Are there agents outside of London?

by Don Smith
26th December 2014

Hi - A little tongue-in-cheek maybe...but, I've finished my first novel and going through the rejection phase! If only I could speak to an agent I could die happy! What does one have to do to meet an agent face-to-face in the NORTH?

Replies

If you're near Leeds there are opportunities to meet up with writerly folk with the Big Bookend - Rock Fest for Words. I've booked on the 'Meet the agent with Shelley Instone;' she's an agent and editor. It's a chance to talk with her and one of her authors, June Taylor. Details are on the Big Bookend web site.

All the best.

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Debbie
Coope
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Debbie Coope
30/12/2014

Hi again - and thanks to Adrian, Kimberly, and Grace. I have heard of the YLF and will research it further. I will also look at "...hooking an agent". As you may have guessed this was my first question here after only a few hours browsing the site.

I have been very selective in making submissions - usually, contacting the agency first, by email or phone, to check suitability to their genre list - I've actually had better (more fulsome) responses from publishers than agents so far. It's this relationship with agents I don't quite get - yet: it seems that most are promoting their own successes rather than scouting (with a view to developing) new talent and, more importantly from a business perspective, new markets. If there are any agents out there - defend yourselves!

Thanks again and here's to a good new year to you all.

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Don
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Don Smith
29/12/2014

Hi Don,

I agree with both Kimberly and Adrian. I've been to the 'How to Hook an Agent' event and it's a brilliant place to meet agents. I live in Germany and there were people from all corners of England, so go for it. If travelling is the issue, then get yourself the Year Book mentioned above. You can buy it on Amazon or directly from Wrtiers and Artists. Good luck!

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Grace Akinyi-Devermann
29/12/2014