Need advice

mysterywriter34

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I need advice. Twelve weeks ago, I signed with my agent. Since then, nothing has happened. When my agent offered representation she mentioned revisions and I agreed. Multiple times agent has said revision notes are on the way. But still nothing.

This agent is with a prominent agency and she has sold books. The agency also represents bestselling authors, so I assumed I’d be in good hands.

I’m afraid to say much, because I’m just happy to have an agent. But, I want to move forward. I’ve outlined other books for a series and started a new novel.

My question is: Am I being impatient? Unreasonable? How long does it typically take to receive revision notes?

I’m not sure how many clients she is working with, but I’m her client now, too. And I'd like some attention.

Thanks in advance for any advice.
 

WendyNYC

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Behind you! Boo.
My agent only took two weeks, but I've heard that sometimes it can take a looooong time to get revision notes. How many times have you nudged? I'd ask again and see if she can give you a firm date.
 

Toothpaste

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Sometimes what can be a nice way to nudge is to write something as follows:

"I was wondering if you had any idea when I might be getting my editorial notes. It doesn't matter to me when that time is, but it would be good for me to know just so I can schedule the coming weeks. I understand that it takes a lot of time to edit a work, and that you are busy with other clients, so no worries if you need some more weeks. But if you have an approximate timeframe, that would be very helpful for me."

Basically you are reassuring the agent that it isn't that you want the notes this second (well of course you do, but you understand why that isn't always possible), but that you just want to know the timeline. It takes the pressure off the agent from having to get it to you right away, and gives you some information as well.
 

Danthia

Do NOT be afraid of your agent. They signed you because they loved your book and want to work with you. They're there to answer your questions, no matter how silly you think those questions are (and most aren't). Ask your agent when you might expect the revisions. There's nothing wrong with checking in to check the status on something. It's possible they just haven't had a chance to get to it yet. Maybe they had a slew of conferences to go to, several contracts in negotiation, deals in play.
 

ChaosTitan

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Three months seems like a long wait, even for a busy agent. As the others have said, don't be afraid to ask. Don't be afraid to nudge. This agent is working for you. It is a busy time in publishing right now, with conferences happening all over the country and in Europe. A status check is not out of line.