Every author loves to hear from their fans. I was therefore flattered to receive the following email which, inexplicably had ended up in my spam folder. I can’t for the life of me imagine why!

“Dear Kevin E. Morris,

I recently discovered your YA thriller, Heightened: Project Evolve, and was impressed by the fast-paced storytelling, compelling worldbuilding, and Kai Chapman’s powerful journey from uncertainty to identity. The balance you’ve struck between action, suspense, and emotional resonance makes this story especially appealing to young adult readers who crave both adventure and self-discovery.”

After the flattery, comes the solicitation of business:

“I also noticed areas where minor refinements in phrasing and structure could strengthen readability and enhance its impact. With the right editing polish and targeted promotional strategies, I believe Heightened: Project Evolve has the potential to stand out in the crowded YA market and secure Top-20 bestseller status on Amazon within its categories …”.

Whilst my name is indeed Kevin Morris, my middle initial is not E, nor have I written a young adult novel entitled “Heightened: Project Evolve”. Methinks that the spammer in question has wasted both their time and mine by firing off the above email.

I doubt the author of the email which, in my opinion, the real Kevin E Morris was fortunate not to have received, has even read the YA work in question. More than likely they read the book blurb and perhaps glanced at a few reviews prior to firing off the email sighted above. Or, perhaps they made use of AI.

I am sure that I am not the only writer whose mailbox has been honoured with such expressions of admiration, followed by a solicitation for money, and I’m sure that I won’t be the last. As is so often said, if something looks too good to be true. The chances are that it is too good to be true!