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Question
Are there any legal problems with writing a work of fiction in which a brand name, or perhaps even another, well-known book is mentioned in passing? An example would be a character reading a book, and I specifying a real-world book. Do I have to get in contact with the author or publisher?
Hi, Paul!
No, not at all. The only trick becomes when you start making disparaging remarks about said brand name/book. For example, it's one thing for your character to say that they didn't like "Gone With the Wind." It's another thing entirely for your character to say that the owners of the Hilton Hotel chain are cheats and all the hotels should be bombed.
See the difference?
It's just a matter of ensuring that you aren't making false allegations about a company/product or trying to ruin its reputation. Otherwise, feel free. :)
Good luck and let me know if you have any other questions!
Cathy
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks very much, Cathy. Your answer told me everything I wanted to know, and on top of that was exactly what I hoped for. Thanks! | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Cathy Clamp
Expertise
I'm happy to answer questions about any aspect of writing articles, short stories and novels, from the beginning kernel of an idea through completion. I can help with writing a query letter and synopsis to an agent or editor. I can explain publishing terminology and acronyms. I can also assist with questions about verifying the credentials of agents/publishers and how to proceed once you've been accepted for publication. I can teach the rules of formatting a manuscript, creating viable plots, characterization and flow in the following genres: romance, science fiction, fantasy, thrillers, suspense, horror, women's fiction, mainstream and mystery. I can also answer questions about writing for major print magazines in the outdoor genre (hunting/fishing/boating/travel.)
Experience
I'm a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance for Tor/Forge Books . Along with a co-author, I've published fifteen mass market novels since 2004, and have contracts for four more books through 2011. I've also published more than two dozen feature articles in leading outdoor magazines.
Organizations
Romance Writers of America, Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Western Outdoor Writers, Horror Writers of America, National Association of Legal Assistants.
Publications
Magazines--Guns & Ammo, Fur-Fish-Game, Rocky Mountain Game & Fish, Deer & Deer Hunting. Many others.
Novels/Anthologies--Tor/Forge Books, Western Reflections Publishing, BenBella Books, Running Press, Wild Child Publishing. Many others.
Education/Credentials
Published Author. Published Freelance Writer. Certified Paralegal with specialities in intellectual property (copyright, trademark, patent) and real estate.
Awards and Honors
USA Today bestseller, Waldenbooks Mass Market Paperback Top 20 bestseller, Nielsen BookScan Top 20 bestseller, Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, 2009, Write Touch Readers Award, EVVY Award, The Lories Best Paranormal. Many others.
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