This is my first entry on my new blog. I haven't decided exactly how to use this forum and suggestions are welcome.
When we get closer to the publication date (5/1/07) of my next novel HERE SHE LIES you can visit me here to learn more, give me feedback, and ask questions. I'll also have some live chats--so stay tuned.
Meanwhile, keep checking in for conversations as they arise...and they will.
Talk to me!
Hi Kate,
I loved your book, Five Days of Summer - I have just finished my first manuscript, which is also a mystery. Can you tell me about how you went about the trecherous process of finding an agent?
Thanks!
Posted by: Melissa | February 17, 2007 at 05:16 PM
Hi Melissa,
Sorry it took so long to answer your post...I just got back from a wonderful beach vacation last night! Finding an agent: not easy. I've been with my current agent for over 12 years, and when I found him I had already had two novels published, which probably helped. My first two novels were published by a small press, unagented, and I do not recommend going through the publishing process without representation. A good agent really knows the business ropes, which is important, so you can concentrate on writing.
I get the feeling that you've already figured out that it's very hard to get an agent to take new writers seriously, and the most important thing is to make sure the work you show them is as strong and polished as you can possibly make it. That's the first challenge. Then you've got to complete with a zillion other aspiring writers for agents' attention. If you don't know any agents personally, or have friends who know an agent, then use any of the lists such as Writers Market etc. and make up a list of agents whom you think might like your work. Then send a letter to them describing your work and asking if they would read it. Many will tell you no, so you can weed through your list this way without having to send the whole novel to everyone, which they really don't like. (In other words, just sending in your novel 'cold' will not necessarily influence them to read it.) When you've got your shorter list of agents willing to read it, then you've opened the first door. Send whatever sample length they request. They all have different preferences. Definitely read through the Writers Market type books for detailed advice about how to go about it...but basically, that's how it works.
It is really hard to get an agent, indeed, but just remember that they are regular people and if they like what you send them they will contact you! So go for it, and I wish you lots and lots of luck!
Posted by: Kate Pepper | February 23, 2007 at 04:06 PM
Hi,
i loved 7 min to noon.
its like one of the best novals you wrote from the others. An i cant wai to read the new one.
-Sophia
Posted by: Sophia Tarantul | March 23, 2007 at 11:54 PM
Hi,
i loved 7 min to noon.
its like one of the best novals you wrote from the others. An i cant wai to read the new one.
-Sophia
Posted by: Sophia Tarantul | March 23, 2007 at 11:54 PM
Thanks Sophia! Thanks a lot for saying so. I've learned over the years that everyone has a different favorite. It's interesting how much difference there is in people's tastes, reassuring actually, because I try to make each novel unique which pleases some and annoys others.
Posted by: Kate Pepper | March 24, 2007 at 04:15 PM