I was contacted by an unsolicited e-mail to participate in a poetry contest. Directed me to website for details (www.poetry.com) and registration to receive info by mail.
I registered and received the information by mail outlining the poetry contest, submission/review process and publication details for the Poetry Book that was being featured. The book was to include my unpublished poem (IF selected) and an opportunity to also include my bio and the influence behind the poem written. This information was to be provided on the "Artist's Profile" form provided.
Literature was also sent via mail to pre-purchase a hard bound copy of their selected unpublished poems (and I quote) "featuring my poetry on a page to itself at the special pre-publication discount price. I understand that the book will be printed in two colors on fine-milled paper, with a highly ornate and detailed cover."
All this for the mere price of $49.95 for payment in full or to reserve, a deposit of $10.00 was required to reserve one copy. If you wanted your biographical information on a page by itself opposite your poem, it was available for an additional fee of $25.00 per book (available to book buyers only). I purchased & pd. For 1 copy plus postage/handling.
An additional $8.00 per book postage and handling was to be included with additional availability for half and full cases (shipped FedEx) and outside U.S. Required additional fees.
I have attempted to obtain my book or a full refund via e-mail and U.S. Mail and to date, have received no communication whatsoever nor have I received my book.
I actually received additional solicitation paperwork from them in the mail notifying me that "the new unpublished poem that you wil submit will be featured along with..." and says I will be entered into a final competition "but you must send in a new unpublished poem". They then offer a new special edition book for pre-purchase.
In the post script of the "letter" received, it does clearly state (and I quote) "And, if you decide to order or reserve a copy with a small deposit, we are so certain you will love the quality of the edition and the way your poetry is presented that we can proudly offer an unconditional money-back guarantee. If for any reason you are dissatisfied, your money will be promptly refunded."
On that note, as previously stated, I have not only not received my copy of the pre-purchased book but I have not received any money back either. The letter is signed by Howard Ely, Managing Editor.
As a final note, suffice it to say that I am very disappointed and perhaps disenchanted. The entire "experience" was really disappointing and I feel taken advantage of.
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