I messed up. I joined Booksprout and thought that I could advance my followers and gain reviews. What I found today when I googled my book was the words I slaved over for a year was being passed around on a website for free. And to make matters worse was the selfish people tweeted about the find and shared it. So for all those indie authors out there I sincerely hope that none of you ever feels the heartbreak I have felt today.
You know as an author we aren't trying to get rich, but instead fulfilling a life long dream to write a great novel. It doesn't matter what genre you slipped into, we deserve the respect and recognition because we keep trying to be the best that we can. We pour feelings, tears, anger and disappointment into our characters. And that is not to mention the fear, or the events that has happened in our lives that we hesitate to discuss with our closest relative. But in the power of the written word we can be free. We can express ourselves and release any insecurities we might have. So with a broken heart I write this to you tonight. In our zest to capture the reviews and make those sales for the recognition and even just a damn pat on the back I am afraid I defeated the purpose and it makes me damn mad. Please protect your work.
And on a side note to those good people out there that do an honest thing and accept the free book on Booksprout and take their lovely time to read and leave a review. I truly thank you. Unfortunately, I doubt I will ever use the service again after this. But thank you to the honest people I appreciate your efforts.
Sincerely,
Isabella Harron