There are plenty of horror stories like that.
The 'advance payment' goes further than I mentioned too. If the book doesn't make enough to make back the 'advance payment' the publishers can (and do) ask for their money back!
I see another post to follow-up from this one in the future!
It's a treacherous business. It's like being in a band. The same happens. You get signed for three album's. First album only stills 100,000 or so. Record company bins your contact and demands repayment of advance plus the countless deductions for promo etc. It's terrible!
Yes... then think about this...
A writer can be contracted for another book. The first book sells really poorly and the publisher wants the advance payment back.
Not only does that mean you're giving back money, but the next book is most likely binned too - leaving you unable to finish the book because it's no longer wanted and no longer belongs to you!
It's a bloody mare and no mistake!
Sure is!