Net Success: Catching a Publisher

How I Caught a Publisher Unexpectedly

Writer Nancy Jorgenson tells her story of surprise success in landing just the right publisher for her book—one she had never heard of.
5 On: Ian Thomas Healy

5 On: Ian Thomas Healy

In this 5 On interview, author and publisher Ian Thomas Healy shares what he learned from his experiences with literary agents, what to look for when submitting to small press publishers, his feelings about Amazon KDP Select, and more.
Find a Literary Agent

How to Find a Literary Agent for Your Book

A step-by-step guide to finding literary agents, plus how to select the right agent for you and your work.
agents or editors

Should You Submit Your Work to Agents or Editors?

Is it better to look for a literary agent first, or to approach editors and publishers? Much depends on the commercial potential of your work.
author platform

A Definition of Author Platform

Author platform is one of the most difficult concepts to explain, partly because everyone defines it a little differently. Here's what agents and editors mean by platform, plus a clear definition of what platform is NOT.
April Eberhardt

5 On: April Eberhardt

Literary agent and publishing consultant April Eberhardt discusses effective book promotion, what makes writing exceptional from a publishing perspective, her preference for representing women's fiction, and more in this 5 On interview.
The SheepOver

Shepherding a Self-Published Picture Book to Success: A Conversation with Literary Agent Brenda Bowen

Sangeeta Mehta interviews agent Brenda Bowen about the success of the children's picture book Sweet Pea & Friends: The SheepOver.
query letters for nonfiction

How to Write a Query Letter: Nonfiction and Memoir

Learn how to pitch your nonfiction book to agents and publishers—whether you're writing memoir, narrative nonfiction, or prescriptive nonfiction.
Looking up from the bottom of an escalator.

The Agent’s Role in the Digital Age: A Conversation with Jessica Faust

Literary agent Jessica Faust discusses how she helps authors self-publish.
A lit red hand of a crosswalk sign.

3 Ways You’re Sabotaging Your Chances with an Agent

Editor and writing coach Rebecca Faith Heyman discusses three ways you might be sabotaging your prospects with an agent (and how to improve your chances).
Portrait of Chuck Sambuchino

Interview with Chuck Sambuchino: The Keys to Publishing Success

Author and editor Chuck Sambuchino discusses promoting books, the talent writers need, and good writing advice.
Writer's Digest October 2014

The Value of Agent-Assisted Self-Publishing

Read my feature article for Writer's Digest magazine that explores the intersection of literary agents and self-publishing
Sandra Gulland

5 On: Sandra Gulland

Sandra Gulland discusses the delicate process of blending of fact and fiction, the allure of unhappy endings, the publishing industry then vs. now, preparation for public readings/signings, and more.
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5 On: Mollie Glick

Literary agent Mollie Glick on what drew her to being an agent, what kind of query letter gets a quick delete, thoughts on chick lit, and more in this 5 On interview.
Why Your Non-Disclosure Agreement Is Probably a Bad Idea

Why Your Non-Disclosure Agreement Is Probably a Bad Idea

Asking an editor or agent to sign a non-disclosure agreement is not part of traditional publishing business practice.
Harry Bingham between houses

Why Authors Walk Away From Good, Big 5 Publishers

UK author Harry Bingham describes the four stages of his career, and why he's decided to self-publish after good experiences with traditional houses.
Best Business Advice for Writers: August 2013

Best Business Advice for Writers: August 2013

Best Business Advice for Writers is a monthly link round-up where I share the best online articles focused on the business of writing and publishing.
Amazon White Glove program

Agent-Assisted Self-Publishing and the Amazon White Glove Program

There are no “rules” for agent-assisted self-publishing, but the biggest drawbacks are usually loss of control and loss of royalties. All authors should negotiate a contract beforehand that protects their rights and lifetime earnings.
photo by André Freitas

How Do You Know If Your Agent Is Any Good?

I recently received the following question from a writer who wishes to remain anonymous: Every new writer wants to know