Submitting multiple novels

[jackokent]

Hi John

I am interested in the earlier query about sending in two novels. Is it best to do them one at a time or by sending two are you more likely to give the impression you are not a one off author. Also, is it a bad thing if they are very different, for completely different audiences. Would it make an author look versatile or merely risk alienating thier first audience by writing something so disimilar.

Can I also add my thanks to that of others on this site. It is very kind of you to answer all our questions like this.

[John Jarrold]

Jack

No problem! I enjoy doing it.

There is no doubt that a new writer should decide what they want to do - and enjoy doing - most, before submitting. They should also make sure it is something that publishers are acquiring, since mainstream, mass-market fiction is a business. Versatility is not prized by the publishing trade in 2006, because it is difficult enough to get the bookselling trade to take a new author seriously in one area. There is no way they will be interested if they jump about and write in different areas. And remember that, as far as the UK book trade is concerned at head office level, where most books are bought these days (rather than from individual sales reps), even SF and Fantasy are considered completely separate genres. Publishers will not be impressed by an author who writes three fantasy novels, then says 'Ok, I want to write SF now'.

[jackokent]

John

this is so helpful, many many thanks for this.

I have one more question, probably more for interest than anything else, but how much, if at all, do you or other agents or editors look at sites like this and at snippets of people's work. I don't know of other sites but I can't think this is the only one. Do agents and publishers cruise these sites and look for talent too or is this just not done. Also, would they be cheesed off if someone has posted a significant amout of work and then try to publish it?

Cheers
J o K

[John Jarrold]

Interesting point. I know that various authors have first been taken on by publishers who saw their works on websites like this - or the writer's own blogs/website. I feel that agents should also be involved in modern technology and should be pro-actively looking for new writers, not just sitting in an ivory tower and waiting for authors to drop into their lap. However, I have been attacked for this attitude by some who feel it's wrong!

It is also true that publishers are sometimes posting significant amounts of a novel online - as are published authors like Charlie Stross - so that shouldn't be an insuperable problem.