How to say Thanks but no Thanks without burning bridges ?

Manat

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No luck with agents but in the past month I have received two offers and two contracts to review from an E publisher and a midsize print press. I want to go with the print press, who called yesterday. I haven't responded to the e pub yet, though I did send them an e-mail re some questions about the contract and haven't heard back yet. Any advice on how to tell them I'm going elsewhere without burning bridges? I might want to submit to them again sometime but I just think being in print is the better way to go. Any stock phrases or things to avoid saying?

Any advice much appreciated
 

Toothpaste

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I think something straightforward would do: After careful consideration I have decided to go with a different publisher at this time. Thank you very much for you interest in my work. Perhaps we may get the opportunity to work at a later date.

Or something to that effect. I dunno.
 

RainbowDragon

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I would thank them profusely and express regret at choosing another publisher. Definitely leave the door open for the future if at all possible. You know what rejections leave you feeling appreciated and which taken for granted -- write them a glowing rejection!
 

Lauri B

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I don't think you need to do anything profusely. The publisher is a business person; these are business deals. Just tell them you have chosen to go with someone else, and let it go. They aren't going to hold it against you.
 

RainbowDragon

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Well, it is business but don't overlook the human element. People on the other side get attached to works they "discover" too.