Before we get to business, how about a little rampant narcissism? When I was younger, my mother used to accuse me of dressing like a cartoon character. Well, she’s sort of right–on most days I like to fictionalize myself, and this includes wearing a costume. Some days I like to dress like a flapper, on other days a 30s moll (or Mrs. Coulter). Today, I am feeling a retro/60ish vibe, complete with fishnets and heels.
I'm feeling Mad Men-ish today.
And now business. Question and answer time! Well, sort of. Just one question already asked, to which I have something of a long-ish answer.
If I have a New Adult manuscript, whom do I query for representation?
Boss and I have been actively courting different agencies and agents with our “mission”, as it were, so we’re not operating entirely in the dark. We are trying to get the word out (both online and in person) about us and about a publisher who is actively seeking stories that fall into this “in-between” area of adult fiction.
If you are already agented and you think you have a manuscript that might fall into the category into which we are looking to publish, then by all means let your agent know about St. Martin’s new endeavor.
If you are not agented and you have a “new adult” manuscript, well…I’m going to be a bit more cautious here. My advice would to be research agents who represent both young adult and adult fiction and mention that you think your novel fits St. Martin’s new list. However, just because you have a “new adult” manuscript, it doesn’t necessarily mean the agent will take you on. The agent first and foremost has to love your work as it is. Your manuscript needs to work for that agent on many levels: not only does it have to fit into the genres s/he represents, but suit his/her tastes. Just because someone represents fantasy doesn’t necessarily mean your fantasy novel is to his/her taste. Remember, everyone has Hamster of Personal Aesthetic.
While Boss and I hope to highlight this category of fiction, this doesn’t necessarily mean there’s more space to be published. More opportunities? Yes. But make sure your novel is as good as it can be first.
Good advice, as usual. Also, I’m loving the houndstooth jacket. I think it’s a difficult pattern to pull off.
(PS: I received Tempted yesterday, and the note from White Harp. Thanks!!)
I will second what Kristan said–this is very good advice!
It is exciting to see a new initiative for a “new genre.” Fantastic!
Well said. It is all about the personal resonance of the agent.