This weekend I've been doing further research on agents. I'd already spent hours reading the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook and checking out agency websites to find where my book might possibly fit, but this time I was doing something more specific. I was looking at how the agencies which interest me want work submitted.
It's something that is common sense but also very important. We all know we need a synopsis and a covering letter, but beyond that there does seem to be a lot of advice on the web, some of it conflicting. However, every agency has its own specific requirements and we should follow them to the letter. There is no point in failing to do so, or trying to submit a book before it's ready, because we just end up jeopardising a chance with that agency and in the current market nobody can afford to do that.
Just a little heads up that something very exciting is going to be happening on this blog on Thursday and it might just involve my lovely mentor Caroline Smailes. Please check back then...
13 comments:
Too right. Even if we think our books would be better presented in a different way, agents have their reasons, which come from a LOT of experience, and we have to respect that.
Good luck with the submissions.
Lx
I am waving my magic wand x
Queenie - it's the small differences which can be confusing, for example one I was looking at one today asks for a CV which I've not yet done.
Liz- thank you x
Caroline - next week will be the time to start waving the magic wand, I think you need it this week x :)
Be sure to research your potential agents at Agentquery.com. Nicely organized, easily searched, and the vet their listings, so you don't get any predatory listings.
There are also many articles there about how to prepare a manuscript, what questions to ask your agent when you get an offer, et cetera.
Oooooh there's something happening on my blog on Thursday involving Caroline too. Good luck with your submitting :)
Hi Cathy. So the book is ready at last. Well done and good luck with the agents. I'm rooting for you.
There are so many differences aren't there.
Good luck with it!
I'm learning a lot from you, Cathy. Currently editing my novel I haven't even thought about agents and submitting. Infact, I'm nowhere near that stage.
See you Thursday.
CJ xx
See you Thursday!
Paul Lamb- I think there is almost too much info out there and there are differences beween how US and UK agents want submissions made, that is why so much care needs to be taken.
DJ - thanks:)
Marianne - yes finally complete! The whole story is on here...
Lane and CJ - thanks.
JJ- yes!
Good luck with your submission, Cathy X
Thanks, Mandy x
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