What If…?

While I'm busy working away on my next independently published novel, I started thinking about how happy I have been with the way my writing journey has gone. Then, I started thinking that I can actually be a bit helpful to writers who still would like to attempt to be traditionally published, especially to those who want to write an Austen sequel.

Here's what I discovered may help get your foot in the door:

Write a good novel. Make it clean and submit it to the publisher following their directions precisely.
Write in the Pride and Prejudice universe. According to the publisher, P&P sequels sell better than those based on any other Austen novel.
Write a Darcy/Elizabeth-focused novel. Based on what the publisher told me, this is one of the main criteria they look for. According to their findings, D/E stories sell the best.
Write a what-if variation. Those seem to be in vogue right now.
Be creative with setting and time period. A western P&P came out this year.
Give it a supernatural twist. Also in vogue.
Stay true to the characters. While you are changing the details of the plot a bit, don't change too much about the characters. People really want to see the characters they already know and love.
Throw in some sex. One of the best-selling sequels of all time was extremely focused on the subject. Sex sells, right?
Use Darcy or Pemberley in the title. This is said to attract the most attention.

So if you are interested in pursuing this route, maybe those tips will maximize your chances at getting a contract. Let me know how it works!