Suspicious publication offer

[abracanabra]

Dear A. Wiebe;

I would like to apologize for never sending in a critique of
of your story, chapter 3, as I received it some months ago. I had suspended my work for Critters about that time but am now working on a short story compilation. The reason I am contacting you now is that I am interested in including Vicesteed.

Your story is an interesting concept and if this sample is any indication, well written to boot. I do believe Vicesteed
would be a valuable addition to this present project.

This compilation includes works from previously unpublished
writers and illustrators, and I hope this is just the first of several publishings, (such as the Orbit series of the late 1970's). If this isn't a money maker, and naturally I pray it is for all of us, at least the term "previously unpublished" will no longer be applicable.

Of course I would like to read the full manuscript of Vicesteed, (and any others you may wish to submit), and I will send you a professional critique and any corrections/edits that may be made for publication, projected publication dates, publishing house, etc. This will be my first publication as editor, (and writer, at least in this first book), so I am quite committed to the project.

Now, just send your check or money order... wait! I hope to send a check to you. That's right; this is a legitimate project. The book may float, soar or sink, but the publisher, agent and I are taking the risks, not you. Not any.

Your manuscript(s) will be treated as with any publisher. If your story is rejected for any reason, you will be notified and our copy will be destroyed, but not your name or e-mail address as we value our relationships, even if they are not immediately profitable.

There is a possibility you have already published and I missed it, what with me being in my ivory tower and all. However, if not, please consider my offer. If you are interested in learning more, simply e-mail or snail-mail me, ask your questions and expect a prompt reply. If you would like to speak with me personally, (a prospect I always find exciting), you may call me at:
REDACTED
Between 11:00am - 9:00pm Eastern Time

Ask for KENT. If you do not have free long distance service, e-mail me
your number, (if you're in the U.S.A.), and I will call you at your stated time. One other thing; if you don't get a prompt answer when you call, try again as I haven't figured out how to access my voice mail yet. Maybe I will by the time you call as hope springs eternal.

Speaking of springing hope, I hope to hear from you soon. I have enjoyed your writing I have sampled and am sure we will enjoy any contribution you care to make.


Yours Faithfully,

E.K. Hill (Kent)


Warning signs:
1. Vicesteed is a novel, not a short story.
2. There's no mention of an advance or payment.
3. I am published--and my publications are listed on my Critters bio.
4. This guy's an unpublished editor and an unpublished writer, too?
5. Sounds like there's not an actual publishing deal--I'm guessing this is a POD-type solicitation.
6. Editors aren't supposed to contact people through Critters.
7. The phrasing and grammar are just a bit off.

On the other hand, this might be a good-faith effort by this guy--but it's not exactly a paid-publication offer. And unpaid publication is easy--just put something on your website. It counts, and you've lost rights. I suppose I'll let Critters know about this.

No, I'm not going to sign over Vicesteed for profit-sharing alone, esp. in a deal like this.

Comments

[cloudscudding.livejournal.com]

If Vicesteed hasn't sold in ten years, then I'll consider a revenue-sharing deal for it. Some of these work pretty well, but usually that's when they're handled by more notable individuals. An all-unpublished lineup is not promising.

[douglascole.livejournal.com]

Right. Specifically what I meant by "revenue sharing" is "how does Abra get paid?"

[cloudscudding.livejournal.com]

*nodnod*

I would like to get paid....