BackerKit FAQ
How does BackerKit crowdfunding work?
Crowdfunding is a collaborative way to bring ideas and projects to life. Project creators post their idea for a project, and backers pledge money to make the project possible. Backers get behind the scenes access and backer-only rewards, which can include exclusive products, special pricing, creative input, content, and more.
To become a backer, select a pledge level that features the reward(s) you would like to receive when the project is successfully completed and make your contribution.
All-or-nothing crowdfunding model: The creator sets a funding goal and a deadline to raise funds. If the project does not meet the goal by the deadline, backers credit cards are not charged and no money changes hands.
Crowdfunding projects can happen at various stages of the creative process. Make sure to check the estimated timeline of when rewards will be delivered. Project creators will keep you updated on the progress toward completion and delivery of your rewards.
Backing a crowdfunding campaign is not the same as purchasing an item from a store. When you back a campaign you are supporting the creation of something new. Rewards are almost always delivered, but are not guaranteed.
When will I be charged for my pledge?
Your payment method will not be charged right away. You will be charged for the amount of your pledge when the campaign ends and the project reaches its funding goal. You will not be charged if the campaign does not reach its funding goal.
What happens after the campaign is over?
The Creator will send out a survey that will ask you for more information about your pledge, your shipping information, additional items you may want to add to your pledge, and collect shipping fees if applicable.
The survey will be sent to the email address we have on file with your pledge.
Any additional payment will be charged when you complete your survey and confirm your order.
Project FAQ
Who is Jenn Lyons?
I am the two-time Astounding Award nominated author of the five-book epic fantasy series A Chorus of Dragons and the stand-alone epic fantasy novel, The Sky on Fire, all published by Tor Books. (My next book from Tor--Green and Deadly Things--is expected in 2026.) I have previously been a graphic artist, an illustrator, and a video game producer (note: I still work as a producer) and now live in the greater metro Atlanta area with my husband and my cat, Khajiit, who has committed no crimes. Just ask her.
What is Full Negative?
Full Negative is a re-write of the first book I ever wrote, waaay back in the days before smart phones or any use of the word 'AI' that wasn't purely science-fiction. It's now been fully updated and rewritten and is (at least in my opinion) much better. It still combines elements of science fiction, political thriller, and yes, superheroes. Think Star Wars meets the X-Men by way of Jason Bourne. The Full Negative universe is also the oldest IP I've ever developed--yes, older than the world of A Chorus of Dragons. I would very much like to share it with you.
Is this book queer?
The main character insists she's straight (I have my doubts, but we'll just have to see if later books prove her right or not) but there are plenty of queer people in the book, because that is realistic and normal.
Is this a stand-alone novel?
Yes and no. Yes, in that the story is self-contained. No, in that I have plans for more stories. In fact, I have a trunked second book just waiting to be rewritten, too, and an outline for a third and fourth.
Are there any sex scenes?
No. There's 'sexually suggestive content' and certainly references to sex occurring, but nothing shown on the page. If this were a movie, it would be rated R strictly for the language and violence.
Factions - What are they and now do I join one?
The Factions are what we're calling Backerkit's "Teams", a mechanic used to track trivia challenges. In our case, we're also using them to track which faction people are 'rooting for' based on how many people join that faction, and that will inform some of our stretch goals (such as art cards, buttons, etc). When you make a pledge, there is an option to join a Faction. But what if you missed it/didn't see it/didn't understand why you'd care? You can always click the "Manage Pledge" option, and pick a team from there.
What formats will be available?
At this time, we plan to release Full Negative in ebook, audiobook, trade paperback, hardcover, and limited edition deluxe hardcover versions. See the different pledge levels for details.
What's the difference between the Hardcover and the Limited Edition Deluxe Hardcover?
The Hardcover copy will be printed on 50# white paper (better than many books), with a glossy dustjacket. It may or may not be signed (depends on the version you buy) but it will not be numbered. The Limited Edition Deluxe Hardcover will be printed on even better paper, 70# white, with a textured cover. Also, it will be signed and numbered.
Can I buy multiple copies?
Yes! You can always buy more copies as add-ons along with your pledge.
How can retailers buy copies?
For this campaign, we're focusing exclusively on our fans and backers. When we reach our funding goal, we will work on developing a retailer option at that point.
Will Full Negative be available in my language?
Sadly, only if your language is English. As of launch, that is the only language we will be offering. If, however, we receive a lot of interest in other language editions, we will look into localization after the funding period is successful.
How much will shipping cost?
That will depend on where you live and how much you get. We will be shipping via the USPS and their affiliated partners, and working to get you the best price possible. Shipping costs will be calculated during the pledge manager period.
When do I get charged for shipping?
During the pledge manager period, after the backer surveys are completed.
When do I make my selections for variable rewards (such as art cards, buttons, stickers, and the like?)
During the backer survey period after the campaign ends.
Can I buy additional add-ons that aren't part of most reward packages?
Yes, of course! We have an entire suite full of add-ons available for purchase.
When will my rewards ship?
We anticipate that the ebook and digital background will be available within 3 months of the end of the backer survey period. The physical materials will take a bit longer, but we expect to be able to start shipping them around 6-12 months after the survey period, depending on production and shipping times to us. It might be considerably less if everything goes well.
How do I get in touch with you?
So many ways! Check out the "Visit Paradise" section of the main story tab for all the deets.
I can't pledge at this time; will I be able to back this project at a later date?
If we don’t reach the funding goal, then I'm afraid that's it and there's nothing we can do to help. If we DO reach the funding goal, it may be possible to purchase some or all of this content through my website at a later date, but I cannot promise anything until I see how well we do. In fact, we might have even more stuff available from the website later on.
What if there is an issue with my payment?
You will get an email from Backerkit if there is an issue with your payment. This email might end up in your junk/spam folder, so make sure to keep an eye out there. If the issue cannot be fixed within 14 days, your pledge will still be imported into the pledge manager where you can reclaim it and correct payment information.
If I move, when and how should I update my shipping address?
You should update your address as soon as you can using your backer survey. If you encounter a problem with that, or if you move after the 'lock in' date, contact me at [email protected] and use the subject line BACKER CHANGE OF ADDRESS, so I can more easily find your issue. Thank you!
Is there anything you, the author, want to say to us?
Thank you so much for your interest and enthusiasm. Full Negative has been my baby, my pet project, for almost as long as I can remember, and I'm super excited to be able to finally share it with you. I hope you love it as much as I do, and I look forward to seeing you again for the sequel!