WHAT DO YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT SUCCEEDING AS A WRITING?

This is a mandatory question for anyone who actually has the nerve to want to be published.

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by F.J. Thomas on August 3, 2012 at 12:39pm

I'm assuming you meant "succeding as a writer" instead of succeeding as a writing?

If you go through an agent and publisher, how much of your own time (and money) is spent in promoting the book, on average?

Do most writers hire a publicist when they're starting out?

Permalink Reply by jeff herman on August 7, 2012 at 8:51pm

Since you're standing next to a horse, my advice is to put the horse before the cart by focusing on getting the agent and the the publisher in that order, and then worry about the promotion piece.

Permalink Reply by Liz Gwyn on September 6, 2012 at 1:31pm

I followed your advice, Jeff. I had one of your books lying around the house that I had apparently bought around 2004. When I was inspired by God to write a book--I just happened to find your book in my house. I read it---did what you said---now I am a new author with a published book--my FIRST try! I thank God for your knowledge & that you share it with us.

Amazing Stories of Life After Death, Charisma House. July 3, 2012!!!

Got my first royalty report just yesterday!! It's amazing!

Permalink Reply by Dianne Burch on August 6, 2012 at 11:30pm

If I already have an in-depth marketing plan for my children's book as a self-publishing author, and am not currently trying to seek a traditional publisher, is there any reason that I should try to secure a literary agent?

Permalink Reply by jeff herman on August 7, 2012 at 8:52pm

The only purpose for an agent is to get you a publisher, or perhaps negotiate your deal if you already have an offer in hand.

Permalink Reply by Liz Gwyn on September 6, 2012 at 1:32pm

It works!

Permalink Reply by Kelli Stuart on September 18, 2012 at 9:22pm

I have a near completed manuscript and I actually think it's pretty good. I know everyone thinks their manuscript is good, but I have been working on this book for ten years and this is the fourth draft and it's the first time that I felt like the characters took over and started telling their own stories.

In other words, this is the first time I believe I am holding something worth publishing.

So when do I start the process of seeking out an agent? Right now? When the book is 100% finished? Should I have it edited first and then start querying? Is this another instance of trying to put the cart before the horse? I am anxious to get the process started because I really believe this book needs to be published. I just want to take the necessary steps to do this right and to set myself up for success. Thanks for your advice!

Permalink Reply by jeff herman on September 20, 2012 at 1:19pm

Is it fiction or non-fiction?

Permalink Reply by Kelli Stuart on September 20, 2012 at 2:21pm

It is fiction. I am currently at 82,000 words so the manuscript is close to complete.

Permalink Reply by jeff herman on September 25, 2012 at 4:48pm

Do you think it needs editing?

Permalink Reply by Kelli Stuart on September 25, 2012 at 8:13pm

Yes, I think it will need some editing once a fresh set of eyes has gone over it. But I don't think it will need extensive rewrites or edits. More of a good cleaning, which I could do for now to make sure it's presentable. Does that make sense?

Permalink Reply by jeff herman on September 26, 2012 at 10:24am

My understanding is you should make it as strong as possible before pitching it. It may not be too costly to have it reviewed at this stage by a qualified freelance editor. There'a group of them to choose from here, and I know others.