Morton gives evidence in NSW Supreme Court; legal dispute with former agent continues

17 August 2018 Books+Publishing

Bestselling Australian author Kate Morton has given evidence before the NSW Supreme Court as part of an ongoing legal dispute with former agent Selwa Anthony, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

As previously reported by Books+Publishing, Anthony is suing Morton for an alleged breach of contract; Morton is counter-suing for a refund of up to $2.8 million that was paid to Anthony in commission.

Anthony alleges Morton agreed to a contract by phone in 2002 that gave Anthony a 15% commission of all monies earned for the life of the works that Anthony negotiated for. But Morton denied this claim, telling the court that she acquired knowledge of the arrangement ‘osmotically, I suppose … I knew that Selwa took 15% of [author] Kim [Wilkins’] advances’. Morton said that she instead understood the agreement to mean that Anthony would be paid 15% of any advances she received from publishers.

Allen & Unwin CEO Robert Gorman said, ‘Allen & Unwin is very proud to be Kate Morton’s publisher. From her debut in 2006 to her sixth and finest novel, The Clockmaker’s Daughter (September 2018), Allen & Unwin has deeply valued its relationship with Kate.’

‘Kate Morton is one of Australia’s most loved authors and has forged an incredible worldwide literary reputation. Her compelling writing style, intriguing plots, and natural storytelling talent combine to engage readers from across the globe. We are delighted at Kate Morton’s deserved and ongoing success and remain grateful to share in her amazing journey. Allen & Unwin wholeheartedly supports her,’ said Gorman.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that a formal agreement between Anthony and Morton was signed in 2005. Books+Publishing has withdrawn the statement, as it appears that no agreement was ever presented to or signed by Morton. Books+Publishing apologises for this error.

Category: Local news