Rankin attacks internet review ‘frauds’

Rankin signed an open letter attacking the use of “fake identities” to praise books being sold on the website.

The move comes as crime writer RJ Ellory apologised for a “lapse in judgement” after he was caught raving about his own work and criticising other novelists.

The letter, which was also signed by Val McDermid, Mark Billingham, Jo Nesbo and Lee Child, said it was “likely that other authors are pursuing these underhand tactics as well”.

It continued: “These days, more and more books are bought, sold and recommended online, and the health of this exciting new ecosystem depends entirely on free and honest conversation among readers.”