(This question is part of a larger subseries called Perpetual WIPs: Published Authors. For the remaining questions, see here.)
If you have a literary agent, how does he/she factor in to your publication experiences? If not, how did you handle your submissions/contract?
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MY AGENT IS MY HERO. I LOVE HER LIKE BURNING. I mean, um, yes, I have an agent.
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I have never had a literary agent. I have been lucky to work with fabulous publishers, who talked me through the process every step of the way. Everything evolved for me from that first book contract. However, now that I am working on many different projects in different genres, it’s harder to keep up, so I am seeking an agent. I’d love to have that relationship with a professional to help me place my work and bounce ideas about all my projects. I have so many ideas, so many manuscripts, and not enough time to do everything!
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I view my agent as a partner. She is the one I turn to, to see if an idea is viable. She also is a fantastic go-between when cover discussions get heated. I trust her to take my crazy emotional rants and translate them to a reasonable position.
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My agent negotiated a fabulous contract for me. He has also been my go-to person when I’ve had questions or concerns about marketing, sales, or in one case a disagreement with my editor. He is worth his weight in gold for dealing with my general neuroticism.
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I love my agent. I would be lost without this agent.
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I’m one of the few authors I know who doesn’t have an agent. I found an editor that fit my books first, and since we work so well together, I’ve stuck with that. Because I’ve proven I can write a book, and fast, I can now send her a short synopsis and sell on proposal. The contract is straightforward, but if I ever got confused, I’d consult an attorney.
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My agent is invaluable as an editor and also to negotiate contracts. I don’t know what I’d do without her.
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My agents have handled all my book submissions, negotiations, auctions, and contracts, as well as all foreign and subsidiary rights. I can’t imagine going it without a good agent, emphasis on the “good.” A bad agent, or the wrong agent for you, can seriously handicap your ability to move forward in this business.
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The Daily Dahlia 