confirmation of scam
It took me a few minutes on google to get confirmation that you've been scammed:
_____________
Speculations: The Feedback Zone: The Rumor Mill: "Ask Ann" -- How to Spot the Scam Sharks in the Writing Waters
How do you separate the sheep from the goats when searching for Agents or Publishers? Ask SFWA's "scam watchdog" about it before making a potentially costly mistake!
Messages posted before #2582 may be found in the Archives
Message #2583 left by Mistaken Identity on Jan 25, 2002 at 22:55
Has anybody had any experiences with Beverly A. Maycunich and her Southern Literary Group down in Arkansas?
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Message #2584 left by Helen on Jan 25, 2002 at 23:30
Re: Post# 2583
Southern Literary has been discussed on this board before, and unfortunately, some of the discussions were not exactly to this agency's credit. Click on "Rumor Mill" at the top of the page, and type in: "Southern Literary", to view these posts.
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Message #2585 left by Aaron on Jan 26, 2002 at 1:26
Ann, thank you very much for the information. I'll go and ask John Savage his views on my contract. Like you said, I'm completely dissatisfied with Helping Hand and would like to go some place more reputable instead of waiting through until this contract ends. Once again thank you.
-Aaron
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Message #2586 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 26, 2002 at 11:36
Good luck with this, Aaron. Titsworth is a piece of work, and it's best to avoid him. I erred in sending him a novel query on a busy day without my usual check of AAR and Writer Beware. When I did check, I immediately emailed him on the same day to consider my query withdrawn. He'd have received the notice days before getting my material. Lo and behold, I later got an absurdly long letter stating why they wanted to see the full manuscript.
I responded again by email, thanked him, explained that the manuscript is now with a New York agent, and tried to be nice,
stating I'd keep his letter on file for possible future reference. (It's filed in the wastebasket!) I also reminded him that he had been notified PRIOR to getting the query.
This evidently did not sit well with George. He emailed me, "You
wasted my time! We will not accept further submissions from you!"
Awwww, too bad. The man is definitely unprofessional.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2587 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 26, 2002 at 12:43
Has anyone noticed how Titsworth's grammar and punctuation degenrates to a third grade level when he's no longer sure you're going to sign his contract? His signoffs also go from "George Harrison Titsworth, Helping Hand Literary Agency, etc, etc" to an austere "geo t"
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Message #2588 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 26, 2002 at 17:22
Yes Michael,I noticed! Also that his own books are claimed to be available at Amazon.com, but they're not. His personal genres are quite fascinating: Time travel/western romance (a single genre!),women with plural husbands,and one book about a mutant jackrabbit. A very creative fellow in more ways than one, with a temper he doesn't mind displaying.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2589 left by Aaron on Jan 27, 2002 at 0:57
Hey Guys. Couldn't help but crack a smile at your comments. Everything I have from HHLS ends with "Geo T", and I've noticed the difficulties in finding books available by his "numerous" authors. But have you noticed that whatever books are available are published by POD's? Including his own. This alone makes me wary.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2590 left by William K. on Jan 27, 2002 at 13:05
I've been searching for a publisher, like everybody else, I guess. Has anyone had any dealings with River City Publishing in Montgomery, Alabama? I can't find much about them and I'd like some feedback before I approach them. Any help would be greatly appreciated. This is a great site, by the way!
William K.
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Message #2591 left by Steve Lukac on Jan 27, 2002 at 16:40
William
I met two River City Honchos at a company meeting last summer and while we talked, both expressed interest in seeing my ms. I sent it to them immediately in the format they requested and have yet to hear back. I tried to follow up about a month ago, and received no response to that either.
However, I read recently that Robert McCammon's new novel (his first since the mid 90s) will be published through them. No pluses or minuses from me, just some info.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2592 left by William K. on Jan 27, 2002 at 17:49
Thanks, Steve. I appreciate the input.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2593 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 27, 2002 at 21:42
Aaron: he actually capitalized it for you? Impressive...you didn't sign his contract, did you? If you did, you've witnessed your biggest benefit. ;p
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Message #2594 left by mason on Jan 28, 2002 at 12:53
Hi guys,
Anyone has any information or feedback from a small publisher named LEAPFROG PRESS and a Mr. Ira Wood?
Would appreciate some input.
Thank you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2595 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:03
This may be of special interest to Aaron.
Here's the latest in my evidently ongoing saga with George Harrison Titsworth of Helping Hand Literary Services. (If I can stop laughing long enough to type it!) In earlier "episodes", I related how I emailed him a withdrawal of my novel query before the material even reached him, having discovered he is NOT anyone with whom I care to work. He read it anyway, and requested the full manuscript. I responded politely and truthfully that it's now with a New York agent, and not available. GT emailed "You wasted my time. We will not accept further submissions from you!"
I responded as succinctly with "Never fear, I won't send you a thing." Today he emailed "And some say prayers are never answered!"
LOL Pehaps I'm an angel in disguise??
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2596 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:08
Barbara: LOL...that sounds almost as immature as I used to be when I dealt with the occasional unprovoked flamer who would respond to my weekly columns. An endless, pointless and highly unprofessional repartee. I wonder what'll happen if I e-mail him a joke manuscript from one of my hotmail accounts?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2597 left by Helen on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:40
Re: Post# 2596
Michael,
I REALLY wish you would !!!! I'd just LOVE to see him take your absolutely priceless, "Killer-Clone Tanks" bait. LOL
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2598 left by Emanuel on Jan 28, 2002 at 19:23
Anyone out there know anything about an agency called PMA Literary and Film Management and Mr. Peter Miller? Please enlighten.
Emanuel.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2599 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 28, 2002 at 20:01
Michael:
How can you resist not sending something to Titsworth? I double dare you, LOL.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2600 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 28, 2002 at 20:48
Two requests? A double dare? Alright, there's no way I'm resisting this. Consider it in the works.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2601 left by Aaron on Jan 29, 2002 at 1:42
Hi guys. Well, obviously I've made one of my biggest mistakes by signing that contract with Titsworth. I plan to follow some recent advice given on this site and respectfully request a cancellation of the contract. And if he does not comply, I'll query other agents anyway. He got my money; that's all that probably matters to him.
Michael, by the way, I like Barbara's idea. Go for it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2602 left by Jim on Jan 29, 2002 at 9:24
Emanuel - Check the archives for PMA. I know Peter Miller has come up before. I sent him a query and sample chapters a while back and got a personal and encouraging "No thank you". The only possible caution that I know of is that his contract included a bit about charging authors for office fees (copying, etc...)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2603 left by Jim on Jan 29, 2002 at 9:28
Follow up: You should also scan the "Agents: The good, the bad, and the ugly" topic archives.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2604 left by qudsia hussain on Jan 29, 2002 at 13:18
wassup!!!!!!!!!!how you doing
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2605 left by Helen on Jan 30, 2002 at 10:53
Hi All
Would appreciate info from anyone who has a good list of agents for the Women's Fiction genre.
Thanks.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2606 left by DavidB on Jan 31, 2002 at 11:24
Maybe I'm in the wrong topic area, but can anyone recommend a good resource of publishers that accept un-agented queries? I've got the Writer Digest resources (Writers Market, etc.) but I know their accuracy is sometimes questionable. Thanks in advance.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2607 left by Lucy on Jan 31, 2002 at 13:25
Hi guys,
I've been reading the site for a while, but this is my first time posting. I'm in the lucky situation of having just found an agent that wants to represent me. She checks out on AAR, she's definitely got a sales record, and when we talked on the phone I really liked her. I haven't seen the contract yet but have no reason to think she's anything but a reputable, respected agent.
Here's the issue: she's in LA, and she's not with an agency. Now, I have 2 other agents that were interested in the complete manuscript, but this LA agent requested an exclusive which I agreed to. The other two agents are in New York, and both work for larger, well-respected agencies. The LA agent is on her own. I was all set to sign with the LA agent -- and I'm still planning to -- but several of my writer friends say I should go with one of the NY agents instead, because they're with larger agencies and because they're in NY. I asked the LA agent about how she dealt with NY publishers, and her response was that for fiction it's less important to be in NY, that she visits there frequently, and that she has good relations with a number of top publishers (she worked in NY publishing for years).
My feelings are:
a) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and the NY agents haven't even read the complete novel yet and might not even like it, and;
b) In this day and age, LA must be practically as good as NY, and;
c) One agent on his/her own, but who has good contacts, can do just as good a job as an agent who's part of a larger agency.
But then, those friends of mine keep saying "Go with NY, go with the larger agency." What do you all think?
[Sorry for not posting my e-mail address. I'm trying to cut down on the level of junk mail I receive, and not putting your address out on web pages is supposed to help.]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2608 left by Michael on Jan 31, 2002 at 14:46
I was hoping for some advice on the following -- I had my first novel published last spring and am almost done with my follow-up. The publisher I was with has a "first look" at the second book and seems enthusiastic about publishing it. My question is this, I left my first agent after the first book was published so I am currently unrepresented. Since the publisher has a "first look" anyway, do any of you think it necessary I go out and try to find a new agent now or wait and see after the publisher makes a decision on the first look?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2609 left by Helen on Jan 31, 2002 at 15:23
Re: Post #2607
Lucy,
One of the points you've made is very possible. If the 2 NY agents have not yet seen the *entire* work, then there are certainly *no* guarantees regarding their *final* decision to represent you. Therefore, you're right about having a "bird in the hand" with the LA agent's enthusiasm toward your manuscript.
Anyway, best of luck with whatever you decide to do.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2610 left by Lenora Rose on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:43
Michael - I'd get a new agent now if possible, though of course, nothing's necessary until the publisher hands you a contract. That way, you're ready ahead of time if this publisher says aye, and if they say no, then.... you're still ready ahead of time for the great publisher hunt.
Lucy - FWIW, There's at least one LA Agency on my "highly respected, send to early" list (in fact, the one who asked for a partial MS so far, though alas, they said no after that point), and a couple more on my "I'd certainly query and definitely take." New York is THE major centre, but LA is in second place. It's not like it's some dweeb in Winnipeg... I will not, however, give you specific advice, since I know none of the agencies involved. Use your best judgement, and good luck.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2611 left by Anna on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:47
Lucy,
I had an AAR LA agent and have changed to a NY agent because of "problems". If you don't want to write the agent's name, maybe you could just put the initials or give me some other way I can identify the LA agent, then I can let you know if it's the same one.
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Message #2612 left by Lucy on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:59
The LA agent is BJ Robbins. As I mentioned before, she's been nothing but professional so far, and I'm really excited that she's enthusiastic about my novel. She seems like a very intelligent person. It's just the whole NY/LA issue, and the fact that she's not with an agency. My ambivalence may also have something to do with the old Groucho Marx line about not wanting to belong to any club that would have me as a member. I've been submitting to agents for a couple of months now, with no takers: there must be *something* wrong with this one or else she wouldn't want me!!
If it helps, the two NY agents are with Joelle Delbourgo Associates and Sanford J. Greenburger Associates. They've read lengthy sample chapters but not the entire book. I guess I'm mainly just looking for reassurance that I'm making the right decision.
Lucy
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Message #2613 left by Roland on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:03
Oh, Lucy, you have a gold-plated problem. I think you should let the two NY agents know that you have an offer for your book, but let them have a chance to read it. The LA agent probably isn't going anywhere, and the publishing business moves very slowly anyway. If one or both of the NY agents wants to represent you, then decide which one of the two (3) you're most comfortable with. Sounds as if you're in the driver's seat with this one. Take your time. The author/agent relationship can last a lifetime if it's the right one. None of the agents is going to "drop" you while you decide, because it sounds as if your book is a winner, and that's what they pray for.
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Message #2614 left by Naomi Kritzer on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:17
I'd go with the LA agent. But, my novel was sold to Bantam by an agent who lives in Madison, Wisconsin. (A real agent, not a fake one; he lives in Madison, travels to NYC a lot.) It's a little unusual, and MOST of the so-called agents who live in the boondocks are scammers, but there are legitimate and highly respected exceptions.
Also, if you ever want to write screenplays, you'll be much further ahead with an agent in LA...
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Message #2615 left by Anna on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:17
Lucy, she's not my "problems" agent. Her name is familiar, but I don't know anything about her. Your feeling about the Groucho Marx line made me laugh. I'm sure they want your book because it's good. You'd never get an offer for representation and two "possibles" if that weren't the case. As Roland said, take your time. But, if BJ Robbins is a member of AAR, she must be fine. Also, the boutique agents (the small ones) sometimes give new authors more attention than the huge agencies, and the fact that she worked in publishing for years before opening her agency is a definite plus.
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Message #2616 left by Lois Tilton on Jan 31, 2002 at 22:46
Michael, now is a very good time to look for a new agent since it is likely they will not have to market the book to publishers. You can still benefit from an agent's negotiation of the contract.
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Message #2617 left by ACCrispin on Feb 1, 2002 at 7:07
If the LA agent has a good track record of sales, and makes frequent trips to NY to have "face time" with editors, I see no reason not to go with her. It's great that she loves your book.
Congratulations, you're in the catbird seat!
-Ann C. Crispin
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Message #2618 left by Victoria Strauss on Feb 1, 2002 at 10:26
Lucy--I've heard good things about BJ Robbins, whose name appears from time to time in the trade press. Location is increasingly unimportant these days--as long as the agent really does have those NYC contacts, and makes regular business trips to get "face time", as Ann said. I also agree that being with a larger agency isn't always all it's cracked up to be--a first time or midlist writer can get lost in a large, multi-agent environment (I speak from experience), whereas with a single-agent shop you may well get more personal and immediate attention. Given the good rep of the agent, and her enthusiasm about your work, this sounds like a good chance. Congratulations.
Michael--even if the publisher's purchase of your second book is a done deal, there's still the contract to be negotiated, and also the issue of subrights, which you may have a better chance of selling now with two books under your belt (this also gives you more to offer a potential agent, since you bring with you any unsold rights to your first book). If I were you, I'd be looking for an agent now.
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Message #2619 left by Lucy on Feb 1, 2002 at 10:38
Thanks for all the good advice. You've reaffirmed my decision to go with the LA agent.
I wouldn't feel comfortable senging the book off to the NY agents and expecting this LA agent to just wait for me. I've certainly seen discussion on this board with agents who are upset that authors have decided to go with someone else, for no good reason, even after the agent has spent a lot of time and effort with them. This LA agent is a member of AAR, has a good track record, and is enthusiastic about my book. The fact that she's not with a huge agency may actually work in my favor, so I don't really see any reason not to go with her. Asking her to wait while I run the book past two other agents seems like sort of shabby treatment. And I need all the good karma I can get right now!
Thanks again for all the advice. If this agent doesn't work out, for whatever reason, I'll be back for more.
Lucy
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Message #2620 left by Michael on Feb 1, 2002 at 13:27
Thanks everyone for your input - I really appreciate it. It seems all agree I should get a new agent, so I will begin again!
Michael
p.s. I think I was just hesitant to start the process again.
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Message #2621 left by Jennifer on Feb 2, 2002 at 19:06
Re #2605 and #2606, Helen and DavidB,
What I do is go to the library to look at The Literary Marketplace 2002. They have lists of both agents and publishers, and they list genres for each. Then I cross-check the names I get from this list with the AAR homepage, Preditors/Editors page, and the archives of Ask Ann. If they check out okay, then I send them what they specify they want in The Literary Marketplace. HTH. Jennifer
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Message #2622 left by Helen on Feb 2, 2002 at 21:13
Thanks Jennifer. I've been doing almost the same exact thing, but mainly with Guide to Literary Agents. So,I'll have a look at LMP 2002 soon and see what's listed there.
Thanks again.
Helen
It took me a few minutes on google to get confirmation that you've been scammed:
_____________
Speculations: The Feedback Zone: The Rumor Mill: "Ask Ann" -- How to Spot the Scam Sharks in the Writing Waters
How do you separate the sheep from the goats when searching for Agents or Publishers? Ask SFWA's "scam watchdog" about it before making a potentially costly mistake!
Messages posted before #2582 may be found in the Archives
Message #2583 left by Mistaken Identity on Jan 25, 2002 at 22:55
Has anybody had any experiences with Beverly A. Maycunich and her Southern Literary Group down in Arkansas?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2584 left by Helen on Jan 25, 2002 at 23:30
Re: Post# 2583
Southern Literary has been discussed on this board before, and unfortunately, some of the discussions were not exactly to this agency's credit. Click on "Rumor Mill" at the top of the page, and type in: "Southern Literary", to view these posts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2585 left by Aaron on Jan 26, 2002 at 1:26
Ann, thank you very much for the information. I'll go and ask John Savage his views on my contract. Like you said, I'm completely dissatisfied with Helping Hand and would like to go some place more reputable instead of waiting through until this contract ends. Once again thank you.
-Aaron
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Message #2586 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 26, 2002 at 11:36
Good luck with this, Aaron. Titsworth is a piece of work, and it's best to avoid him. I erred in sending him a novel query on a busy day without my usual check of AAR and Writer Beware. When I did check, I immediately emailed him on the same day to consider my query withdrawn. He'd have received the notice days before getting my material. Lo and behold, I later got an absurdly long letter stating why they wanted to see the full manuscript.
I responded again by email, thanked him, explained that the manuscript is now with a New York agent, and tried to be nice,
stating I'd keep his letter on file for possible future reference. (It's filed in the wastebasket!) I also reminded him that he had been notified PRIOR to getting the query.
This evidently did not sit well with George. He emailed me, "You
wasted my time! We will not accept further submissions from you!"
Awwww, too bad. The man is definitely unprofessional.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2587 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 26, 2002 at 12:43
Has anyone noticed how Titsworth's grammar and punctuation degenrates to a third grade level when he's no longer sure you're going to sign his contract? His signoffs also go from "George Harrison Titsworth, Helping Hand Literary Agency, etc, etc" to an austere "geo t"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2588 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 26, 2002 at 17:22
Yes Michael,I noticed! Also that his own books are claimed to be available at Amazon.com, but they're not. His personal genres are quite fascinating: Time travel/western romance (a single genre!),women with plural husbands,and one book about a mutant jackrabbit. A very creative fellow in more ways than one, with a temper he doesn't mind displaying.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2589 left by Aaron on Jan 27, 2002 at 0:57
Hey Guys. Couldn't help but crack a smile at your comments. Everything I have from HHLS ends with "Geo T", and I've noticed the difficulties in finding books available by his "numerous" authors. But have you noticed that whatever books are available are published by POD's? Including his own. This alone makes me wary.
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Message #2590 left by William K. on Jan 27, 2002 at 13:05
I've been searching for a publisher, like everybody else, I guess. Has anyone had any dealings with River City Publishing in Montgomery, Alabama? I can't find much about them and I'd like some feedback before I approach them. Any help would be greatly appreciated. This is a great site, by the way!
William K.
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Message #2591 left by Steve Lukac on Jan 27, 2002 at 16:40
William
I met two River City Honchos at a company meeting last summer and while we talked, both expressed interest in seeing my ms. I sent it to them immediately in the format they requested and have yet to hear back. I tried to follow up about a month ago, and received no response to that either.
However, I read recently that Robert McCammon's new novel (his first since the mid 90s) will be published through them. No pluses or minuses from me, just some info.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2592 left by William K. on Jan 27, 2002 at 17:49
Thanks, Steve. I appreciate the input.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2593 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 27, 2002 at 21:42
Aaron: he actually capitalized it for you? Impressive...you didn't sign his contract, did you? If you did, you've witnessed your biggest benefit. ;p
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Message #2594 left by mason on Jan 28, 2002 at 12:53
Hi guys,
Anyone has any information or feedback from a small publisher named LEAPFROG PRESS and a Mr. Ira Wood?
Would appreciate some input.
Thank you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2595 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:03
This may be of special interest to Aaron.
Here's the latest in my evidently ongoing saga with George Harrison Titsworth of Helping Hand Literary Services. (If I can stop laughing long enough to type it!) In earlier "episodes", I related how I emailed him a withdrawal of my novel query before the material even reached him, having discovered he is NOT anyone with whom I care to work. He read it anyway, and requested the full manuscript. I responded politely and truthfully that it's now with a New York agent, and not available. GT emailed "You wasted my time. We will not accept further submissions from you!"
I responded as succinctly with "Never fear, I won't send you a thing." Today he emailed "And some say prayers are never answered!"
LOL Pehaps I'm an angel in disguise??
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2596 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:08
Barbara: LOL...that sounds almost as immature as I used to be when I dealt with the occasional unprovoked flamer who would respond to my weekly columns. An endless, pointless and highly unprofessional repartee. I wonder what'll happen if I e-mail him a joke manuscript from one of my hotmail accounts?
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Message #2597 left by Helen on Jan 28, 2002 at 15:40
Re: Post# 2596
Michael,
I REALLY wish you would !!!! I'd just LOVE to see him take your absolutely priceless, "Killer-Clone Tanks" bait. LOL
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Message #2598 left by Emanuel on Jan 28, 2002 at 19:23
Anyone out there know anything about an agency called PMA Literary and Film Management and Mr. Peter Miller? Please enlighten.
Emanuel.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2599 left by Barbara Lake on Jan 28, 2002 at 20:01
Michael:
How can you resist not sending something to Titsworth? I double dare you, LOL.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2600 left by Michael Greenhut on Jan 28, 2002 at 20:48
Two requests? A double dare? Alright, there's no way I'm resisting this. Consider it in the works.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2601 left by Aaron on Jan 29, 2002 at 1:42
Hi guys. Well, obviously I've made one of my biggest mistakes by signing that contract with Titsworth. I plan to follow some recent advice given on this site and respectfully request a cancellation of the contract. And if he does not comply, I'll query other agents anyway. He got my money; that's all that probably matters to him.
Michael, by the way, I like Barbara's idea. Go for it.
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Message #2602 left by Jim on Jan 29, 2002 at 9:24
Emanuel - Check the archives for PMA. I know Peter Miller has come up before. I sent him a query and sample chapters a while back and got a personal and encouraging "No thank you". The only possible caution that I know of is that his contract included a bit about charging authors for office fees (copying, etc...)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2603 left by Jim on Jan 29, 2002 at 9:28
Follow up: You should also scan the "Agents: The good, the bad, and the ugly" topic archives.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2604 left by qudsia hussain on Jan 29, 2002 at 13:18
wassup!!!!!!!!!!how you doing
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2605 left by Helen on Jan 30, 2002 at 10:53
Hi All
Would appreciate info from anyone who has a good list of agents for the Women's Fiction genre.
Thanks.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2606 left by DavidB on Jan 31, 2002 at 11:24
Maybe I'm in the wrong topic area, but can anyone recommend a good resource of publishers that accept un-agented queries? I've got the Writer Digest resources (Writers Market, etc.) but I know their accuracy is sometimes questionable. Thanks in advance.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2607 left by Lucy on Jan 31, 2002 at 13:25
Hi guys,
I've been reading the site for a while, but this is my first time posting. I'm in the lucky situation of having just found an agent that wants to represent me. She checks out on AAR, she's definitely got a sales record, and when we talked on the phone I really liked her. I haven't seen the contract yet but have no reason to think she's anything but a reputable, respected agent.
Here's the issue: she's in LA, and she's not with an agency. Now, I have 2 other agents that were interested in the complete manuscript, but this LA agent requested an exclusive which I agreed to. The other two agents are in New York, and both work for larger, well-respected agencies. The LA agent is on her own. I was all set to sign with the LA agent -- and I'm still planning to -- but several of my writer friends say I should go with one of the NY agents instead, because they're with larger agencies and because they're in NY. I asked the LA agent about how she dealt with NY publishers, and her response was that for fiction it's less important to be in NY, that she visits there frequently, and that she has good relations with a number of top publishers (she worked in NY publishing for years).
My feelings are:
a) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, and the NY agents haven't even read the complete novel yet and might not even like it, and;
b) In this day and age, LA must be practically as good as NY, and;
c) One agent on his/her own, but who has good contacts, can do just as good a job as an agent who's part of a larger agency.
But then, those friends of mine keep saying "Go with NY, go with the larger agency." What do you all think?
[Sorry for not posting my e-mail address. I'm trying to cut down on the level of junk mail I receive, and not putting your address out on web pages is supposed to help.]
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Message #2608 left by Michael on Jan 31, 2002 at 14:46
I was hoping for some advice on the following -- I had my first novel published last spring and am almost done with my follow-up. The publisher I was with has a "first look" at the second book and seems enthusiastic about publishing it. My question is this, I left my first agent after the first book was published so I am currently unrepresented. Since the publisher has a "first look" anyway, do any of you think it necessary I go out and try to find a new agent now or wait and see after the publisher makes a decision on the first look?
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Message #2609 left by Helen on Jan 31, 2002 at 15:23
Re: Post #2607
Lucy,
One of the points you've made is very possible. If the 2 NY agents have not yet seen the *entire* work, then there are certainly *no* guarantees regarding their *final* decision to represent you. Therefore, you're right about having a "bird in the hand" with the LA agent's enthusiasm toward your manuscript.
Anyway, best of luck with whatever you decide to do.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2610 left by Lenora Rose on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:43
Michael - I'd get a new agent now if possible, though of course, nothing's necessary until the publisher hands you a contract. That way, you're ready ahead of time if this publisher says aye, and if they say no, then.... you're still ready ahead of time for the great publisher hunt.
Lucy - FWIW, There's at least one LA Agency on my "highly respected, send to early" list (in fact, the one who asked for a partial MS so far, though alas, they said no after that point), and a couple more on my "I'd certainly query and definitely take." New York is THE major centre, but LA is in second place. It's not like it's some dweeb in Winnipeg...
I will not, however, give you specific advice, since I know none of the agencies involved. Use your best judgement, and good luck.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message #2611 left by Anna on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:47
Lucy,
I had an AAR LA agent and have changed to a NY agent because of "problems". If you don't want to write the agent's name, maybe you could just put the initials or give me some other way I can identify the LA agent, then I can let you know if it's the same one.
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Message #2612 left by Lucy on Jan 31, 2002 at 16:59
The LA agent is BJ Robbins. As I mentioned before, she's been nothing but professional so far, and I'm really excited that she's enthusiastic about my novel. She seems like a very intelligent person. It's just the whole NY/LA issue, and the fact that she's not with an agency. My ambivalence may also have something to do with the old Groucho Marx line about not wanting to belong to any club that would have me as a member. I've been submitting to agents for a couple of months now, with no takers: there must be *something* wrong with this one or else she wouldn't want me!!
If it helps, the two NY agents are with Joelle Delbourgo Associates and Sanford J. Greenburger Associates. They've read lengthy sample chapters but not the entire book. I guess I'm mainly just looking for reassurance that I'm making the right decision.
Lucy
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Message #2613 left by Roland on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:03
Oh, Lucy, you have a gold-plated problem. I think you should let the two NY agents know that you have an offer for your book, but let them have a chance to read it. The LA agent probably isn't going anywhere, and the publishing business moves very slowly anyway. If one or both of the NY agents wants to represent you, then decide which one of the two (3) you're most comfortable with. Sounds as if you're in the driver's seat with this one. Take your time. The author/agent relationship can last a lifetime if it's the right one. None of the agents is going to "drop" you while you decide, because it sounds as if your book is a winner, and that's what they pray for.
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Message #2614 left by Naomi Kritzer on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:17
I'd go with the LA agent. But, my novel was sold to Bantam by an agent who lives in Madison, Wisconsin
. (A real agent, not a fake one; he lives in Madison, travels to NYC a lot.) It's a little unusual, and MOST of the so-called agents who live in the boondocks are scammers, but there are legitimate and highly respected exceptions. Also, if you ever want to write screenplays, you'll be much further ahead with an agent in LA...
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Message #2615 left by Anna on Jan 31, 2002 at 17:17
Lucy, she's not my "problems" agent. Her name is familiar, but I don't know anything about her. Your feeling about the Groucho Marx line made me laugh. I'm sure they want your book because it's good. You'd never get an offer for representation and two "possibles" if that weren't the case. As Roland said, take your time. But, if BJ Robbins is a member of AAR, she must be fine. Also, the boutique agents (the small ones) sometimes give new authors more attention than the huge agencies, and the fact that she worked in publishing for years before opening her agency is a definite plus.
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Message #2616 left by Lois Tilton on Jan 31, 2002 at 22:46
Michael, now is a very good time to look for a new agent since it is likely they will not have to market the book to publishers. You can still benefit from an agent's negotiation of the contract.
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Message #2617 left by ACCrispin on Feb 1, 2002 at 7:07
If the LA agent has a good track record of sales, and makes frequent trips to NY to have "face time" with editors, I see no reason not to go with her. It's great that she loves your book.
Congratulations, you're in the catbird seat!
-Ann C. Crispin
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Message #2618 left by Victoria Strauss on Feb 1, 2002 at 10:26
Lucy--I've heard good things about BJ Robbins, whose name appears from time to time in the trade press. Location is increasingly unimportant these days--as long as the agent really does have those NYC contacts, and makes regular business trips to get "face time", as Ann said. I also agree that being with a larger agency isn't always all it's cracked up to be--a first time or midlist writer can get lost in a large, multi-agent environment (I speak from experience), whereas with a single-agent shop you may well get more personal and immediate attention. Given the good rep of the agent, and her enthusiasm about your work, this sounds like a good chance. Congratulations.
Michael--even if the publisher's purchase of your second book is a done deal, there's still the contract to be negotiated, and also the issue of subrights, which you may have a better chance of selling now with two books under your belt (this also gives you more to offer a potential agent, since you bring with you any unsold rights to your first book). If I were you, I'd be looking for an agent now.
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Message #2619 left by Lucy on Feb 1, 2002 at 10:38
Thanks for all the good advice. You've reaffirmed my decision to go with the LA agent.
I wouldn't feel comfortable senging the book off to the NY agents and expecting this LA agent to just wait for me. I've certainly seen discussion on this board with agents who are upset that authors have decided to go with someone else, for no good reason, even after the agent has spent a lot of time and effort with them. This LA agent is a member of AAR, has a good track record, and is enthusiastic about my book. The fact that she's not with a huge agency may actually work in my favor, so I don't really see any reason not to go with her. Asking her to wait while I run the book past two other agents seems like sort of shabby treatment. And I need all the good karma I can get right now!
Thanks again for all the advice. If this agent doesn't work out, for whatever reason, I'll be back for more.
Lucy
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Message #2620 left by Michael on Feb 1, 2002 at 13:27
Thanks everyone for your input - I really appreciate it. It seems all agree I should get a new agent, so I will begin again!
Michael
p.s. I think I was just hesitant to start the process again.
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Message #2621 left by Jennifer on Feb 2, 2002 at 19:06
Re #2605 and #2606, Helen and DavidB,
What I do is go to the library to look at The Literary Marketplace 2002. They have lists of both agents and publishers, and they list genres for each. Then I cross-check the names I get from this list with the AAR homepage, Preditors/Editors page, and the archives of Ask Ann. If they check out okay, then I send them what they specify they want in The Literary Marketplace. HTH. Jennifer
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Message #2622 left by Helen on Feb 2, 2002 at 21:13
Thanks Jennifer. I've been doing almost the same exact thing, but mainly with Guide to Literary Agents. So,I'll have a look at LMP 2002 soon and see what's listed there.
Thanks again.
Helen
