The RNA conference is looming. I had hoped to be well on my way with TSD by then. I do think TSD is a stronger book for taking my time, but now I want to get it finished.
The post arrived and I had a rejection from an agent on the Roman mystery. It was expected as the agent had taken her time. If agents are interested, they move quickly. As I am focussed on building my career with M&B at the moment, it doesn't matter. I look forward to the day when I am able to pick and choose agents. I also feel that if I can make a success of the Roman set romances, it will be much easier to sell the mystery one. Luckily, I don't think it will date.
The emphasis at the moment can not be on finding an agent, but rather on writing the next M&B and getting it accepted. Then writing the one after that. Then finishing the regional saga if I don't have tight deadlines. THEN and only then contacting agents. I have no need of an agent if I am going to stay within M&B. What is the point of paying 15-20% plus expenses for someone who is not going to be able to do anything?
I can see a lot of reasons why I might want an agent if and when I decide to go mainstream and hock my Roman mystery or Regional saga. Contracts and advances are variable. Also large publishers prefer to deal with agents. But why would I want to put a layer between me and M&B. Advances are standard at this level as are contracts. Equally I can see no point in having an agent for work done for Hale -- the contract is standard and the advances are not very much. Without clout, not much can be done. With clout and a solid reputation, a lot can be done.
So at the moment, I have to concentrate on the the things I can control and change, work to improve my position to a point that it is me who gets to pick and choose and NOT the agents.
Thus it is back to work on TSD with renewed vigour.
3 comments:
I agree with you. I really don't think an agent does much good at the beginning. Perhaps later, or if you're working with single title houses.
Best of luck finishing the new book!
I think that's very true, you just have to focus a bit at a time at building your career.
I think that's very true, you just have to focus a bit at a time at building your career.
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