The author of A Quiet Belief in Angels and a Simple Act of Violence, whose real name is Roger Jon Ellory, apologised for his "lapse of judgment".
This sort of thing makes me really really mad. When there are so many authors out there struggling to get reviewed on Amazon, the fact that a high profile writer feels the need to behave in this way, is totally unacceptable. The article mentions Orlando Figes, the historian, who also posted fraudulent reviews praising himself and dissing other writers. These guys are not on the breadline, they are not struggling with a day job while trying to get published, they are established and, presumably, earning good money so why do they do it? One can only assume they are needy and insecure. Of course they are also cheats and con artists.
I note that Mr Ellory has apologised for his 'lack of judgement'. Well that is a polite way of describing LIES.
I review on Amazon and every word I write is true and real and I am ashamed to be in the company of this man who should know better. Sadly, this publicity will probably sell even more of his books.
