I sent a printed postcard ordering a two-year subscription to Art News in the amount of $68.95. Not having subscribed to the magazine before, and having seen its high quality in stores, I assumed the price was a fair one. I also assumed I was delaing with Art News direct. My mistake.
I sent a check in the amount of $34.48 which, if I remember correctly, was part of the terms i.E. I could pay half, start receiving the magazine, then pay the remainder. This goes back quite a few months but still I have not received a single copy of the magazine. What I have received are dunning notices for the remaining amount.
I attempted to call Publishers Periodical Service twice with the number furnished on the invoice. Both times I called between the indicated office hours and both times received a message saying they were busy and to send an e-mail. I sent the e-mail asking for a full refund, as I did not receive the product that I ordered. A week and a half later I have not received the courtesy of a reply.
In the meantime, just a few days ago, I received an Art News subscription request. The amount they are asking for the magazine is $19.95 for eleven issues AND with a full refund if not satisfied with the product.
I fear I have been duped out of the $35.00 but am relieved that I didn't send them the remaining sum. They appear to be a crooked operation. I thought I was sending a subscription to Art News when in fact I was sending a subscription to a sleazy outfit that preys on the reputation of, in this case, Art News and other magazines, and raises the prices of the magazines to unsuspecting consumers.
My advice to people who receive subscription inquiries is to read the material carefully and then contact the publisher directly to place your order. If we all did this, operations like this couldn't exist.
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