A little update on this stepping stone journey, as I navigate the path to publishing. 50 queries sent to agents and 23 rejections so far on my first novel. I’ve recently rewritten my query and am trying out the new model on the next batch of agents. Along the way, you tend to learn some hard truths that you will continually process:
Your family will likely not read your writing nor give you honest or constructive criticism. Get outside of your comfort zone. You need honesty to improve.
Find good beta readers and support each other.
Every agent wants something different. Be prepared for the zillion variations (ie, 5 pages, 10 pages, synopsis, first 3 chapters, first 50 pages, bio, pitch statement, other similar works, etc…)
Comparison is the thief of joy. Stay off Twitter and go write some more.
Spreadsheets! Log your progress of every project and status.
Accept the fact that your first novel will likely not be the first one that gets the attention of an agent nor the first to get published. I know it’s your baby, but don’t put all your eggs in one basket. It could simply be that the timing is not right. Keep writing and diversify.
But the best thing to do is show up and do the work, bit by bit. Persistence is key. I’m going to get to a set number of queries, then move on. My next novel is written and needs editing and proofed, then I will start querying while writing a third. Don’t count on a “big break” because that’s not the real world we live in. Process is joy.