I received e-mails from reviewers...these are pay-to-play, right?

[B.A.]

Another warning, If you get calls to help you get your book made into a movie, don't fall for it. It is a scam

Most of these scams for publishing and movie deals are from a company call Author Solutions. Many of those who call you or email you about publishing or movie fall under this company. DO NOT USE THEM. They will charge you a bundle for things that you can do yourself. There are multiple complaints and lawsuits against them from not honoring their contract, refusing to talk to the author, non-payment of royalties, false promises, etc.

Rule of thumb...if a person contacts you, delete, hang up and don't do business with them. Reputable agents or publishing houses are way to busy to contact and unknown and they will NEVER ask you to pay for publishing. They pay you, not the other way around.

[Tomas, Wandering dreamer]

B.A. wrote: "They will charge you a bundle for things that you can do yourself."

Thanks to David Gaughran and his posts, I know about that kind of shady business. What shocked me the most was the actual sum they ask. I can't really imagine someone would pay such an absurd amount. But that's coming from me, living pretty much in Eastern Europe, so it doesn't take much to be an absurd amount.

[B.A.]

Tomas wrote: "B.A. wrote: "They will charge you a bundle for things that you can do yourself."

Thanks to David Gaughran and his posts, I know about that kind of shady business. What shocked me the most was the ..."

Alli has them as do not use and there are tons of companies that fall under the Author Solution company. As one company get's too much heat, they open another one. The costs start at $3000 for a book and $5000 for a movie deal. If you make the mistake and sign their contract, do not expect to get your money back.

[Lyvita]

Thanks for the updates

[Tomas, Wandering dreamer]

B.A. wrote: "The costs start at $3000 for a book and $5000 for a movie deal."

I've seen some of the numbers. Again, I'm shocked to see there may be people who'd be willing to risk that amount of money, considering that paying 300€ for a cover was already big money for me.

And yes, it seems they're making new companies once one is way too known about, so people have to be vigilant and very careful when someone asks them for such money.