Authors of Erotic Romance

Just this week, Barbara Karmazin, a fellow Loose Id author known to many – author and reader alike – lost her battle with cancer. I’ve not had the pleasure that many authors have of meeting Barbara, but nonetheless my thoughts went out to her family. It’s quite strange how internet awareness brings people closer, even strangers.

In the way that this type of news does, it got me to thinking a little about life, destiny, karma and plain old luck – the good and the bad.

This website set out with the intention of providing information to newbie authors (such as we were back then) so there was a little less mystery about how things happen in ePublishing. It’s a bit of a sideways segue, but this sad news reminded me of something quite important that I myself have neglected to attend to – Royalty Rights. I know, a bit of a leap, right, but sometimes it takes a bit of startling news to get the brain thinking further than the monotony of the usual.

All authors need to consider this: We aren’t invincible, so when it comes your time to leave this life, whether by destiny, karma or fickle fate who will be the future recipient/s of your continuing royalties? And what about unfinished manuscripts? It isn’t always as easy as including them as part of your regular estate.

I’m not going to tell you what to do about the two questions above – a good lawyer and/or (preferably ones with experience with royalties/publishing) will give you better advice than I can – especially with so many options available. (Personally, I’m thinking about a trust/fund specifically set for my sons higher education.)

Writing – or selling your writing at least – is about business. Don’t leave such an important decision to chance…or squabbling relatives you didn’t really like to begin with!