Effective Date: July 29, 2026
Welcome to my website! I take your privacy very seriously. This Privacy Policy explains what information this website collects, how it is used, and how I protect your data—especially if you are a younger reader.
1. A Special Note for Readers Under 13 (COPPA Compliance)
- No Under-13 Data: I do not knowingly collect, request, or store personal information from children under the age of 13.
- Newsletter Sign-Ups: If you are under 13, please do not sign up for my newsletter or send messages through contact forms. Instead, ask a parent or legal guardian to sign up or send a message on your behalf.
- Immediate Deletion: If I discover that I have accidentally collected information from a child under 13, I will delete that information immediately.
2. Information Collected Automatically
Like most websites, this site automatically collects some non-personal information when you visit. This includes:
- Log Data: Your IP address, browser type, and the pages you visit.
- Cookies: Small text files that help the site run smoothly and remember your preferences. You can turn off cookies in your browser settings at any time.
3. Information You Provide Voluntarily
You may choose to share personal information with me in two ways:
- Email Newsletters: If you sign up for my newsletter (and are over 13), I collect your email address and name. I use this exclusively to send you book updates, cover reveals, and fun writing news.
- Contact Forms: If you fill out a contact form or email me directly, I collect your name and email address to reply to your message.
4. How Your Information is Shared
- No Selling: I never sell, rent, or trade your personal information with anyone.
- Third-Party Services: I use trusted third-party services to run this website and newsletter (such as my email marketing platform and website host). These companies only use your information to perform their specific tasks (like delivering my newsletter to your inbox).
5. Links to Other Sites
My website may contain links to outside websites, such as online bookstores (Amazon, IndieBound, Barnes & Noble) or social media platforms. I do not control those websites, so please check their individual privacy policies before sharing data with them.
6. Your Rights and Choices
- Unsubscribe: You can opt out of my newsletter at any time by clicking the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of any email.
- Data Erasure: You can contact me at any time to request that I view, change, or completely delete your personal information.
7. Changes to This Policy
I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Effective Date."
8. Contact Me
If you or your parents have any questions about this Privacy Policy, you can reach me at:contact@sterlingmcusack.com