South Flatland Fiction

Eaton:
For those unfamiliar with electronic publishing, Gordon, could you comment on royalty rates, length of contracts, and the importance of an "out" clause so the agreement can be easily terminated if another owner buys out their ePublisher?

Kessler:
I don't want to sound like I'm doing a commercial for Xlibris. I'm sure there a number of good ePublishers and on-demand publishers out there. I think the individual needs are important when a writer chooses a publisher.

Xlibris seemed to fit what I wanted to do the best. First of all, there was no specific time limit on their contract. The author keeps all rights and can discontinue the relationship with them at any time. Monies are refunded minus charges for work already done by the publisher. Royalties vary from 10 to 25 percent and even up to 50 percent for eBooks sold by Xlibris. They are dependent upon the form the book is published in and the point of sale. There is complete information on Xlibris and their policies at www.xlibris.com.

Eaton:
Will your book be available through major online booksellers and/or traditional bookstores and how does Xlibris fill customer orders?

Kessler:
Books are published and made available in a number of forms. They can be downloaded over the Internet into an eBook or a PC, can be purchased with a credit card and are sent instantly. They can also be ordered online from booksellers such as Amazon or from conventional bookstores like Barnes and Noble, Borders, or even independent bookstores like Watermark Books in Wichita and will normally ship within 10 days. They are available in trade paperback for about $16 or in hardcover (if you choose that option) for around $25.

Eaton:
Who is responsible for editing the manuscript, providing the ISBN number, and the copyright protection of your material?

Kessler:
Xlibris offers a number of services and options. A useful option, especially if the author is not a member of a critique group and doesn't know where to turn for a professional edit, is their copy editing service. They also have data entry service and a number of different marketing packages. As far as copyrights, ISBNS, and Library of Congress numbers, they are add-on options unless the writer decides on one of the package deals that includes them.

Eaton:
Great advice, Gordon. It is always wise to investigate thoroughly before deciding. Once again, I want to thank you for taking the time to inform our readers on the new fronter of ePublishing. I know we'll all be looking forward to the release of your novel, Jezebel.