This tale isn't a fiction story, it’s completely true and it happened to me. Although this took place many years ago, it’s still happening today. I’m talking about agent/agency scams in the writing business. I lost money but gained real world experience. The people involved are in jail now but this is what they taught me:

1. I found an agent from a friendly and inviting ad in our local paper.

Never do this. I didn’t have a computer at the time and a way to check the credentials of the agent or agency. Now you can do this at any library computer. But, check them out. Don’t rely on Better Business Bureau ratings on their web site—these can be faked. Do an Internet search of the agent or agency using “complaints of” or “scam”.

2. A “Christian” company wouldn’t lie.

I feel this is the worst scam of all—using God to pad your bottom line. They could care less about your story or dealing fairly. In my case, their name, “Helping Hands” and the use of “Christian” principals and comments drew me in. I even got a nice, religious Christmas card from them. Don’t trust them based on feelings--back it up with facts.

3. I believed my story was very good, but he told me it was fabulous!

Yes, flattery can get you anywhere—sometimes, but I really didn’t recognize it as flattery. He absolutely loved my story and encouraged me to write more stories (for a total of 3). I actually thought they were being truthful. It makes me wonder what kind of response I would have gotten if I had submitted my grocery list!

4. Time is of the essence!

A time crunch always works in their favor. I was reticent and he picked up on that and said I was throwing away an opportunity that doesn’t come around every day. He even seemed a bit testy. Take your time, real agents want people to be informed before they sign on the dotted line.

5. Fees—for reading, sending out material, processing, extra services, etc.

It seemed reasonable to pay for sending out material to book editors and publishers. But, this can be abused. Understand what you are expected to pay for and why. Make sure there aren't any hidden fees or required services you don't want. Respectable agents don’t charge upfront fees. Their money should come from commissions on sales, not you.

It took a while to realize these people were actually earning money by scamming people—not through any book deals. They were slick and clever criminals. The best defense against them is a great offense. Ask pointed questions and don’t accept fuzzy or half answers. Who are their authors? Where can I find the books they’ve represented? What kind of books does he/she specialize in? What are their qualifications, education or experience? Do they belong to a professional agent organization? Reputable agents will welcome the questions. Use the painful lessons I learned about agents and you won’t be writing any costly cautionary tales.