Requesting Revisions Before Contract?

smallthunder said:

Hi --

I was under the impression that an in-house editor works with a writer AFTER a contract is signed. No? Is it common practice to ask for revisions (including additions) to a manuscript before making a commitment to purchase?

Just curious. I am not opposed to making changes at all --

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Why not just have a chat with the agent. Say that you don't mind making the changes, but only on the basis of a contract.

I just went through this -- there was a possibility that a publisher was going to ask for a re-write before making any kind of offer, and my agent said it would be up to me to do it or not.

I think in your case, the publisher is probably not sure enough of the book to make an offer yet and wants to see the end result before deciding. Do you agree with the suggested changes, or haven't you seen them yet?

My agent called the editor when she indicated an interest (and when she asked if I'd consider a rewrite); after talking for a while, the editor asked for a meeting with me. I met with the editor and publisher and talked about my book (with my agent). They wanted significant changes, and I expressed enthusiasm about doing them, because I knew they were right. They came back with an offer a day later, so I didn't have to rewrite without a contract, but yes, I would have. Why? Because I knew they were interested, but as a first-time novelist, they couldn't know for sure if I could pull it off (i.e., if I was serious about my writing). I wouldn't have blamed them if they didn't offer before the rewrite (and my agent warned me it could happen).

I would say that if you think their changes would make your novel better, then you should do it. They'll see that you're eager to work with them and will hopefully take on your novel after your rewrite!