- How long should my book be? An adult novel is usually between 60-120,000 words. Children’s books are often shorter. The exception here is that science fiction and fantasy can often be much longer, but usually only for authors who have a proven track record. That means if it’s your first book, you should still probably keep it under 120,000 words. If it’s not 60,000 words long, it’s probably not a novel.
- Should I sell short stories first? Not if you’re a natural novel writer. Some people just naturally gravitate toward certain lengths. What’s easier for you to write? What do you naturally like to read? Move in that direction.
- How do I find agents to submit to? You can literally google Top 10 agents in Fantasy Publishing. You can also go to writersmarket.com to get lists.
- How do I write a query letter? A query letter is a business communication. It should be short, 3-4 paragraphs. It is an introduction to your book. Tell how long it is, what genre it is, why you’re contacting this specific agent. Then offer your hook, a sentence about what makes your character you unique, what the big plot arc is (and how it is resolved). Finally, tell a little about yourself (if it’s your first book and you have no other credentials, just say that).
- How many agents should I send to at once? I usually recommend about 10 agents at the same time. Then you’re not sending to everyone and you have a chance to tweak your query letter or manuscript if you get a lot of rejections, before you send out the next round.
- Can I just submit to editors without using an agent? The short answer to this is no. The long answer is: yes if it’s a small or indie press or if you’ve been to a conference where an editor has invited submissions (usually with a special code). But just as an aside, I would never sign a contract with anyone without having an agent look it over. Never.
- What if an agent wants to sign me? Immediately ask for a list of clients you can contact to ask questions about the agent, and a list of most recent sales.
- If my book has been rejected everywhere I can think of sending it, what should I do? Ideally, you should already have written another book and you should start sending it out?
- Should I keep writing in the same genre or try a new genre? If you’re unpublished, you can feel free to experiment, so write whatever you feel inspired to write. You’re going to learn new things either way.
- How long does it usually take to get published? I like to tell people it’s like an apprenticeship. It often takes 5-10 years of part-time work, maybe less if it’s full-time. There are no guarantees, however. And even once you have an agent, it can be several years before you have a book out. It’s also very common for your first book not to sell. If it has gotten you a good agent, however, that’s enough.