A federal grand jury has charged three individuals with orchestrating a publishing and media scam that defrauded more than 800 authors of over $44 million. The case serves as a stark reminder of the legal risks authors face when navigating the publishing world without representation.
The defendants allegedly operated through PageTurner Press and Media LLC, contacting authors directly and falsely claiming their books had been selected by publishers or studios for publication or adaptation. Victims were persuaded to pay upfront fees—including taxes, licensing costs, and transaction charges—in exchange for deals that did not exist. The defendants have been charged with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, as well as money laundering conspiracy. Federal authorities have seized the company’s website as part of the ongoing investigation.
Why Legal Counsel Is Essential for Authors
This case underscores the importance of retaining legal counsel at all stages of the publishing process. Publishing is a contract-based, rights-driven industry, and authors who proceed without legal guidance face increased risk of exploitation, financial loss, and long-term harm to their intellectual property. A literary attorney provides critical support from initial submission through post-publication rights management.
How a Literary Attorney Can Help
Before submission, an attorney reviews your manuscript to ensure it aligns with industry standards and assists in preparing a polished submission package. They carefully examine submission terms to protect your rights and evaluate the legitimacy of agents and publishers. During contract negotiations, attorneys secure fair terms, clarify royalty structures and rights reversion, and help you maintain control over subsidiary rights, such as film and audio adaptations. After publication, they monitor contractual compliance, enforce your rights if violations occur, and provide strategic guidance on licensing opportunities and career development.
Conclusion
The PageTurner case highlights the increasingly sophisticated threats facing authors, particularly those operating without legal counsel. Legal representation is not only protective but also proactive: it positions authors to retain control over their work, avoid harmful agreements, and build sustainable creative careers.
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