Also, Marco was himself responsible for "lines" other than Star Trek, being the senior editor for the department that handles all of Pocket's media tie-in fiction.
Well I'm hoping the upcoming 4400 books aren't affected. I didn't think this was possible but I'm feeling worse about this, I didn't realize Marco was senior editor for all the tie-in work.
My sympathies go out to Marco, as well as the other half a million US workers laid off last month. I still can't get my head around that figure.
Every project that's already been contracted will go forward, just with a different editor wrapping it up.
Margaret was editing the 4400 novels, at least until Marco's departure. It's possible that she's handing those duties to one of the other editors in the department (Ed Schlesinger or Jen Heddle, both fine folks in their own right), but Greg or Dave will likely hear what's up on that front before I do.
Yes, Margaret has been editing the The 4400 novels. Whether she will continue to do so in the post-Marco reorganization (or whether the 4400 license will be renewed after the initial batch of books) remains to be seen. EtA: Or, what Dayton said.
IIRC, there were only going to be four 4400 books anyway, two set during the series, and two set afterwards. With Marco's departure, does that mean that there are now just three editors supervising the extensive tie-in fiction lines? Margaret, Ed and Jen? Will some authors take up the slack in lines like Vanguard which is essentially a three-author series? or Voyager which is a one/two author series?
I couldn't believe the news about Marco and the 35 other employees losing their jobs,Marco did a wonderful job editing the Ds9 books and I enjoyed reading the discussions about the books before they came out . I hope everyone can find new jobs soon.
^ The 4400 license was for four books. Sales will determine anything beyond that. The arrangement is typical of how such licenses work these days. I can't speak for Margaret and Co., but I imagine it's possible that they could turn to more experienced folk with editing backgrounds for some freelance editorial duties. Keith (for example) has already performed at least some of those tasks on numerous occasions. I also can't speak for other author-folks, but I imagine we're all trying to figure out how we can help. Dave Mack and I have already had one extensive conversation on how best to assist Margaret with Vanguard during the transition, particularly as Open Secrets is in production and going through revisions, and Dave's Book 5 is at outline stage. I expect we'll have other such discussions in the near future. Fortunately, Marco had already delivered his editorial notes to me prior to the events of last week. As for the rest? I guess we'll see what we'll see.
Hi, everybody. Sorry to be late for my own shiva. I’ve been spending the last few days enjoying quality time with my family, but a few well-wishers I’ve spoken with since my last day at Pocket told me about the comments being offered here and elsewhere online, and I just wanted to pop in and let you all know how much I appreciate the incredibly generous sentiments being expressed. Really, it’s very touching, and even a little overwhelming. As I’ve already communicated to my authors, I'm taking these developments in stride, and staying upbeat. Life’s too short to do otherwise, and I hope to land on my feet as soon as possible. I had a great job. It was work, but it was also play, and I tried to make the most of the wonderful opportunities that had been given to me, even on the days when I was banging my head on the desk. The friends I made, especially my authors and the great folks I leave behind at Pocket, allowed me to have more fun than I ever imagined would be possible as an editor. I’ll always take pride in the work we did together, and grateful for the camaraderie that came with it. Even against the uncertainty that lies ahead, more than anything I feel truly blessed because of those connections. So here’s to you, mates. Now get back to work.
Good to hear from you, Marco. Hope you find a new and improved gig real soon, and that we'll be seeing you at sf conventions and such for years to come. Shore Leave's not going to be the same without you . . . .
Marco, I wondered when you were going to pop in and say hi. Enjoy Christmas with the family and be sure to join in the conversations still. Don't go too far.