A couple of interesting points. The first is that Tony's book was certainly helped on its way by its success on HarperCollins' site, Authonomy. The book rose to the top of the all time rankings for Romance, and #2 in the all-time rankings for Sci-Fi. HarperCollins itself didn't want the book, but that record was obviously a persuasive factor in Sparkling Books' acquisition decision.
Secondly - and this is something we're coming across more and more - SB isn't offering a load of money upfront and is requiring Tony to work hard on marketing his work. Some authors are concerned that a bigger publisher might have a different working method.
The answer to that puzzle is both yes and no. Of course, the big guys have more money and more resources. But the truth is that authors were badly paid five years ago and are much worse paid now. Zero advance deals from commercial publishers (that is: not vanity publishers in any shape or form) have become more common. Equally, authors jolly well should be working hard to market their work. The bigger houses certainly expect the same.
So well done Tony. Hope SB does a terrific job for you. A genuinely original premise with some very thought provoking development. It deserves to get read.
2 comments:
I am increasingly aware of authors being taken on by agencies who then find the biggies won't touch them. As for advances, as far as I can tell, they are only for established authors. I too have a book being published by SB and am very happy with promoting my work.It is great being part of a small publishing company, especially one that is as encouraging and professional as SB.
Congrats to Tony Bayliss. I look forward to reading your book.
I have already been lucky enough to take a glimpse at the forthcoming Tony Bayliss book 'Past Continuous' while slogging away with him on Harper Collins Authonomy site. And I can tell you this book grabs you from the start. It is highly original and has a deep message as well for readers both young and old.
Good luck, Tony.
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