Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
The first thing that comes to mind is plagiarism. It hit an author friend of mine as I detailed here. That case was particularly heartbreaking because the plagiarizer also stole a real-life event from a wounded veteran to add to another book she stole.
Rachel did sue, and she won her case, but it was incredibly stressful and expensive. It's not like she will recoup the cost, but I'm glad she persevered. I wish it would be the fear of God into other people doing this. Sadly, it's not.
But there are other unethical practices I've seen like predatory traditional publisher and review bombing to destroy an author, just to name two.
Fortunately, I've had wonderful experiences personally, so I'm grateful for the helpful authors and publishers out there who do it right.
What about you? Have you run into any of the ugly sides of publishing?
I'm glad your friend won her case, but, yes, it's expensive to fight back. I'm glad you've only had good experiences.
ReplyDeleteReview bombing! I forgot about that one. Haters are the worst!
ReplyDeleteGlad she won her case, but wow. That would be awful to go through!
ReplyDelete