Scammers Beware

The great majority, I would say, of writers looking to query agents or publishers have heard of the site/database called “Writer Beware.” Writer Beware for years has been sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. It’s purpose is to expose publishing scams and educate writes on protecting themselves from fraud. To that end, it maintains a large database of literary agents, publishers, editorial services and literary contests they consider questionable.

The good news is that Mystery Writers of America is teaming up with them with a financial grant of $1000 and by sharing their booth at BookExpo and supplying speakers at conferences to talk about fraudulent publishing practices.

This is all good news for writers. And you can read the PRNewswire article for the full announcement.

And if you’ve never heard of Writer Beware, here’s a bit about it:

Writer Beware's efforts are not limited by country or genre. Their website can be used by any writer, regardless of subject, style, genre, or nationality. . .or professional standing. The Writer Beware blog offers up-to-the-minute information on specific scams and schemes, along with advice for writers. And Writer Beware offers free research service for writers with questions about agents, publishers, and others.

Have any of you ever checked the Writer Beware site before querying?

Also, be sure to check out the final post, Giving the Talk, in my Public Speaking for Authors over on The Blood-Red Pencil. You can also go back to review the three posts leading up to today’s:
Tuesday: Organizing Your Talk
Wednesday: Practicing Your Talk
Thursday: Preparing for a Reading