But as I wait, I have a question to ask. I’ve read a lot about the process of getting a book published over the last two weeks. I understand and accept the difficulties involved in becoming one of the chosen ones who actually get to see their work in book shops. What concerned me were the reports of the so-called rogue agents, the ones who charge reading/editing fees, who promote their own paid services and participate in referral schemes. There is also plenty criticism directed at amateur or incompetent agents. I would like to hear your opinion on this topic.
Dishonesty and incompetence of literary agencies, is it myth or reality?
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Publishing is a business and as with any business nobody’s safe from swindlers or incompetents. My advice is to choose well known and well respected firms with good credentials. A full list of them can be found in “Writers' and Artists' Yearbook” (2010 book is now available on Amazon).
ReplyDeleteI think a first time writer with no previous experience will only be wasting their time applying to well known agents. All they can hope for is a standard rejection letter through the post. It might be a good idea to look for a small startup agency that needs you as much as you need them. Of course, that’s when you’re most likely to fall prey to somebody who wants to part you with your money or get an agent who doesn’t have enough connections to get you a publishing deal. You can try looking online to see if there is any negative feedback on the agent. Also remain vigilant, if their letters or phone calls sound fishy then stay away from them.
ReplyDeleteThere are companies that charge reading fees, editing fees, etc. They are not necessarily “rouge” and they provide a useful service to writers who’re still honing their skill. Some of them work with well-known literary agencies and will refer good quality manuscripts to them. Companies like that are safe as long as they clearly state what their services are and what fees they charge.
ReplyDeleteI am convinced that it’s nearly impossible for new author to find an agent. I think you should apply directly to publishers or maybe even publish a book yourself.
ReplyDeleteIt would be a lie to say that there are no dishonest agents, but I am sure those are in minority. Before you send off your work to an agency, do some research online, send them an email or give them a quick call. I don’t want to talk too much about dishonesty of literary agents because I don’t have enough information on the topic, but incompetence is a more realistic problem. There are plenty incompetent people in any business. And if you choose a small, not very well known agency, the risk of getting an amateur to represent you is higher. Maybe an agent like that will have the will to work and passion for your book, but their lack of knowledge and connections will make it impossible to market your novels well within the publishing word.
ReplyDeleteIf you choose a self publication root, you might as well forget about writing for a few years. You’ll need to become a salesman and physically go and sell your books. Selling requires as much talent as writing, but it also requires connections and insider knowledge of the industry. Tough-ski.
ReplyDeleteI agree that literary agencies are tough on new writers. They do have a lot to choose from. They see a lot of books and I’m sure they’re good at spotting talent. If they see that a new writer can make them money they’ll sign him up no problem. If I was trying to get my book published, I’d choose a list of good agents and bombard them with my books until one of them agreed to represent me.
Forget about rouge agents, there’s plenty incompetents hiding under the names of well-reputed firms. I’ve submitted my MS to dozens of agents and only got standard rejections with my name pencilled in. Disgrace! I don’t think they even read what I wrote. It’s incredible how many crappy books are out there and agents refuse to accept perfectly good work!
ReplyDeleteI think being a literary agent is really hard. They have to read hundreds of novels each week and some of those must be horrid. I just hope that agents who read your books don’t judge by your previous experience but really try and see if your books can sell. I’m sure if there were some minor problems you’d easily agree to fix them.
ReplyDeleteI think lots of agents sit around waiting for a new bestseller to fall into their lap and they don’t feel excited about books that will make decent money but won’t sell millions. It’s a shame really, because nobody can spot a bestseller in its raw form. A writer has to work hard to write a great book and an agent has to work equally hard to find a great writer. Just dismissing something because it’s not perfect is not good enough. Suggest revisions! Give authors a chance to really show themselves. Maybe then you’ll get that long desired bestseller.
ReplyDeleteFinding a good agent is like winning a lottery. The chances are slim but they are there. While you keep looking for an agent you still have a chance to get published. Here’s a couple of links that you might find interesting:
ReplyDelete- Method in the Madness: Finding a Good Agent or Publisher
- How to Find a Literary Agent
- Five ways to find a literary agent