My Amazon Kindle Author account for self-publishing books has been terminated. Forever. Even though I did nothing wrong, I can never publish my books via Amazon again. This was a stunning blow. I’m baffled and annoyed and upset. My books published through publishing houses are still available via Amazon, but not the ones I Indie Published. They took them down immediately upon coming to their decision. And all my reviews are lost as well. Sucks, but what are you going to do?
First they claimed that I ‘published content that is freely available on the web’, which I most definitely did not. I pleaded my case (I had to do it via email because they do not offer phone support for this situation), but they ‘investigated’ and determined my account could not be reinstated. But when they sent the final death knell email about terminating my account, they accused me of ‘using images to which I do not have the rights.’ Again, a false accusation. I asked them to be specific on what portions were free on the web and/or what images violated guidelines but they told me they replied with: ‘As per our policy, we reserve the right to disclose any type of information we consider sensitive data and we’re unable to elaborate further on specific details regarding our terms and conditions.’ Translation: We refuse to tell you what you did wrong, but you are done.
This has actually happened to many authors. Some who make their living from their Kindle sales. Once they decide to terminate you, it’s nearly impossible, if not definitely impossible, to get your account reinstated.
So…my question to authors…has this happened to you or anyone you know? Tell me your stories.
My question to readers (and authors because you are readers too :D) Where do you buy your eBooks? I know that Kindle pretty much has the monopoly on eBooks, but I just wondered if there are many of you out there who purchase your books from other vendors.
My books are available on all the other vendors…I’d love for you to check them out here: https://aliciadean.com/alicia-dean-books/
Thanks for your time…if you are an author, I pray this never happens to you. It’s hugely disappointing. (I won’t say devastating, because it’s only books, not life or death 😊)
Author Alicia Dean 