When an agent feels the contract is acceptable, it is sent to the author. If the terms are clear, the author signs all copies of the contracts and returns them to the agent who forwards them to the publisher. The publisher then sends fully signed contracts and a check according to the terms of the contract. The agent then deducts the commission and expenses and sends a check to the author. The fiction author begins the editorial process in conciliation with the publisher.
Many authors forget to include an acknowledgment page and regret it thereafter.
Along with family and friends, it is a wonderful opportunity to express your appreciation to your agent and editor. During this time, the publisher makes promotion plans, creates a design for the cover, prepares the sales catalogue information, determines advance sales, etc. The publisher then line edits and copy-edits and sends queries to the author for approval. When everything is perfect, the book is designed and put in galleys. Corrections made by the author after this point are costly and must be paid for by the author.