This is the kind of question that is very situational.
For example, when Tor started its paranormal program, we gave small advances, even to our biggest names. However, by doing so, we created a pool of "extra" money that we could work with -- sure, it was money that didn't exist yet, but we talked a good game and walked a good game, and used that money to launch the books.
However, at houses that are not Tor, it is very likely that the smaller the advance is, the less work anyone will do on it, and the less effort anyone in a department that isn't editorial will put into it.
See? Situational. This is where a smart, savvy agent can come in handy.
no subject
Some editors would say no.
Some agents would say yes.
Some agents would say no.
This is the kind of question that is very situational.
For example, when Tor started its paranormal program, we gave small advances, even to our biggest names. However, by doing so, we created a pool of "extra" money that we could work with -- sure, it was money that didn't exist yet, but we talked a good game and walked a good game, and used that money to launch the books.
However, at houses that are not Tor, it is very likely that the smaller the advance is, the less work anyone will do on it, and the less effort anyone in a department that isn't editorial will put into it.
See? Situational. This is where a smart, savvy agent can come in handy.