Have you seen some of the creative contracts publishers are presenting these days? Many of you already know about the variations available when you sign with a pay-to-publish company. But what about traditional publishers? What sort of contracts are they offering?
Numbers of new authors who have produced their own books rather successfully are now publishing books for others. While many of them consider themselves traditional publishers, some are not following the traditional when it comes to their contracts.
I received one yesterday that basically paid no royalties. I could have one avenue of revenue for myself if I set it up. All money from this one source would be mine. And I could buy print books to sell at book festivals and such. But the contact did not tell you even what percentage you would be paying for your books. And if I showcased the book at my website, it would have to be with a link to their website for any potential sales.
Some traditional publishing contacts require that the author put up some of the money to produce the book. Some give higher royalties for ebooks.
Some publishers build into their contracts the right to reject your next project. If you write another book, they want first refusal (or acceptance) rights.
Have you received a nontraditional contract, lately? I’d like to have you share some of the unusual clauses with my followers. Leave your comment here.