Novel Proposal

vsrenard · Mar 17, 2009

I am a historical fiction writer whose debut novel has been acceped for publication by Avon Books. I have been using the time since then (6+ months) to develop the background materials for my second novel. The topic is somewhat timely and I'd like to maximize on the potential appeal. Is it worth sending a proposal (consisiting of an outline, short character biod and 3 sample chapters) to my agent?

Thank you!

Vanitha

ChaosTitan · Mar 17, 2009

I wouldn't see the harm in sending it, but why not just ask your agent?

Cathy C · Mar 17, 2009

Absolutely. Once a major publisher has accepted a full manuscript on spec, they're more willing to buy another on proposal. Now would be the time to do it, while the editor is still excited about your current book and there haven't been any negatives to cast any shadows.

vsrenard · Mar 17, 2009

Thanks--my publisher has an option to look at an outline for the next book. Just don't want to jump the gun!

Mumut · Mar 17, 2009

It's also a good time to have your second book ready. My second came out in Australia a year after the first and the third will be the same by the way I'm writing, but I wish I'd made it closer between books. I find the second book sparks a greater demand for the first. People say they're more interested in buying a book if there is another by the same author, especially a sequel. So, go for it.

Novel Proposal

vsrenard

Watching the Whales

ChaosTitan

Around

Cathy C

Ooo! Shiny new cover!

vsrenard

Watching the Whales

Mumut

Well begun is half done...