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Dear Author,

Although most authors use this Q&A page to post questions about how to get a literary agent… you can ask me anything about writing, publishing, and/or marketing your book(s) below. It doesn’t matter what genre your book is (fiction, nonfiction, or children’s books), and it doesn’t matter how far along you are in your process. I’ll do my best to help.

My name is Mark Malatesta and I’ve worked in the publishing industry most of my life. As a literary agent, I secured contracts with publishers such as Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Prentice-Hall. I also served as the Marketing & Licensing manager for the publisher Blue Mountain Arts. Now, I’m helping authors get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals as an author coach.

The only thing I love more than books (aside from my wife and our two cats) is helping authors get their books out into the world in the best way. That’s why you’ll find a treasure trove of valuable information (and inspiration) on my websites, including my answers to the 50 questions (below) I’m most asked by authors. I’m happy to answer your question(s) too.

If you want to post a question, make sure it isn’t answered in the FAQ section below first. I’m not going to answer questions that have already been answered. 

Also, please note that your question/comment will be posted publicly. If you want to remain anonymous, type “Anonymous” in the name field. Either way, your email address will remain private and you’ll receive an email when a reply has been posted (usually within 48 hours). I’ll do whatever I can to point you in the right direction.

I look forward to helping you achieve your publishing goals.

All my best,

Mark

Frequently Asked Questions

PUBLISHING A BOOK

1. What do I need to know about traditional publishing vs. self-publishing, and which publishing companies are the best?
2. What size advance payment can I expect from a traditional publisher?

The size of your advance will depend on four things. First, the genre of your book. In general, the bigger and/or more popular the category is, the bigger the advance. Second, if you have an agent, and you have a good agent, you’re more likely to get a bigger advance. That’s one of the things that separates good agents from mediocre agents. And, third, the size of your advance will depend on whether you have just one publisher who wants your book, or more than one. If you have more than one publisher, they might bid against each other. When that happens, the size of your advance could double, triple, or more. Ultimately, publishers consider all the above and base the size of an author’s advance on how many books they believe they’re going to sell during the first year of publication.

3. Is it possible for a writer who's never published anything to get a top literary agent, publisher, and book deal?

Most of the authors I’ve helped get published with major publishers like Random House as a literary agent and, now, as an author coach, were previously unpublished. In many cases, they were self-described nobodies who didn’t think of themselves as writers or authors, but they believed they might have written a good book. You have to start somewhere as an author, so don’t let your fear of not having a bigger platform or publishing history stop you. Having a great book is what matters most. And most successful agents and publishers never tire of discovering the next great book. It never gets old.

4. Does my book need to be finished before I contact agents or publishers?

It will depend on your genre…

Fiction Authors (all genres): You’ll need a completed manuscript (no exceptions), as well as a 1-2 page, double-spaced synopsis. A small number of agents will also ask for a long (5-6 pages, double spaced synopsis) and/or a chapter-by-chapter synopsis, and/or a fiction book proposal.

Nonfiction Authors (all genres, including memoir and narrative nonfiction): You’ll need a partial manuscript (three sample chapters, not necessarily the first three), as well as a complete book proposal with chapter summaries for the entire book (even if the book is already complete).

Picture Book Authors: You’ll need a completed manuscript (no exceptions). A small number of agents will also require you to have a second completed manuscript to submit your work.

5. What do I need to know about copyrighting my book?

LITERARY AGENTS

6. What are literary agents and how do they work?

Read my 9-part Guide to Literary Agents here: http://literary-agents.com/guide-to-literary-agents/. It reveals: what agents are, what they do, and how they work; pros and cons of hiring a book agent; how agents get paid; requirements to be an agent; a brief history of agents; and tips to help you determine whether you should try to get an agent.

7. What's the #1 thing I can do to increase my chance of getting an agent?

Listen to (or read the pdf transcript) of my most popular audio training (67 minutes), 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

It explains:

* Why you must have an agent and how they really work (some of the things you learn are going to shock you)

* 3 types of literary agents and how you can find the right one for you

* The most important thing that agents and publishers think about when they’re considering your work

* 5 writer scams that could cost you thousands (or tens of thousands of dollars)

* Why you can’t think of yourself as an author (if you want to make a living as one)

* The critical difference between good agents and great agents

* Why you have only 8 seconds (yes, 8 seconds) to get an agent’s attention

* 5 types of authors (and why it’s so important that you know who they are)

* Why many of the things you’ve learned about query letters is completely wrong

* How you can get help from me personally 1-on-1 to get an agent

To access the recording and transcript (no charge), click here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you enter your name and email address, simply click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library” and the training mentioned above is the first recording/transcript on the page.

8. Are agents prejudiced about age, education, location, ethnicity, lifestyle, beliefs, etc.?

Authors sometimes think agents and/or publishers are prejudiced when it’s not that at all. The real problem is that some authors have a narrow focus in their work that isn’t very inclusive or commercial. This is particularly true when it comes to “special interest” authors whose writing explores: race, religion, politics, sexual identify, etc.

Inclusive writing means making the focus of a book the theme(s) that any person (or a lot of people) can relate to. In other words, there are some books written by black authors (for example) that are only (or primarily) going to be read by black authors (instead of a mainstream audience) because they dive so deep into the black experience. Same thing goes with Christian authors. Whenever I’m coaching a Christian author, one of the first questions I ask is, “What’s your goal? Where do you think your book fits on the mainstream/Christian spectrum? Do you want to reach a secular audience or simply “preach to the choir”?”

No matter how inclusive your writing is, it isn’t going to interest everyone. Some agents are very eclectic and open to reading books by any author about anything. Others aren’t, and only look for certain things. Me? I’m one of those open and eclectic people I described a moment ago. I don’t have any agenda with authors except to help them see the range of options and opportunities, based on their beliefs and goals. The clearer you are about your goals, and how your work is going to come across, the easier it will be to get the desired response from literary agents, publishers, and readers.

Other things you might find helpful:

Old authors: Read this article: http://literary-agents.com/old-authors/.

Young authors: Read this article: http://literary-agents.com/young-authors/.

Education: Your education won’t be relevant unless you’re writing a nonfiction book as an expert. In that case, your education might be important. But research and life experience might be acceptable as well. One way or another, as a nonfiction author (not memoir or narrative nonfiction) you’ll need to show agents and published why you’re qualified to write about your topic.

Location: This isn’t usually relevant, but if you’re trying to get a literary agent in the U.S. and you live outside the U.S., make sure you scroll below and read my FAQ section for International Authors.

9. Where can I find the best agents interested in my type of book?

Find literary agents interested in your book using our Directory of Literary Agents (no charge). It’s the most comprehensive (and accurate) list of literary agents in the world (in print or online), and you can access it here: http://literary-agents.com/directory-literary-agents/.

The directory features:

* Detailed profiles/bios for more than 1,300+ agents

* Searchable by book genre/category

* Preferred query method(s)

* AAR membership status

* Personal email addresses

* Mailing addresses

* Agent photos

* Links to agency websites

* Maps to agency offices

10. What do I need to know about the AAR (Association of Authors' Representatives)?

Our 5-part article series contains everything you need to know about the Association of Authors’ Representatives: history, mission, Canon of Ethics, requirements to be a member of the AAR, and how to find contact information for active members. Click here to read the article series: http://literary-agents.com/association-of-authors-representatives/.

11. How can I avoid bad literary agents?

Read our guide to finding the best literary agent for you here, which includes an article about how to identify and avoid bad literary agents: http://literary-agents.com/best-literary-agent/.

12. Should I try to find a literary agent where I live?

It’s more important that you find the most established agent with the best track record of sales who believes in you and your book and shares your vision for your writing. Read this article series about finding the right literary agent before deciding who you want to submit your work to: http://literary-agents.com/finding-a-literary-agent/. In particular, make sure you read the section about New York literary agents located here: http://literary-agents.com/finding-a-literary-agent/new-york-literary-agent/.

You should also know that most agents aren’t going to meet with you in person unless they’re already representing you and/or they’ve already gotten you a book deal. One exception is the opportunity to meet with literary agents at a writers’ conference (learn more about writers’ conferences here in this article I published with Writers Digest): http://literary-agents.com/writers-conference-part-01/.

Despite what I just stated above, you can certainly submit your work to agents in your area if there are any. You can search for literary agents by location in my Directory of Literary Agents that you can access here (no charge): http://literary-agents.com/directory-literary-agents/. Once you’re in the directory, after you’ve entered your name and email address, use the drop-down menu and scroll down until you see the location categories.

13. Is the only way to get a literary agent through a referral?
14. How many agents should I query at one time and what do I need to know about simultaneous submissions?

The phrase “simultaneous submissions” can mean two different things. One type of “simultaneous submission” is querying more than one agent at the same agency at the same time. You should never do that because agents don’t want to “compete” with other agents at their agency. Why? No agent wants to spend the weekend reading your manuscript, only to find out Monday morning that you already signed a contract with another agent.

The other type of “simultaneous submission” is querying different agencies at the same time, which you should do. Otherwise it will take you years to get an agent, since some agents take months to respond (or never respond). However, 99% of the time I suggest authors refrain from letting agents know they’re submitting to multiple agencies. It’s essentially none of their business, unless an agent responds positively to your query and asks to see more material but only on an exclusive basis (meaning they won’t look at it unless you say you’re not going to show it to any other agent while they’re considering it). If that happens, you’ll have to decide how you want to handle it based on: how many queries you’ve sent out, who the agent is, exactly what s/he’s said, and whether anyone else is already reading your material.

As long as you’re only querying one person per agency at a time, you can send out as many queries as you want. However, you should only query the very good to great agents before you start querying less successful agents. I always tell my coaching clients that we’re going to send out a small number of queries in the first round (10-40). The general idea is that I like to see my clients get some type of positive response (a request(s) for more material) based on a small first round of submissions, before encouraging them to send out more.

That way, if the query isn’t working (or working as well as I’d like), I can still tweak something before sending out more. That’s why I would never send more than 40 initially. It gives you time to adjust. Another thing that affects my decision about how many queries to send out initially (closer to 10 or closer to 40) is how many agents are interested in your genre. If there are many hundreds of agents in your genre, I’d say you can be more aggressive and send 40. If you’re writing something like Christian Fiction (on the other hand) with a much smaller number of agents to choose from, I’d start with 10.

Read this article for more information about simultaneous submissions: http://literary-agents.com/finding-a-literary-agent/stop-looking-for-a-literary-agent/.

15. What's the best way to write a query letter?

Visit our query letter website at http://query-letter.com/.

16. If my book is part of a series, should I mention that in my query letter?

Some agents like series and/or sequels. Some don’t. At least not initially. If your books stands alone (meaning a reader would be able to read the second or third book without having read the first book), then you might say that in your query. I like “softening” any talk about series or sequels that way since some literary agents and publishers (surprisingly) believe that standalone books are superior. But, if you’re successful with your first book, agents and publishers are often (not surprisingly) more open to the idea of subsequent books that would appeal to loyal readers familiar with the first book.

17. If I have more than one book, in different genres, should I mention everything in my query?

Don’t do it, unless the genres are closely related. For example, if you’re pitching a young adult novel and you also have a middle grade novel in development, that’s okay to say. What you don’t want to do is seem like a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. In other words, telling agents that you have a thriller you’d like them to consider, but you’ve also written a romance novel, cookbook, self-help book, and children’s picture book isn’t might impress them. It’s more likely going to make it seem that you haven’t yet figured out what you’re best at.

Seemingly focused authors are perceived as more likely to have achieved mastery. So, if and when you get an agent who wants to represent one of your books, you can let him or her know about your other projects, at that time, and see what happens. You can certainly be eclectic and successful in multiple genres, but you don’t need to share that information in your query. And you might end up having more than one agent. Read this article: http://literary-agents.com/literary-agent-menage-a-trois/.

18. What's the best way to write a book synopsis?
19. What's the best way to write a book proposal?
20. What do I need to know about nondisclosure agreements or NDAs?
21. Should I attend a writers' conference and, if I do, how should I pitch agents and/or publishers while I'm there?

Read my 2-part article on how to pitch literary agents at a writers’ conference, originally published in the Guide to Literary Agents (Writers’ Digest Books): http://literary-agents.com/writers-conference-part-01/.

22. Should I query agents via email or postal mail?
23. How should I format my query, synopsis (fiction authors), and sample chapters or manuscript?

Every one of these things has different requirements and you should do your best to make them all look the way agents expect them to look. That way, agents will be able to immerse themselves in your writing, instead of getting hung up on your formatting.

Query formatting tips: http://query-letter.com/how-to-write-a-query-letter/query-letter-format/.

Document formats that agents will accept: http://literary-agents.com/get-a-literary-agent/file-format-submission-guidelines-for-literary-agents/.

Synopsis formatting tips: http://query-letter.com/how-to-write-a-query-letter/query-letter-vs-synopsis/.

Manuscript formatting tips: Your manuscript should have a cover page with the title of your book, your name, and your complete contact information. Each chapter should begin on a new page, about a third of the way down the page, with chapter headers centered. You should have a header with your last name and the title of the book left justified, and the page number right justified beginning on the first page that appears after the cover page. Indent all your paragraphs, although you may or may not decide to ident the first paragraph of each new chapter and scene (after a scene break). Don’t add space between paragraphs unless it’s a scene break. Use Times New Roman font, 12-point. One or two spaces between sentences is okay, although one is now preferred.

24. I am a picture book author but not an illustrator. Can I just submit text or do I need to find or hire an illustrator?

Some agents only accept picture book submissions from authors who are also illustrators (they’ll let you know on their websites if that’s the case), but most agents accept picture books without illustrations. And, unless you’re a professional illustrator and/or working with a professional illustrator, it’s usually best to wait to illustrate the work. In fact, even if you are a professional illustrator and/or working with a professional illustrator, it’s can be best to wait… to illustrate. That’s because your agent and/or publisher will likely want to edit the book and that might change the number and/or type of illustrations you need. Your publisher will also want to lay the book out in a certain way, and that might change the number and/or type of illustrations you need as well. Lastly, your publisher might want to use a different illustrator and/or artist.

25. What are good/bad/typical response times for submissions to agents?
26. What's the best way to interpret literary agent responses and feedback?
27. What should I do if my pitch to agents isn't working, or working well?

Authors can often get a drastically different response by tweaking or changing something in their pitch materials (query letter, synopsis, first 50 pages, etc.). My favorite example of this is one of my coaching clients who’d pitched her #1 “dream agent” three times over the course of two years. She was rejected every time. After I helped her rewrite her query letter, she approached the same agent, a fourth time, and he requested the full manuscript. So, don’t get too discouraged. You might just be a few changes away from getting what you want.

INTERNATIONAL AUTHORS

28. Will literary agents in the U.S. consider books by authors living abroad?

Most literary agents in the U.S. will consider any book if it has appeal for the American market. In other words, the primary focus and value of the work needs to include content that an American reader can relate to. If you do that, you can write about anything, anyone, and anyplace.

29. Can I get a literary agent if my book isn't in English?

If you want to query agents and/or publishers in the U.S., you will almost always need a translation that’s in English so they can read it. If you’re already famous or well-known, and if your book is already selling well abroad, you might get away with doing less translation initially and get help from the publisher with the rest. But probably not agents.

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AUTHORS

30. What's the best way to approach agents regarding a book that's already been published?

It’s never too late for a previously published author to get a literary agent, traditional publisher, and book deal. But it can be tricky. Read this article which talks about that, and a few other things you might find interesting and helpful: http://literary-agents.com/its-not-what-you-say/.

If your book is currently under contract with a vanity press (one that you paid), they will probably let you out of their contract (although you might have to pay them a small fee). They usually let authors do this because vanity presses make all (or, most) of their money on authors paying them to publish their work. Look at the fine print in your contract, the publisher’s website, or ask them about it. However, you might want to wait and see if you can get interest from agents first, before you terminate your contract with the vanity press.

Getting out of a contract with a smaller but legitimate press (one that didn’t charge you to publish) is also possible. But you, or your new publisher, might have to pay them significantly more for the privilege.

BOOK GENRES & WORD COUNT

31. What genre does my book fit into?

I often tell my coaching clients they’ll need to call their book different things, depending on who they’re pitching. That’s because some books can be categorized in different ways. And that’s a good thing because it means those authors can pitch their book to more agents. For example, if you’ve written a thriller and you haven’t been able to get an agent that you know represents thrillers, there’s still hope. You can then begin pitching appropriate agents who represent commercial fiction, mainstream fiction, and/or general fiction because some of those agents might be interested in your work. To help you figure out which genre(s) your book fits into, look at our book genres website at http://book-genres.com, which has definitions for every genre that agents represent.

32. What's the best word count for a book in my genre and what can I do if my book is too short or too long?

Authors often get confused about the best word count for their book because they don’t realize that books by first-time authors have stricter requirements. One author I spoke with once told me, “My novel for young readers can be 800 pages because two of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books are 800 pages.”  I replied, “She’s famous and can get away with that. Go look at her first book in the series. It’s less than 300 pages.” It is possible to get an agent, publisher, and book deal for a book that’s above or below the normal word count for your genre… but it can be tricky. Read this article which talks about that, and a few other things you might find interesting and helpful: http://literary-agents.com/its-not-what-you-say/.

Typical word count ranges for first-time authors:

Adult Fiction: 80-95,000 words (variations include formula romance which can be shorter; as well as historical fiction, sci-fi, and fantasy novels, which can be longer)

Nonfiction: 50-90,000 words

Young Adult: 40-80,000 words

Middle Grade: 20-40,000 words

Chapter Book: 10-15,000 words

Early Reader: 2,500 words or less

Picture Book: 1,200 words or less

33. Which genres are best and/or most popular?

WRITING/EDITING A BOOK

34. How can I write a bestseller?

Read this article series talks about what a bestselling author really is and how to become one: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/how-to-become-a-bestselling-author/.

35. How can I make my book "high-concept"?
36. How can I "raise the stakes" in my novel?
37. What's the best way to write a book that will support my business?
38. Should I hire a freelance book editor or ghostwriter?

Editing: I’m a big fan of getting editing support, but it’s not always necessary. You might be further along than you realize, so it could be worthwhile to have someone look briefly at your work before investing the time and money that working with a decent editor will require. Good agents will give you some feedback about how to improve your work as well, if you’re fortunate enough to get agents reading your work. And sometimes that’s all you need.

Ghostwriting: If you don’t want to take the time to write a book, or you don’t feel you have the skill required to do a great job, you can hire a ghostwriter instead who will help you write your book.

MARKETING & PROMOTION

39. How can I improve my "author platform" or "promotional platform"?

Advising authors about how to get more exposure or improve their platform is difficult because the best marketing strategies are going to be different for each person… based on their unique goals, skill sets, personality, lifestyle, and time/money resources. There are literally hundreds of ways to improve your platform and get more exposure, but, to be successful (and happy) you need to find the few strategies that are right for you. This article is a good first step: http://literary-agents.com/author-platform/.

40. What do I need to know about having (or not having) an author website and what makes a good one?

Read this 3-part article with information about what you about having and/or creating an author website: http://literary-agents.com/author-website/.

41. What do literary agents think about social media for authors?

MISCELLANEOUS

42. Will you tell me what you know about a specific agent, publisher, editor, event, website, organization, etc. (or make recommendations or introductions)?

I don’t answer questions on my websites about specific agents, publishers, editors, events, websites, organizations, etc. If I did, I’d be inundated with such requests—and it’s a very subjective process. In other words, what’s right for someone else might not be right for you. However, I’m happy to answer questions like that during an introductory coaching call, during which I’d have sufficient time to make sure my recommendations are good ones, based on your unique situation. Click here to learn more about scheduling an introductory coaching call: http://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

43. Will you forward a message or submission to a specific agent, author, or publisher for me?

I’m not able to forward any requests or messages to the literary agents, authors, or anyone else listed or feature on our websites. If I did, I’d be inundated with such requests.

44. Will you be my literary agent?

No. I’m no longer a literary agent. I’m now fully committed to helping authors get literary agents, publishers, and book deals as an author coach.

45. Will you promote something for me on one of your websites, in your newsletter, or on social media?

No. Although I do promote things on my websites, in my newsletter, and on social media but it is always something I initiate. Otherwise, I’d be inundated with such requests.

COACHING & CRITIQUES

46. Will you review and comment on any of the following: marketability of my book idea, quality of my writing, query letter, synopsis (fiction writers), chapter summaries (nonfiction authors) book proposal (mostly nonfiction authors), website/blog, book cover, book trailer, etc.?

I answer general questions online here (below), no cost. If, however, you want feedback on your book idea(s) and/or sample pages, query letter, synopsis, book proposal, website/blog, etc., you can get that by registering for an introductory coaching call here: http://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

47. Can I work with you 1-on-1 to get a literary agent?

Yes. You can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

48. Can you help me get an agent for poetry, short stories, or academic books?

Probably not. Most literary agents won’t represent authors of books for the academic market because they’re not profitable enough to be worth the agents’ time. And it’s extremely difficult to get a literary agent or publisher for a collection of poetry or short stories unless you’re already a well-published and/or award-winning writer. The good news, however, if you write poetry and/or short stories, is that it’s not that hard to start getting standalone poems and/or short stories published. You simply must be patient and persistent submitting your work to journals, anthologies, contests, etc. Poets, of course, often make wonderful essayists, short story writers, and novelists. And short story writers often expand one of their short stories into a novel, while seeking publication and awards for some of their individual stories.

49. Can you help me get an agent for stage, TV, or feature film?

Not exactly. Although some authors I’ve worked with have had their work adapted for TV, stage, and feature film, my main specialty is helping authors get literary agents, publishers, and book deals. That often leads to interest in the other areas, through the author’s agent or publisher. Most agents who represent books help authors with subsidiary rights including TV/film as well as English editions in other countries and international editions in other languages. Agents often partner with another agency (co-agenting or sub-agenting) with another successful agency to handle subsidiary rights.

50. How can I post a question?

Simply scroll below and fill out the form!

comment-or-question

If you want to post a question, make sure it isn’t answered in the FAQ section above first. I’m not going to answer questions that have already been answered. Please note that your question or comment will be posted publicly. If you want to remain anonymous, enter “Anonymous” in the name field. Your email address will remain private and you’ll receive an email notification when a reply has been posted (usually within 48 hours).

4,442 Comments

  1. Avatar

    How are you sir.i have read and understood everything above.I self published a book,an African crime series book, in Amazon KDP in September 2019 ,but unfortunately it did not go well in terms of marketing and sales.i would like to know if it’s possible for me to submit it to literary agents again for publication.I also finished another one again ,which is a sci-fi horror and I am contemplating on submitting it to literary agents as soon as I find one.

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Brandon,

      Yes, see my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, the part that says “Previously Published Authors” to learn more, and to see the types of things I can help with, and my many no-cost resources I offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  2. Avatar

    Could you recommend a person or an agency which will help with a design a marketing plan?

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hello Witold,

      A marketing plan for what purpose? For a book proposal? And, if so, for what type of book?

      Let me know here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  3. Avatar

    Dear Mark,

    I’m a newbie to the writing world and need to ask you two questions about query letters and about writing seminars . First what are the best words in the first 8 seconds in the first sentence of a query letter to get a literary agent to read my book? Second where and what type of writing seminars are best to attend to help publish and market my book/books? Thank you Claudena Kramek

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Claudena,

      The best opening line of the query should vary depending on the author and the book, so there’s no standard line, unfortunately, that’s going to work for everyone…and…re: seminars, etc. you should google “writers conferences” as one type of event you might want to participate in to learn more about both your craft and the industry. You can also pitch agents at conferences. 😉

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  4. Avatar

    Mark! Do you work with Ghost Writing?

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Christina,

      I’m sorry, but I don’t.

      However, look here, as you might find this website helpful:
      https://www.the-efa.org/.

      And…

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  5. Avatar

    I LOVE your handy lists of agents for various genres! But when you have a list of names with no details, it would be SOOO helpful if you would include their agencies beside their names so we won’t have to spend hours finding the company to check whether we’ve already queried another of their agents. Would it be hard for you or your minions to put the agency beside the agent on those long, long lists? I’d love it!!

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Loria,

      See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see how to access our agent directory if you haven’t already done that (it’s much more user-friendly that the lists you’re looking at): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  6. Avatar

    Dear Sirs:

    Too many people are writing books today. Thus it is difficult to get

    published. However, I live for what I do about mnemonic associations.

    Getting published or not is not important in my life.

    Sincerely,
    Michael (Las Vegas)

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Michael,

      Our websites are mainly devoted to helping authors who want to get published…get literary agents…so I’ve removed you from our email newsletter list that you registered for. Apologies for any confusion.

      All my best, and I wish you well,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  7. Avatar

    Dear Sir, I am looking for a picture book publisher – you can find some pictures in the online gallery https://www.saatchiart.com/account/artworks/710952. My suggestion for a picture book would be that the children own the pictures Write stories (insertable blank sheets) and then put your name on the cover. Or can you send me addresses of picture book publishers? Thanks a lot! Kind regards Wilfried Gähler Gemany 79224 Umkirch email: friedels@web.de

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Wilfried,

      See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see the types of things I can help with, and many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory (including picture books). You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  8. Avatar

    Since 1995, I have submitted my manuscripts to agents in London and New York and for the last 25 years all I have received from them is the standard rejection letter. I don’t even think they read the first few chapters. I have two completed manuscripts and cannot understand why I keep getting the same negative replies.

    How can you help me

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi David,

      See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see the types of things I can help with, and many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      If you want to know about setting up a coaching call, you can see information about that here:
      https://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

      That’s the easier/faster path.

      Also…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  9. Avatar

    I’m writing a picture book and wonder if a story composed entirely of dialogue is publishable. It’s under 300 words and the dialogue gives cues for possible illustrations.

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Anonymous,

      It’s possible, would depend on the execution.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  10. Avatar

    Mark,

    Lived 20 year spiritual nightmare. Just completed mss, “How Not to Find God.”
    Big story in VT. Part True Crime, part psychological thriller.
    Book is done, but ordeal left me scant resources to bring it out. “Cult of Two” left me soul weary, with few contacts.
    Are there people who could help, given my limitations? Do you ever offer query help on spec, or by other arrangement?
    Book is well-written, content compelling.
    Ideas?

    Gratefully,
    Mac Parker

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Mac,

      You don’t need to pay an agent (unless they sell your book, then they get a commission), and you don’t need to pay anyone to help you get an agent. See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see the many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  11. Avatar

    Dear Mark and Ingrid,

    HAPPY NEW YEAR! Thank you for that beautiful photo of the two of you in the hot air balloon! I look forward to reading your messages and thank you for the helpful information!

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Thank you, Jane, for your warm and thoughtful message…my pleasure…and I hope this new year is good to all of us!

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  12. Avatar

    Mark I have decided to go with cup and quill to do my Editing and to ask in what way or maybe see who would they be able to send my work to when it is done so I ask this to see if you have a point of direction that you may have me look into on this when my work is done completely Thank you Bruce Smith

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Bruce,

      Two things…

      First, see my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      And…

      Second, if you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access more resources we have to help you get an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you’ve already done the above and you’re looking for something else, more specific, let me know and I’ll do my best to help.

      You can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  13. Avatar

    Hi mark,
    Can you please send me a list of top literary agents especially ones that accepts manuscripts and represents upcoming international writers. I will be glad if u can help me narrow down my search. Thanks for your help so far

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Godwin,

      See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see the types of things I can help with, and many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. I don’t provide individual lists of agents the way you’re asking, plus it’s difficult to identify those particular agents. You should start by querying the best agents for your genre. Some will be open to working with interntional authors; some won’t. They’ll identify themselves as you query them. 🙂

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  14. Avatar

    Dear Mark and Ingrid,

    Wish you a joyous and blessed new decade!
    All the best.

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Thank you, Robyn, and you…hoping 2020 is good to all of us!

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  15. Avatar

    Thank you for your New Year greeting across the pond Mark .I will probably use your service in due course ,in the interim what is the cost here in the UK?

    Ricky author of Poems 1977 ,Limberlost Trilogy ,Cloudburst (2019)

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Ricky,

      My pleasure.

      And…

      If you want to know about setting up a coaching call, you can see information about that here:
      https://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

      Just don’t register for a call if it’s for a book of poetry, as there aren’t enough agents that accept poetry, so I don’t do coaching calls for that. But, any other genre is fine.

      All my best, and happy new year!

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  16. Avatar

    Hi. I received a contributory proposal by Austin Mcauley Publishers. Are they reliable or just a vanity publisher?

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Lucio,

      See here for my take on how to discern good publishers from those that aren’t as good: https://literary-agents.com/best-publishing-companies/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  17. Avatar

    Should the synopsis on the back of the book jacket give away the book ending? How much of the story should be revealed?

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Betty,

      Since you’re talking about a book jacket description, no. If, however, you’re talking about a synopsis for literary agents, that should reveal the ending.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, and you’re after an agent, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  18. Avatar

    Hi Mark,
    I wanted to wish you and yours a wonderful and happy New Year. You gave me such good advice for my book on teaching the young women of Pakistan. All queries and everything else agents need ready to hit the e-mail and or snail mail waves this weekend. I’ll let you know how it goes.
    Thanks so much again,
    Adele Barker

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Adele,

      My pleasure, thank you, and good luck…

      And, of course, let me know if you land an agent!!

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  19. Avatar

    I’m Looking for a book cover creator that has reasonable costs??

    Oh, and happy new year!

    Best Regards,
    Robert

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Robert,

      See my Frequently Asked Questions page where you posted your message, located here, to see the types of things I can help with, and many no-cost resources we offer to help writers get agents (that’s mainly what I do these days): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. Then, if you want help with anything else, along those lines, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best, and happy new year!!

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply
  20. Avatar

    Established scientist and non fiction author (see Wikipedia)
    Previously had New York agent, now retired
    Looking for compatible agent to handle / advise on several book length manuscripts now mostly 80-90% complete.
    Will want to engage in initial email and/or phone consultations

    Reply
    • Mark Malatesta

      Hi Martin,

      If you want to know about setting up a coaching call, not sure if that’s what you meant, you can see information about that here:
      https://markmalatesta.com/mark-malatesta-author-coaching/.

      And…

      If you haven’t already done so, you should click here to access all the valuable resources we have about getting an agent in our private, members-only area (no charge): https://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you can search for agents by genre in my agent directory. You can also click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (with a text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.

      You might find that helpful as well.

      If you want help with anything else, you can post more questions online here: https://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/.

      I’ll do what I can to point you in the right direction.

      All my best,

      – Mark

      Mark Malatesta
      https://markmalatesta.com
      The Bestselling Author
      https://thebestsellingauthor.com
      Literary Agent Undercover
      https://literary-agents.com

      Reply

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