Summary
Scammers impersonating Archewell Productions (in partnership with Netflix) are sending unsolicited Twitter messages to independent authors. The messages flatter the author’s work, claim a specific book has been “selected for consideration for film adaptation,” and instruct the recipient to reply to a non-official email address to receive “next steps.” The tactic aims to generate excitement and move the conversation off-platform.
Scam Type
Impersonation / Fake Film Adaptation Offer
Incident Description
A message circulating on Twitter, attributed to “Danny Simon,” was sent to an author identified as Rae Stonehouse. It praised the author’s writing voice, stated that the book The Covenants Price had been selected for film adaptation consideration by Archewell Productions in partnership with Netflix, and directed the recipient to confirm receipt by emailing archewell@execs.com. The blog post author noted they did not write the book in question. Legitimate production companies do not initiate book-to-film discussions via unsolicited social-media direct messages.
Evidence / Excerpts
Quoted Twitter message:
“Hello Rae Stonehouse
Your writing voice is both engaging and approachable, capturing readers with its authenticity and depth.
We are pleased to inform you that your book ” THE COVENANTS PRICE ” has been selected for consideration for film adaptation by Archewell Productions | In Partnership with Netflix. Congratulations on this exciting achievement and the recognition of your outstanding work.
Kindly confirm receipt of this message by emailing us at
archewell@execs.com
so we may provide you with the next steps in the review and adaptation process.”
Red Flags
- Impersonation of Archewell Productions and Netflix using unofficial channels.
- Use of a generic, non-branded email domain (archewell@execs.com) instead of official Archewell domains.
- Unsolicited outreach via Twitter rather than through literary agents, publishers, or established production contacts.
- Overly flattering, generic language that is not tailored to the specific work.
- Request for an immediate email reply to an unverified address to receive “next steps.”
- No public record of the claimed book title or author in connection with any legitimate adaptation process.
- The sender name “Danny Simon” has no verified affiliation with Archewell or Netflix.
Scammer Method & Tactics
The scammer uses flattery to lower skepticism, creates a sense of prestige and urgency around a purported film deal, and immediately funnels the target into a private email channel controlled by the scammer. This pattern matches documented “Hollywood scam” approaches that later request personal information, processing fees, or other payments.
Risk Level
High
Recommended Action for Authors
- Do not reply to the message or click any links.
- Block and report the Twitter account.
- Independently verify any claim by contacting Archewell Productions or Netflix through their official websites only.
- Search for the book title plus “film adaptation” to confirm there are no legitimate public records.
- Use official channels (literary agents, Publishers Marketplace, QueryTracker) for real opportunities.
- Enable two-factor authentication and monitor accounts if any interaction has already occurred.
- Report the incident to relevant authorities or platforms.
Status (Active / Resolved)
Active
Rae Stonehouse is a Canadian author, publisher, and advocate committed to exposing publishing scams and supporting writers through education and community. As the creator of Authors Against Scammers, Rae provides clear, practical guidance to help writers protect their work, their money, and their peace of mind. His books and resources reflect a lifelong dedication to empowering others through knowledge, clarity, and real‑world experience.
