (reviews, sales, readers). But that lack of effort shows, and frankly, it’s insulting. Scammers need to do better.
I took a brief poll of the Stiletto Gang, and we all agree that the spam rate increased to a deluge once AI took off. And of course, we’re worried about deleting that one real person who emails, but many of us are deleting as fast as our fingers can click. As Lois Winston said, “I always trash them and empty my trash immediately.” And while we all understand that the end goal is always money, many of us are puzzled by their low-pressure techniques. Why do you want me to tell you where to leave a review? Why are you wasting my time telling me that you love my work, but don’t want to leave a review without permission. No one in the history of reviews has ever had this worry.
So What Does the Spam Look Like?
Here are just a smattering of examples that I and other members of the Stiletto Gang have received:
Example 1: I can help you!
“I recently came across Eye Contact and it’s a gripping contemporary novel that blends science, mystery, and authentic representation. Following Lexi Byrne, a neurodivergent graduate student developing cutting edge bionic eye technology, the story explores her challenges with relationships, friendship, and ethics, all while navigating a high-stakes theft that puts her work and loved ones at risk. With its mix of science driven intrigue, relatable character dynamics, and emotional depth, Eye Contact has strong discovery potential through Goodreads Listopia lists such as Mystery & Thriller, Contemporary Fiction, Science & Technology Fiction, and Neurodivergent Protagonists.”
TRANSLATION: They want me to pay to get my book on a list on Goodreads which is something I can do for free. (And if they made you interested in Eye Contact – you can learn more here: bethanymaines.com/catalog/mystery/)
Example 2: We’re big & famous, so of course we’re emailing YOU!
“At Simon & Schuster, we are committed to publishing fiction that resonates with readers while delivering a strong and memorable narrative experience. Based on what I’ve read, I would be very interested in exploring whether there might be an opportunity to work together.”
“As one of the most influential literary platforms globally, The New York Times Book Review reaches a vast and engaged readership of book lovers, critics, publishers, and industry professionals… If you are interested, kindly respond by [date], and I will provide the next steps and scheduling options.” (Thanks to Judy Penz Sheluk for this gem!)
TRANSLATION: We’re going to ask for money to include you in this very special offer. But pro-tip: Simon & Schuster doesn’t use Yahoo email accounts and the NY Times Book Review doesn’t solicit out of print books or forget to include the [date].
Example 3: Visit Our Book Club for Free!
“How are you doing ? I’m reaching out because of how strongly your book has resonated with readers in our community. As we read and discussed it together, one thing became very clear to us. This is a story that was written to be felt, reflected on, discussed, and shared, not simply read and put aside.”
“Readers will enjoy dissecting the layers of suspense, from the stolen SUV with a dead body to the cache of jewelry and the ongoing threats Anastasia faces, while also appreciating the lighthearted elements that make the series so engaging.” (Kind of makes you want to read the Anastasia Pollack mysteries, doesn’t it? Learn more at LoisWinston.com)
“Based on your catalog, I would be very interested to know which of your books you feel would create the most compelling and thought-provoking discussion among a community of dedicated readers like ours. Would you be open to having one of your preferred titles considered for this upcoming Networx London – Connect & Grow feature and allowing our members to explore and discuss it together?”
TRANSLATION: We failed to realize that we’re emailing about the third book in a mystery series but we’re going to talk about how it’s SO IMPACTFUL and later probably ask you to pay for the venue on a virtual book club.
Example 4: Authors like other authors, right?
“I recently came across your work, and I was really struck by the honesty in your storytelling and the way you blend personal experience with universal truth. As a fellow author, I deeply appreciate writing that challenges and moves readers the way yours does. I just wanted to reach out to say how much I admired your work. It’s inspiring to see writing that’s both fearless and artful.”
TRANSLATION: I’m looking for someone who has too much time on their hands and will email me back which means they’re probably a sucker.
Example 5: Errors Detected!
“I spotted a few issues that could be impacting your website’s performance. I captured screenshots for clarity. Reply “OK – SEND” if you’d like to see them.”
TRANSLATION: We know you’re a creative and don’t know much about websites and we’re depending on that to bilk you out of money (oh, and also… click on this link).
Spam for All
I think for many of us in the writing community, the new downpour of spam is shocking. Perhaps there are other groups who are being similarly targeted now that new tools are available, but this seems like a new development in the scammer landscape. And the truth is that I’m not falling for anymore scams now than I used to, but now I have to have someone blowing smoke up my skirt while I delete them. It’s infuriating. How about you? Are you seeing a new rise in of junk mail and in your inbox? And do you find the insincere adulation as annoying as I do?
St. Patrick’s Day
/in General Writing, LifeThis year, I’m trying Matcha brownies from Spatula Desserts. And while I enjoyed the recipe, I have to admit the website is upholding the fine tradition of recipe sites and it’s nearly impossible to find just the recipe. So if you want the recipe but don’t want to the work of reading through the ads and life stories, don’t worry… I got you.
Download the 7″x5″recipe card here: Matcha Brownies