First draft

by Melania Giofre
30th October 2016

Hello fellow writers! I have finally summoned the courage to start writing my first fiction story! I'm a blogger so it's a big step from writing short pieces to a full length novel. I'm not a native English speaker, but I've been living in London for a few years now. I don't lie when I say that I'm struggling a bit and I'd love to get a second opinion before submitting anything to a literary agency. How does it work on here? Do members help each other?

Is there a way to get in contact with a freelance agent willing to do that?

I'm new to this any advice is highly appreciated!

Have a great weekend all!

Replies

Hi and welcome!

Nobody seems to have answered one of your important questions: Do members help each other re: editing your ms. Answer is a hearty YES! Post up to 3000 words on "shared works". (You can post more than one.) Easiest way to find sw is via your profile... View work... Add new shared work.

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Jimmy
Hollis i Dickson
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Jimmy Hollis i Dickson
30/10/2016

Hi MG.

As Vicky states you can search on the listings, but be sure to then look on that agent/publisher's website, as some have very strict rules for submissions. Yet more will possibly not be accepting unsolicited work at the moment, so there is no point sending anything to them.

If you find one that is accepting submissions, then try to see to whom your attempt should be addressed and what the company's requirements are. Then make sure to come up with an 'elevator pitch'. That is, a sell for your work that you could give to someone while you are both in an elevator. (And not one going to the top of the Burgh Kalifi.)

You may send your work to 99 people and hear nothing but don't get disheartened. Number 100 could be your lucky shot. Just make certain to give it your best shot.

I shall now look at your entries on the submitted works. I can hardly wait.

And just keep on doing.

Regards,

Pablo.

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Paul
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Paul Jauregui
30/10/2016

Hi, I think there's a listings directory on here so if you know the genre of your work then it might be worth checking there publications out. Stay true to yourself but you may pick up some good advice or make some connections. This seems a step in the right direction. Good luck. I'm new too so I'm just guessing.

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Annie
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Annie Faux-Pas
30/10/2016