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A popularbook revieweronTikTokhas been facingbacklashafter numerousindie authorshave come forward, sharing stories of how she scammed them.
This prompted other authors to come forward with similar anecdotes of how they were Callied.
The BookTok community has since shown these authors support and expressed their anger toward the influencer.
The latter $50 would be paid after the clip was posted.
On August 17, Calli said she would post her clip in three days.
Shortly afterward, Bo called her out and labeled her as a con artist.
Calli offered a refund following the many videos Bo posted.
She couldve just refunded me, sent me an apology, and I would have just taken it down.
Jay Michael Knight, Luke Young, and Krista Swanson were among those who were scammed.
Im a 55-year-old woman who should know better than to allow a 20-something-year-old to take advantage of me.
She mentioned she has never had an author respond like this before.
TheBookTokcommunity has been very vocal about supporting these small-time authors, making videos expressing anger and sympathy.
This is what influencers do, and its not scamming, by the way, she said.
Later on, Calli started gaining more attention for her book content.
One viewer was upset and posted a video, saying, Youre wasting your followers money.
In December of 2023, Calli then posted a review ofA Court of Sugar and Spiceby Rebecca F. Kenney.
Image credits:lexialuvsbooks
Thousands of people on BookTok have offered their sympathies and solutions.
Im a fairly large creator and I have NEVER charged for book reviewers.
Id love to share any books!!
just just reach out.
So sorry this happened to you all, said an influencer.
Another shared a similar sentiment, commenting, Im so sorry that this has happened to you.
like know that Booktok doesnt support people like that.
Others have remained positive and found the silver lining in the situation.
In retrospect, she helped you!
said one user on Jays initial video detailing his experience.
Now were all finding out about you and I doubt we would have if she just reviewed it.
Now she gets karma, and your books blow up!
Totally worth it, thanks calli!
Jay responded, Yes this has been absolutely crazy and incredible.
I never expected this sort of support, I just didnt want anyone else to lose money.
Ty all so much.
Bored Panda has reached out to Calli Hynes for further comment.
The BookTok community has made it clear that they stand with the authors
