Am I crazy?

[Jody]

I'm asking a question that I originally posted on the newbie forum. Sorry.
After finally getting enough nerve, I sent out seven query letters. One agent invited me to send my proposal. She has now "graded" the proposal twice and has made some suggestions that I like. However, I am starting to think that this agent just doesn't "get" me or my book. She has done what looks to me like lots of work on the proposals, but the suggested changes will take my concept from unique to boring. She has never actually offered to be my agent, so what is my obligation to her? When her listing says"Prefers to read materials exclusively" does this apply to proposals? Can I just start over with query letters to other agents without breaking any literary rules? Am I crazy for wanting to look elsewhere when I have someone who seems interested in me? Or, do I go with my gut feeling that this would not be a good match? I am totally inexperienced and any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, J.

[Popeyesays]

I'm asking a question that I originally posted on the newbie forum. Sorry.
After finally getting enough nerve, I sent out seven query letters. One agent invited me to send my proposal. She has now "graded" the proposal twice and has made some suggestions that I like. However, I am starting to think that this agent just doesn't "get" me or my book. She has done what looks to me like lots of work on the proposals, but the suggested changes will take my concept from unique to boring. She has never actually offered to be my agent, so what is my obligation to her? When her listing says"Prefers to read materials exclusively" does this apply to proposals? Can I just start over with query letters to other agents without breaking any literary rules? Am I crazy for wanting to look elsewhere when I have someone who seems interested in me? Or, do I go with my gut feeling that this would not be a good match? I am totally inexperienced and any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, J.

You could just ask flat-out: "Are you offering representation or not?" And explain that you need to know whether to continue the query process you have interrupted.

If you get a firm offer, then ask your other questions. It will be more appropriate at that point. You can always break the relationship if the agent is not in synch with your project.

Don't ever sign a contract that does not offer an out for any reason.

Regards,
Scott

[Jamesaritchie]

Were it me, this is a case where I might well do both. If this is a good agent, I'd rework the proposal according to her wishes and see where it lead. But I'd also keep right on submitting the original version elsewhere.

[Jody]

Thank you Scott and Jamesaritchie. I wish I felt more comfortable asking her questions, but she scares me.

[triceretops]

Jody, I have a real good idea for you. Generally we already know in the Bewares thread, who has been bad and who has been good, in an agent sort of way. You might want to visit that thread and state your case and drop this agent's name. If you don't feel like it, get a hold of Victoria Strauss privately, and ask if this agent is on the up and up.

Now, you also admit to being a new writer. Just make sure you're not over-reacting here. Many, many top-flight agents work with you, suggest changes (that are often very correct), and check out your rewrites, before ANY mention of representation. They do this to protect themselves, get a personal feel for you, and also observe how you handle the direction of rewrites and polishing. If you find out this is a good, reputable agent then I would certainly follow the course with this agent and see where it leads. What you are describing is what happened to me before I was accepted.

Did she ask for an exlusive with a time limit? If she didn't state the time factor, then it's up to you to step in there and give her a deadline. Three-weeks is plenty of time, or more if YOU feel comfortable.

Tri

[Jody]

Thank you, Tri. That sounds like good advice.
J.

[Kristen King]

I second tri's advice--good tips all around. But I'm a little nervous that you say that the agent scares you. That's not good. It's great to be respectful of the agent's experience and skills, but being intimidated to the point of not wanting to ask questions is not a good thing. You need to be able to trust your agent and feel comfortable speaking frankly with him or her to be able to take full advantage of his or her expertise. And they're auditioning for you just as much as you're auditioning for them.

Just my $.02.

Kristen

[Jody]

Kristen, What you just said is worth a lot more than $.02. She does intimidate me and I do not feel comfortable speaking with her frankly or otherwise. I was so thrilled when someone was interested in me, I never thought about the audition going both ways. I really appreciate your input.
Thank you, J.

[Kristen King]

I'm glad it helped! It's so easy to get caught up in the excitement. Just trust your gut. :]

Kristen