Wednesday, 14 May 2008

Celebrating (Almost)

Well, it looks like I'm moving on to book number seven. A publisher I've been in negotiations with for quote some time now has finally offered me a contract. I talked with the editor on the phone yesterday and was impressed with his straightforward and professional attitude, so I have a good feeling about this company.

But I'm not celebrating yet. We've agreed on terms but the contract is still being drawn up. In this business, until you have a signed contract, you have nothing. Now, I have no doubt they'll be true to their word and send it to me, that I'll do the job and they'll publish the book, but you should never bank on something in this business until you have a contract. There's just too much randomness in publishing to act otherwise. If you start making assumptions you'll get burned.

Hopefully I'll be able to make a more definitive announcement soon. They're considering two more book proposals from me, so I may have lots to announce!

2 comments:

Wizbit said...

Wow... I know you said you're not going to celebrate, but it's still really exciting! Congrats to even get this far :D I'm in awe of people who do

Anonymous said...

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you, although perhaps not while I'm typing, as I make enough typoes as it is...

Glad things are going well, and looking forward to being a more regular visitor to your blog.

Looking for more from Sean McLachlan? He also hangs out on the Civil War Horror blog, where he focuses on Civil War and Wild West history.

You can also find him on his Twitter feed and Facebook page.