It seems that even successful authors are not immune to the threat of scammers attempting to profit off their hard work. Savannah Guthrie, the well-known “Today” anchor, recently released a new faith-based book titled “Mostly What God Does.” The book was an instant hit, selling out as soon as it hit the shelves and even causing Amazon’s “buy” button to crash. However, with this success came the unwanted attention of scammers looking to cash in on Guthrie’s popularity.
Reports have surfaced of scammers trying to sell imitation copies and workbooks of Guthrie’s book, despite the fact that the authentic version is currently unavailable on Amazon. Guthrie herself was shocked when her mother informed her of the fake copies being circulated. These scammers are preying on unsuspecting readers who may be eager to get their hands on Guthrie’s book, only to be duped by counterfeit versions.
Damon Reiss, Guthrie’s publisher at Harper Collins’ imprint W Publishing Group, acknowledged that it is not uncommon for fake copies to appear after a book skyrockets to the top of the charts. He expressed his delight at the quick sales of Guthrie’s book but also warned readers to be cautious of counterfeit versions being marketed by third-party sellers. Despite efforts to have the fake workbooks removed from Amazon, the threat of scammers still looms large.
Despite the unfortunate situation with scammers, Guthrie’s book launch was still cause for celebration among her colleagues and friends. A party was thrown in her honor at Peoplehood in New York City, where she was surrounded by fellow NBC News personalities and media figures. The outpouring of love and support for Guthrie’s foray into faith-based writing was palpable, with speeches and well-wishes abounding.
The ordeal with scammers serves as a cautionary tale for authors and readers alike. It highlights the importance of vigilance when purchasing books online, especially when dealing with popular titles that may be targeted by fraudsters. Authors like Savannah Guthrie work hard to share their stories and messages with the world, and it is disheartening to see their efforts undermined by those seeking to make a quick buck through deceitful means.
The rise of counterfeit books and scams in the literary world is a troubling trend that must be addressed. Authors, publishers, and readers must work together to combat this threat and ensure that genuine works are protected. As Savannah Guthrie continues to bask in the success of her latest book, let us hope that she can do so without the shadow of scammers looming over her accomplishment.