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Hello there ~ I was wondering if anyone would be able to advise me. I am about to finish my book proposal and send it to a publisher who is waiting for it. But what is stopping the publisher from saying 'no' and then giving my idea and notes to an established author who they know will sell?
I think I am being a little bit over cautious (& probably hopeful) but this is something so close to my heart...
Thanks so much in advance, Natasha
emily
Member
Interesting question, Natasha. In the past I was advised to always mail myself a copy of my novel before submitting it to any agent or publisher, and keeping that copy of it unopened in the postmarked envelope. Now i think emailing your proposal to yourself does the same trick, as you'll then have evidence you had it before the publisher/agent does. Incidentally, are you going to approach agents too or only publishers? Is your book fiction or non-fiction?
Hi Emily ~ Thanks so much for your reply! I have heard of this postal procedure you mention but couldn't remember the exact way of doing it so thank-you.
So there must be laws in place to deter publishers from using your idea even if you had proof it was yours, right?
I wasn't going to approach agents because after meeting this publisher on the off-chance earlier in the year, she said to send in the proposal once it's ready.
This book would come under non-fiction, probably biography:-) Thanks again for your kind suggestion...
Natasha
Steve
Member
Sounds like an interesting project, Natasha.
Re unscrupulous publishers, check out Editors and Predators at http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors
It's pretty useful for finding out if other writers have fallen foul of the publisher you're considering getting in touch with.
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“Just keep at it. Write loads and never be afraid to pitch your article ideas to editors” Lauren Holden, freelance journalist
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