| Re: Another 'hello' thread
Hi, Teatime!
Congrats on finishing your novel. I wouldn’t worry about the commercial potential of post-apocalyptic fiction. Have you checked out S.M. Stirling's Emberverse series? The first book is called DIES THE FIRE. You could also look at Stephen King's THE STAND or CELL. All three novels are examples of best-selling fiction which deals with post-apocalyptic themes.
As for your question about agents:
I would certainly encourage you to find an agent first. Unless you have time to go to conventions and make your own industry contacts, an agent is the best way to get your work to the major publishers which don't accept unagented submissions.
Your average agent will take a 15% commission, but if you have the right agent, it’s worth it. I would suggest that you take a look at Preditors and Editors and read through the information about what an agent is and tips on how not to get scammed.
I second a lot of what Havlen said. A good agent can change a waiting period of several months into a matter of weeks. A good agent will know which editors are looking for the kind of fiction you’re writing and be able to touch base with them directly.
Hope that helps,
Jeremy |