Greetings,
It took over a week, but Google Play Books has finally removed Emberfall from its sales listings. To say I was thrilled would be an understatement.
Having my work stolen and offered for sale without my permission was a low blow. I was angry, hurt, and frustrated that someone would take advantage of another person's hard work in that way.
When I told my writer friends what had happened, none of them were surprised.
My good friend Patricia A. Jackson, a traditionally published author, has had her work stolen and sold on various websites multiple times. Charlene Newcomb, who publishes through Amazon, has dealt with the same issue. As upsetting as it was to learn, this apparently isn't unusual. It's simply one of the unfortunate realities many authors face.
That said, there is some good news.
Wattpad is an amazing platform. Without it, I never would have written a single story or met so many wonderful people. What many writers don't realize is that the moment you publish your work, it is protected by copyright. Wattpad also provides a record showing when your story was published, which can help prove ownership if someone steals your work.
So please keep an eye on your stories. Check from time to time to make sure your work hasn't appeared somewhere it doesn't belong.
And most importantly, keep writing.
Not because we have to.
Not because someone might try to steal it.
But because we love telling stories.
Much love,
Q
https://www.wattpad.com/story/407366339-emberfall-onc-2026
