Writers' Lodge 6: AGENTS

Who are they, what they do, how to get one.

In this Issue:

• Introduction

• What does an agent do?

• Do you need one?

• How to find an agent

• Writing a covering letter

• More on synopses

• What to submit

PLUS

• An exclusive chat with top agent Clare Conville

  Clare tells us what she looks for and the importance of putting the book first.

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Introduction

On the journey to publication, there are few issues more controversial than that of literary agents. What they do, how to get one, why you need one - these are all topics I’m asked about time and time again. There are many myths and false beliefs about agents, and too many people see them as gatekeepers who are desperate to keep as many people out as possible, as if they believe there’s a finite amount of success in the world and they’re hoarding as much for themselves as possible.

In fact, in my experience, almost the opposite is true. Agents aren’t besuited ogres waiting to demolish your dreams with a swiftly dispatched form rejection letter. They do what they do because they love books, and stories, and (again, in my experience) nothing makes them happier than discovering new talent, a writer they can help to realise their dreams.

So, in this issue of The Writers’ Lodge, let’s try to break down some of the myths, and talk about agents…