How to Get a Literary Agent in 2024 | The Strategy That Landed Me 8 Offers
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- Опубликовано: 5 фев 2025
- If your dream is to land a literary agent - today I am sharing exactly how I landed 8 offers from literary agents for my very first manuscript and my 5 top tips that made my author dreams come true.
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HOW TO LAND AN AGENT
Want to learn the exact strategies I used to land 8 agent offers and a 6-figure 2-book deal? Join the waiting list for the second cohort of Query Bootcamp, launching in February 2024!
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Grab my *free* Query Letter Toolkit (which includes the query letter that got me 8 agent offers and my query letter template!): www.laurenkaywrites.com/query-letter
I'm stuck on your #1 tip. I've given my manuscript to 7 people I know and trust, I've joined writing circles, taken classes, joined writing forums and beta reader websites...it's been a year and a half since I finished my manuscript, and the only person who's read it is my mother. I've noticed that so many AuthorTube channels sort of breeze past this step as if it's the easiest one, which may be true for some people. This has not been my experience. I've decided to not let it stop me from writing, but it does mean I have to skip over this step in order to move past it.
It can definitely be hard for people to make the time to read a manuscript - many people barely make time to read books at all these days! I’d recommend two things: 1) find a critique PARTNER, where you’re TRADING manuscripts for feedback. I’ve found that people are a lot willing to do a good job on your feedback if you’re also going to read theirs in return. The chance that you’ll be ‘ghosted’ is a lot smaller if you’re trading. 2) Consider going on a site like fiverr to find a paid beta reader. I did this - it was relatively cheap (< 100 bucks) and it was nice to have a total stranger give their unbiased feedback. You might have to dig a little deeper, but I really do think it’s essential to find readers. Good luck !!
@@laurenkaywrites Thanks for the info! I think paying someone is probably my best bet. Unfortunately, I don't have the money for it right now, and won't for the foreseeable future. (Chronically ill, chronically poor.) I've done the trading manuscripts thing, and didn't have much luck. Everyone wants feedback, but can't find the time to reciprocate. It's been a frustrating year-long journey. Luckily, my mom has been a wonderful critique partner!
My local library has a writing group, maybe check to see if yours does too. Best of luck!
Critique match that's the website I use, it's great you swap critiques.
It's been several years, but I had really good luck with Goodreads in getting beta readers. I've had bad luck posting links here before, so go to goodreads, then group, show and finally 50920-beta-reader-group. Beta readers can be very uneven, so absolutely do not ever, _ever_, make any changes to your MS unless the idea resonates with you so much you can't sleep. If you have a number (like over 3) readers point out the exact same issue, then you probably do have something you need to address. But you simply cannot please all the people all the time, so don't even think about it. That said, I've had useful feedback from readers that _hated_ my stories (Diary of a Contract Killer, a trilogy with a fourth planned) and thought my main character was horrible. I've also got useless feedback from people who loved my stories.
I also very strongly recommend _being_ a beta reader. There's nothing like reading someone else making the exact same mistakes you've been making to drive home the need to internalize craft. I read all or part of nearly 200 novels or short stories for free, as a way to 'give back to the community.' It's also a way to find a critique partner - though don't expect it'll be easy. As Lauren says, you have to have someone who respects what you're trying to do (and vice versa). I beta read for an author who I absolutely loved, but her feedback was basically to rewrite my story the way she wanted it to be.
I would also like to point out that even if you're paying for reading or dev editing (I highly recommend dev editing, particularly for your first, but it is expensive (the saying is: if you want to make money writing, become an editor!)), their suggestions are exactly that, _suggestions_. If it doesn't resonate with you, don't make the changes! It's better to enjoy what you're doing, finish the novel, learn from that experience and work on something new. I wrote two sequels to my first novel while waiting for feedback from readers and editors on my first novel! Your first novel published never needs to be the first novel you've finished!
2:01 📚 She emphasizes the importance of seeking constructive criticism on drafts to improve as a writer.
3:39 🤝 Building connections with fellow writers and forming critique partnerships significantly contributed to her growth.
7:58 💻 Creating a writer website and establishing a web presence proved to be advantageous in attracting literary agents.
8:31 ⏳ Learning patience and ensuring the manuscript was polished before querying agents was crucial for success in the querying process.
If this is any consolation to writers: "Stephen King, Maya Angelou, Hemingway, Bradbury ... on and on ... received stacks of rejection letters before they became world famous: Carrie by Stephen King was rejected by 30 publishers."
It's nothing new, but Amazon is making it worse
Such thoughtful and sweet encouragement. I have been on my writing journey for about a year now, with only about 1-2 months of that spent actually writing. I've spent a lot of time studying the craft, but I'm at a point where I feel like the only way to effectively learn more is to TRY IT OUT.
I am ~6k words into my first draft (goal is 80k-100k for final book, based on my genre research), and my biggest obstacle is consistently setting aside time to write. I have 6 young kids, and they come first, but I know that if I set my mind to it, I could find a few hours/week to write.
I'll be on the lookout for more content from you, Lauren. Thank you for giving back to the writing community!
Hi again Ethan! (Just saw your other comment!) Wow, congratulations on your LOs -- six is a joy but tough I bet, just my one takes up so much time! I wouldn't want to put words into your mouth, but I think that mentally, even just clearing my head to write one hour a week did a lot for my productivity in the time after my daughter's birth.
Trying out is definitely the way to go! You got this! I keep a consistency calendar which helps a lot. :)
@@laurenkaywrites putting it on the calendar is a good idea! I'll block off a couple one-hour blocks on my calendar dedicated to writing over the next few weeks.
Thank you so much for sharing, and being so realistic and honest! I also dont have a background in writing, but I've always loved it, not only that, but as a kid i illustrated my own small stories. I've been writing the 1st draft of a novel for a bit over a year, as well as working on my children's books, I've got separate stories that intertwine, and it can feel hard to find other writers/illustrators like you that want to do both and are gradually working on both. I'm so excited to follow your journey and am grateful for what you've shared today! Congrats!
Thank you so much for your words! It must be a special magic to both write and illustrate your stories. Have you checked out my new critique partner matching service -- it's FREE! It's like Tinder but for finding likeminded writers, haha. Check out my website and sign up for my newsletter to get the info about it and also to get my other free goodies! :) www.laurenkaywrites.com/
Brilliant video, Lauren. Thank you so much for sharing!!
I'd love to hear more about your writing journey, the books that you studied and learnings from each one. It's been a year since I started mine and while I feel like I'm making progress, it doesn't seem to be enough!
Hi! Thanks so much for watching! You’ve given me a great idea for a future video - but for now, a few books that I really love are Save the Cat, the Emotion Thesaurus, and Bird by Bird! When I record my craft book videos, I’ll circle back here and let you know!
Super helpful and actionable tips, Thank you, Lauren!!!
Thank you so much, Brigid!!
This video is so encouraging! Thanks for sharing your tips and so many free resources. It was a breath of fresh air!
I'm so glad! And you're very welcome.
Thank you Lauren for your kindness and encouragements
absolutely!!
Hello, Lauren. Where have you been all my life? I was so enthused to find this video and it's gold. Thank you for helping us out and for all your work. I'll be watching more videos to inspire my writing process. Welcome to my life!
Aw, thanks so much. Glad you found me :)
Oh! I think this was a good start for your RUclips series! Congrats!!! ❤️
Ah thank you Anastasia!!
Thanks for sharing this Lauren! Hoping for your success as an author. Nowadays, there's a lot of digital tools that we can use for our businesses like data append for finding a literary agents. The data append tool emerges as an indispensable asset for authors aiming to connect with book agents and elevate the visibility of their work. This tool conserves time, enhances the precision of your outreach, and allows for a more tailored approach to your communications.
100%! Thanks so much for watching!
This is very inspiring and has great advice.
I'm encoruage and want to keep writing!
Thank you so much for watching - sometimes, we all need a little motivation! You've got this, Jak!
Congrats on your success! I'm in the same boat now. I just started querying my first novel and i need to do better at connecting with other writers who can help me on my journey.
My Critique Partner Connection is totally free and can help you find other writers :) Here's the link: www.laurenkaywrites.com/critique-partner
@@laurenkaywrites Thank you so much!!!!
Omg thank you for providing these tips so openly
Of course!!
Hi Lauren! Nice to meet you and I'm glad I found your channel. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences to help people, it is SO appreciated! I am 40k words into my first novel and really hope I have a different kind of story to share that will engage and resonate with readers. I have subscribed and look forward to more videos from you. All the best to you!
And I gotta say... six figures!! Wow! Congratulations on that!
Hi Dennis! Thanks so much for watching, and I hope that this channel will continue to provide amazing advice and insights into the publishing world! A huge congrats on getting so far into your novel already - finishing the novel is honestly one of the hardest parts of the whole process. I’m sure your story is unique and the world can’t wait to see it! And ha - thank you - I truly UGLY CRIED when I found out. Writing has been life-changing for me. Thank you so much for your support and I’ll see you around ! :-)
Thank you Lauren! Even though I have so much written, some of it still feels like a tangled mess and it is amazing how one slight little change can impact so much of the book, but if it means a better chance to get an offer from a literary agent, it is worth it. I am about to check out your new video now. Have a great day!@@laurenkaywrites
You are such a bright shining joyful soul and this video really helped me feel inspired again to pick up my unfinished novel I keep abandoning ❤
You can do this!
Wow!! This was very inspiring!! Thank you so much for making this video. I related to you so much and your positivity really helped 😊
You are so welcome!
I just discovered your RUclips channel and I really enjoyed your video. I learned so much and I really admire your effort to help others. As my English professor used to say in college, "Write on!"
Write on indeed!!! Thanks so much for watching!
This was so nice, so inspiring, so many thanks!! 😊
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch, A.A.!
@@laurenkaywrites hehe gahh “A.A.” Is such a bane in my life right now. Currently working through a pen name crisis! But yes it was a treat thank you for creating your channel and for writing and for helping others!! Those are the only things that matter. Writing learning growing teaching. It is the true knights code.
This was so helpful and encouraging! Thank you!
I'm so glad! Happy writing :)
great content as always! wish you had a video on how to find your "writer friends"
I've got a free database of writers who are looking for critique partners :) laurenkaywrites.com/critique-partner
@@laurenkaywrites thank you!
Loved the video ❤️ looking forward for more in the future 🤩
I have so much more coming, get ready !! Haha - thank you so much for your support.
SHE FINALLY HAS A RUclips !!!!!! so so excited for your journey on here ! :) 💜💜
Ahhh thank you Alia; I'm so excited to be here!!!
I learned so much!! Thank you!!
Aw thank you!
Hi Lauren! Thank you so much for this helpful video! You mentioned writers mentoring competitions/programs. Do you have any recommendations for programs to consider/apply to? Thank you so much!
Hi! You're welcome :) I'm actually working on a blog post and newsletter about this! Keep your eyes peeled. laurenkaywrites.com/blog
Congrats on your first RUclips!!!! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Aw thanks Bri!!!
Subscribed! While I only write fiction for fun, I really like your videos and have also checked out your toolkit. Thank you for your inspiring content! :)
You're so welcome!
Love this!!
Thanks so much, Mandy!
Studying the craft is one of the best pieces of advice.
WOW. What a great video. Lots of information I needed to start off. I signed up for your Writer Toolkit. Noting came through. So I did it again. Nothing in any inbox or spam. It went to your class sign up page after. Perhaps I doing something wrong?
It came through. Very excited. Thank You
@@happuccinolife9668 Glad it reached you!
I've spent over 10 years in non-credit college writing workshops. They allowed me the ability to write 5 novels. I'm starting my 6th this upcoming semester. In March, I'm going to lose my job and I've been thinking about using the newfound time to hit publishing hard. But it does seem like a daunting task.
You got this!!!
Great stuff. How about a video on what are good things to put on your author website?
Great idea! I do have a video on my channel on Squarespace author websites (but I could always make a second, haha!) - and speaking of websites, I do have a FREE author website template ( www.laurenkaywrites.com/free-resources ) - if you scroll down on here, you’ll see it! It can help you get a website up and running in no time !! (And there are tons more free resources there, too!) And I may be making some future videos on this as well!
@@laurenkaywrites fantastic, thank you Lauren.
Yh, that's all fine and good, but as a writer myself, I'd say that the main two thing that a writer needs above all else, is passion and consistency. You got these two things, and you will get there eventually 👌
Didn’t really get the answer to the question in the title here..although encouraging video
Hey. I've written a book called Murder's No Big Deal that discusses a fictional island that took drastic measures to have people forget about death and move on. Alex comes from America to attempt to right the wrong, but realize that he's getting persuaded by these people. The point of the book is that you only believe something is right or wrong so strongly because you've never heard ideas to the contrary. If anyone knows somebody that might be interested in representing a book like that, please tell me!
So useful! Thanks!
Thanks so much, Lauren!!
@10 minutes in: "Celebrate every little accomplishment" ...
Putting together a few words that have never before been put together in this uniquely genius way is a huge win ... deserving fireworks and sparklers and colorful helium balloons and a flyover of military jets and a marching band playing exciting music ... and a huge party with 100 people ... joyfully congratulating us ...
Hi, new follower here from Puerto Rico. I hope you're doing well.
God bless, take care + happy writing :)
Thank you so much, and to you too! :)
Wow! Thank you algorithm for bringing me this video!! How you describe yourself and situation mirrors me and my writing journey, except I don’t have an agent….YET🎉 My question for you is: Were you nervous about a beta reader taking your idea? Thank you for the tips I’m in my second phase of developmental edits😎
Thank you so much!
You're so welcome!
After the death of my older brother, I wrote my first full length novel. He always told me to pursue writing more than just as a hobby.
I completed my rough draft last year and let some friends and family members read it, and they all said it was phenomenal. I have imposter syndrome pretty bad right now but I started sending query letters to agents. So far I've sent about 20'ish and have had several form rejections. I'm stuck in limbo, not knowing if this really is for me or not.
That's beautiful that you finished your novel, in part for your brother
Great thoughts, good wisdom, and very encouraging.
Can I ask how old you are? I know that writers can start at any age, but as I’m really starting to like your channel, I’m trying to get a sense for how my faves on here got here, gauge how plausible it is (I know, anything is plausible for writers, many of us having vastly unusual backgrounds for how we got started-for me, I have a physical disability that includes cognitive disabilities within it as part of a package deal) that, being almost 40 and not yet published, that uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, i might still have hope? Lmao.
I am in my 30s!
You certainly do not have to be young to be a writer. The vast majority of published writers are over 30. Anything is possible with discipline to your craft, knowledge about querying, and some business savvy. You got this!
Welcome to Authortube! I did a double take with the algo recommended this to me, like, she's usually on my TikTok feed. Welcome ;)
Haha -- I'm EVERYWHERE now! Just kidding. Thanks for your support across all my platforms!
This was so nice ❤
Thank you so much!
I got a Literary Agent immediately with the first draft of a book I ever wrote. He contracted me and then he did let me wait, and wait, and wait. Years went by and I could not publish my book otherwise, as I had a contract with that office. Never again.
Either you are being untruthful or the “literary agent” you found wasn’t legit. Any reputable literary agent that makes a contract with you isn’t going to do that. And there’s no way you would have gotten signed with a real agent on a first draft of a debut novel. 😂
@@JJ367 no lies. It happened with my first book. It was really good.
@@JJ367 why would I be untruthful? Doesn't even make sense! Have nothing better to do than to lie? Gee! Give me a break.
@@Finnleigh.Jackson4141 I don’t have a channel 😂😂🤣🤣
That sounds so frustrating. But don't let one bad agent dissuade you from traditional publishing deals, which for most writers is their best chance at transitioning to full-time writing. I hope your novel makes it out into the world one day!
Thank you for sharing
Thanks YOU for watching!
What do you mean by the DM's of writers? This video has been very helpful. Thank you.
DM = direct messages (i.e. message on social media) :)
I just discovered you for which I cannot be more thankful. 🙏 I was born in NY (Long Island in particular, where I was living for most of my life--I had an apartment in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn for almost a year, beginning upon graduating from college which is in mind as you mentioned you reside in Brooklyn!) though relocated to Virginia last year. I wrote my first children's book manuscript fairly recently and have been quite eager to discover whether I can have it published. It seems that self-publishing will be the feasible method for me as I am not a published author. An attorney in NY had recommended a copyright attorney who, as it turned out, no longer had time to work with me. I met an attorney here; so, have been hoping to ask her if she is willing to recommend a copyright attorney. If you have any advice re copyright attorneys generally, please inform me. I hope you are having a wonderful day, Andrea S.
Hi Andrea! Wow, I'm very familiar with Carroll Gardens, what a place to grow up! I'm sure you have lots of stories -- the neighborhood has changed a lot over the years. Wishing you all the best on your journey to get your children's book out there!
@@laurenkaywrites I just noticed your response. I cannot thank you enough for making this a wonderful day! I am so happy that you're very familiar with that neighborhood. I actually grew up in Searingtown (a small Long Island town), minutes away from Manhasset incidentally. I relocated to the Brooklyn apartment (that I was sharing with two friends from the "Hofstra" days) upon graduating from college. It would be quite intriguing to visit Carroll Gardens again as it has changed a lot, as you mentioned. Next year, I intend to visit Long Island as well as Manhattan and it would be too good to be true to see Brooklyn while in NY. Many thanks, especially, for your words of encouragement and motivation pertaining to my first children's book. 🙏 I yet await a response from a neighbor who is an attorney; so, if none will have been received in a few more days, I will ask the friends whom I have met in Virginia whether they can recommend a copyright attorney. I did not expect to include all these specifics; so, my apologies and your reading this lengthy response is terrifically appreciated! While in mind, your debut book already is in the Amazon cart😊 All the best, Andrea S.
It is so easy to get frustrated. I think all of us can agree on that one. Luck does play into landing an agent. Not all of it is luck but it's there. We can't deny it.
Queried almost 40 agents. Nothing so far. After almost 4 years of writing... it is really frustrating.
I feel you. Troubleshooting your novel can be really tough. Sometimes you just have to move onto a new project!
I wrote an amazing book that has no cookie cutter aspects, so there is my first hurdle. I don't have an MFA or even a BA. I feel like I'll be excluded because... publishers might think that people who haven't reached their level of education should be excluded. I am highly frustrated and intimidated by the process of publishing. Not looking to be an 'also ran'.
Many, many, MANY published and famous authors do not have MFAs or BAs. It's not a requirement for getting published. If you look at the book deal announcements on Publishers Marketplace, folks have all kinds of diverse backgrounds and experiences. It's about creating and publishing good work way more than it's about any degree you do or do not have
You made an author webpage before you got published? Hmm, I haven’t thought about that. To me it just strikes me as a bit arrogant, like fake it before you make it 😂 not saying that’s what you did! But that’s how I’d feel about doing that for myself.
Anyway, thanks for all the great advice! It really lifted my mood. Subbed.
A lot of times we do have to fake it until we make it :) That's not arrogance, that's believing in youtself and knowing that you're not there...yet.
You're welcome! I'm glad to hear it.
Grateful for the tips that can save a writer's butt ☺️ I think a common mistake writers make is they don't get beta readers and don't try to improve their skills. Finding beta readers and/or critique partners is one of my goals for this year.
Yay! And funny that you mentioned that -- I obviously also think it's SO important -- so over the holidays I just launched a FREE critique partner finding service -- it's like Tinder, but instead of bad dates you get awesome writing besties. Check out my website www.laurenkaywrites.com/ and subscribe to my newsletter to get access (you'll also get my amazing other free goodies!!!!). Have an awesome new year!
Hi, I found this really useful (even if I also found it hard to hear, my heart hurts thinking I'm still not ready!), I was wondering what your best suggestions to find more writing friends or critique partners? I got in contact last year with an Author I admired who told me to find a writing group, but my area has none! I'm not sure what to do! Thanks!
personally I think the best place to find writing friends is on writing forums or maybe joining authortubers/booktubers discords? but I don't really trust discord myself.
irl the best place might be libraries! I'm pretty sure they often have writing, uh, stuff going on
This has been the bane of my writing existence! If I didn't have such crappy health, I would start a writing group at my local library. There isn't one yet, so I would have to be the ring leader to get one up and running. I hope you have better luck with this step than I have!
Hi! Just going to copy in some advice I told someone with a similar concern -
I’d recommend two things: 1) find a critique PARTNER, where you’re TRADING manuscripts for feedback. I’ve found that people are a lot willing to do a good job on your feedback if you’re also going to read theirs in return. The chance that you’ll be ‘ghosted’ is a lot smaller if you’re trading. 2) Consider going on a site like fiverr to find a paid beta reader. I did this - it was relatively cheap (< 100 bucks) and it was nice to have a total stranger give their unbiased feedback. You might have to dig a little deeper, but I really do think it’s essential to find readers. Good luck !!
Also, there are LOTS of ONLINE communities for writers - I even set up a HUGE online discord (I no longer moderate that but it’s super active) called We Write at Dawn - if you go to www.laurenkaywrites.com/free-resources and download the Writer Toolkit, there should be an invite link there! :)
I spent the last 10 years writing my book, and 4 of those reworking drafts and querying agents. Now I'm preparing to self-publish. I know the premise is good cause I was asked for a full manu by one of the most prestigious agents in the world who worked with Steven King and JK Rowling. But I haven't heard anything back in a respectable amount of time so I will self-publish.
I think that's an amazing attitude! To be a novelist, you have to be willing to just get your work out there and then keep writing more work. You never know, your next project might very well be traditionally published! Congrats on the full manu request, that's definitely a good sign that your prose is up to par.
@@laurenkaywrites Thank you. When I looked her name up and who her family was I couldn't believe it. Maybe I should have included the full manuscript request with the name drop in my queries lol.
The day I changed 'writer' to 'author' in my bio was surreal
Such a great feeling!! Congrats :)
I majored in literature and I’m still terrified 😂
You got this! You won't get anywhere if you never try!
Hi! Thanks for your helpful video.
I had a question about how you said you make six figures as a writer. Is that over time or per year? Is it from book sales alone or other avenues within writing?
Bold claim, but I have put her name into amazon and nothing comes up
The 6-figure sum was from my book deal for WE SHIP IT! It's just tied to that one project. If I did other projects, they would have to be taken out on sub separately and a deal done for those as well unrelated to this deal. :) Hope that helps!
So glad you want to read! Please feel free to buy a copy: www.amazon.com/We-Ship-Lauren-Kay/dp/0063230992
Can you get an agent if the entire thing isn’t done?
For fiction, you must have the completed manuscript. Don't even think about querying until your manuscript is done! For non-fiction, you query with a proposal, so the work wouldn't have to be done yet.
thanks! I also have a poem book but it has to be with illustrations so would I need a completely designed and formatted version of that? @@laurenkaywrites
Keep writing, pretty soon you'll be a bestseller. I'm rubbish at writing. I can't even put a coherent sentence together, I'm too rubbish to sell my books.
The only way to get better at writing is to keep learning and trying :) And also: ALL writers think this at some point. Literally all of them.
How to get 8 offers on your manuscript: write a decent query letter for literally any female-driven YA novel.
It’s the only fucking thing that anybody’s buying, and they buy it with abandon.
Nailed it. Write YA schlock, slap a woman's name on as the author. Instant sales. I hate the publishing business, and I'm in it. Good luck breaking into science fiction as a middle-aged, white male. lol