Recently I sent out a slew of queries and responses are finally trickling in. About half of the packages I sent out included the first 20/50/whatever pages and a synopsis as requested by the agent; the others were simple query letters.
Today I got this response to one of my "query only" mailings:
"Can you please send me the first three chapters and a synopsis of the balance? One caveat, we do ask to review material on an exclusive basis and I hope you will agree."
Okay, first of all, is she referring to an "exclusive basis" in the event that they request the entire manuscript? I've never heard of asking for an exclusive on the synopsis and a sample chapter, which is what it sounds like she wants! Of course if this is the case I have a problem because I've already sent out the same thing to 30-something agents.
Now, oridinarily I might just go ahead and send it out regardless. However, this is no form letter-- it's been typed with my name, address, and the title of my novel. Is this just me or does that indicate a degree of seriousness?
Any advice appreciated.
Today I got this response to one of my "query only" mailings:
"Can you please send me the first three chapters and a synopsis of the balance? One caveat, we do ask to review material on an exclusive basis and I hope you will agree."
Okay, first of all, is she referring to an "exclusive basis" in the event that they request the entire manuscript? I've never heard of asking for an exclusive on the synopsis and a sample chapter, which is what it sounds like she wants! Of course if this is the case I have a problem because I've already sent out the same thing to 30-something agents.
Now, oridinarily I might just go ahead and send it out regardless. However, this is no form letter-- it's been typed with my name, address, and the title of my novel. Is this just me or does that indicate a degree of seriousness?
Any advice appreciated.