Even though these two articles show a really broad separation of the publishing industry, I want to applaud both authors for getting it done! 
To John Locke – the biggest congrats on taking the long road, and to Christie Craig – enjoy the increased book sales from all the free publicity!
Self-Published Author Gets Unusual Book Deal
Self-publishing author John Locke has a made an untraditional deal with a traditional publisher.
Simon & Schuster announced Monday that beginning early next year it will distribute physical editions of Locke’s Donovan Creed thrillers, which have sold more than 1 million copies as e-books.
Locke will continue to publish and edit his work, through his own John Locke Books, and the author will maintain full control over the digital versions. His novels include “Lethal People” and “The Love You Crave.”
In a statement issued by Simon & Schuster, Locke called the agreement an “exciting departure from the norm” of giving the same publisher rights to both e-books and traditional books.
Texas sues author over ‘Don’t Mess With Texas’ romance novel
A recently filed lawsuit gives a whole new meaning to the “Don’t mess with Texas” slogan.
The Texas Department of Transportation has filed a request for a restraining order against a group of defendants, including major book stores, over a romance novel titled “Don’t Mess with Texas.”
The book, available in paperback and electronic form, is written by Christie Craig. It costs $5.99 and includes a cover illustration with a shirtless man cradling a woman wearing cowboy boots in his arms.
“The book contains numerous graphic references to sexual acts, states of arousal, etc.,” the lawsuit states.
The trademark infringement lawsuit alleges that the “Don’t mess with Texas” slogan was used without permission or a license. TxDOT is requesting that the book be recalled from distributors, destroyed and retitled, according to the lawsuit.
Craig, the author and one of the defendants, could not be reached for comment.
