A Goodreads user
asked
Linwood Barclay:
Linwood, what are your thoughts on agents for newer authors? Is it worthwhile or better to approach publishers directly? My writers group is having a discussion about this and we can't decide so your opinion would be much appreciated.
Linwood Barclay
I think an agent is the way to go. A publisher is unlikely to look at an unsolicited manuscript. But they listen to agents. Agents act as a filtering mechanism (among other things) and publishers figure if the agent is recommending it, it might be worth looking at. As for finding an agent, check out the acknowledgments in books similar to yours. Look for the name of an agent being thanked. Query these agents. Send a brief email -- who you are, what the book is about -- and attach chapter one. And the first page better be good to get the agent's attention. Agents I know get 50 inquiries a day.
More Answered Questions
Brenda
asked
Linwood Barclay:
New cover (new release?) of The Accident in e format. Just read it. I am pretty sure I read it back in 2011 but no Goodreads post. LOVED IT Can't find it on Goodreads today (Sep 11/23) under new cover/date. The two listing show publication dates on editions 1700? and 1865? Is anyone at DoubleDay dealing with this? I refuse to post a review on an addition I've not read. Thanks.
Husayn
asked
Linwood Barclay:
Hi Linwood I enjoyed reading Trust Your Eyes and couldn't put it down! It's a must read, an excellent book and the best one so far! I also liked A Tap on the Window and No Time for Goodbye. Could you recommend any mystery authors/books that you enjoyed reading? Thanks. Husayn
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