The other day I had a strange, revealing experience about following up a solicited manuscript.The agent had asked to see the entire manuscript about eight weeks before. Friday I had the occasion to write the agent an email about another matter, but in doing so mentioned that he'd had my manuscript for two months.
I got a reply suggesting I call to set up an in person appointment, which sounded wonderful. But also in the reply was something to the effect of: "Did you send or email me the manuscript."
When I called I was told nobody could find my book (which I had snail mailed). It was never logged in. Maybe I had the wrong address, why don't I send it again. After about ten minutes chatting on the phone with the agent, lo and behold, the manuscript turned up (obviously still unread).
I wonder how many other manuscripts languish at the bottom of the pile, until the author calls (or becomes famous elsewhere) to provide the incentive to move it up the list?
I have two partials out, at four weeks and six weeks. Now I'm thinking I need to follow these up too.
Meanwhile, do I still have the appointment with the first agent?
I got a reply suggesting I call to set up an in person appointment, which sounded wonderful. But also in the reply was something to the effect of: "Did you send or email me the manuscript."
When I called I was told nobody could find my book (which I had snail mailed). It was never logged in. Maybe I had the wrong address, why don't I send it again. After about ten minutes chatting on the phone with the agent, lo and behold, the manuscript turned up (obviously still unread).
I wonder how many other manuscripts languish at the bottom of the pile, until the author calls (or becomes famous elsewhere) to provide the incentive to move it up the list?
I have two partials out, at four weeks and six weeks. Now I'm thinking I need to follow these up too.
Meanwhile, do I still have the appointment with the first agent?