Writers in the Storm

A blog about writing

storm moving across a field

Tag: author contracts

The Intimidating Business Details of Contracts

Let’s talk about some terms or concepts in contracts. Laura Vanarendonk Baugh talks about payment and negotiations in author contracts.

Read More
Knowing When to Walk Away from a Publishing Deal

Susan Spann In the immortal words of Don Schlitz (made famous by Kenny Rogers): “You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk away … know when to run.” Smart words for any gambler, but equally valid for authors. Unfortunately, too many authors don’t have the courage […]

Read More
Understanding “Advances” in Publishing Deals

Susan Spann “Advances” – technically, advances against royalties, are lump-sum payments some publishers pay to authors “in advance” of publishing the author’s work. More simply, an “advance” is the money an author receives up front on a publishing deal. Not all authors receive advances, and not all publishers offer them. Small and micro-publishers often pay […]

Read More
Publishing Deals: A Warning About Nondisclosure Clauses

by Susan Spann A “nondisclosure” agreement (or “NDA”) is a contract or contract clause in which one or both of the parties promise not to discuss certain subjects, facts, or contract terms. In business, NDAs are common, but they generally only apply to legally protectable “confidential information” belonging to the parties who sign the contract. […]

Read More
What Rights Does a Publisher Really Need? (Part 1)

Susan Spann Whether you publish traditionally or opt for a self-publishing path, it’s important to understand the terms of the contract under which your books are published (or distributed, in the case of author-publishers). In the months to come, my guest posts here at Writers in the Storm will take a look at some critical […]

Read More

Subscribe to WITS

Recent Posts

Search

WITS Team

Categories

Archives

Copyright © 2025 Writers In The Storm - All Rights Reserved