I just returned from a conference and I was able to have lunch with a gal who is the VP Editorial DIrector for one of the major publishing houses.

Everything Brenda says is true but soemthing else that should be mentioned is the fact that the publishers have to be able to sell the books to Borders, BN, Wal*Mart, Sams Club, and independents which isn't always easy. They also have to pay for space placement in these big book stores.

This gal shared that 10% of the books pay for 100% of the books. It just goes to show you how many books actually MAKE money.

If you're writing books to make money, you might want to think again.

Now this is with major houses. THere are other ways to publish as you all know.

Another ting I've learned from some writing friends who are with some of the almost big houses is that they end up spending their advances on travel and promotion. I guess it depends how important it is to get your message out there.