Rest Stop: We Have Movement!

[Path to Print, Vol. 3]

Oof, it’s been a while since I gave an update on my publishing journey, so I wanted to do a quick pop-in to say hi and let you know where I am on this path to print. Things have been moving slow, but they have been moving! My last Rest Stop with you was… omg, seven months ago.

How is that even real? Where did the time go?!

Between now and then, I did share my synopsis (paid subscribers got a sneak peek at the first two chapters) and have been slowly submitting queries. I won’t lie, it’s a total slog, as if I’m trudging wearily through molasses. Most of that is because I am researching the agents, making sure I think they would be a good fit, and adjusting my query letter to have a little bit of personalization included. It’s like a cover letter to a resume. Gotta sell myself and my idea! Anyway, I joined QueryTracker, which is truly a gift. It’s a website that makes sending and tracking queries so incredibly easy to manage. I’m steadily sending out queries and patiently awaiting responses. More on that in a moment!

When I posted my synopsis, I mentioned my novel hadn’t gone through any formal editing. My plan (so far) has been to query agents with my fourth draft and if I can get an agent, I will let them advise me on editing services. I am hoping for some in-house editing (and marketing) if I land a deal, tbh. To me, that would just make things easier to manage, given I have a full-time job and don’t have a ton of free time to devote to those things. I wish I did! But I don’t. But that’s okay. Because I’ve been saving my precious pennies for a while just in case I had to hire my own editor.

And now, dear reader, the time has come.

A couple of weeks ago, I heard back from an agent who politely informed me that my novel, in its current standing, is wayyyy too long for “traditional” publishing in my genre (which is only what she’s currently seeking). And honestly? I couldn’t agree more. I knew it was long. But on my own, I am not sure what needs to be cut (or condensed/refined). One of my beta readers shared the same notion, saying she wasn’t sure what could be removed as everything (in her opinion) moves the story forward. The agent said if I can cut it down, I should resubmit it. This is the most positive feedback I’ve received so far! Not a yes… but not a no!

In light of that response, I hired an editor to help me. I keep a list of editors and other writing/publishing resources I find online. For the editors, I’ve been spending some time assessing their experience (and vibe). Last week, I finally chose one to engage. Ultimately, I want to create a partnership with someone who I can lean on for good advice and great editing. I want someone with whom I can establish a solid rapport, who will learn what my goals are and help me elevate my work. I also want someone to tell me what to cut, what to condense, and what needs work so I can get this book on the shelf!

We recently met to discuss my goals, the book itself, and what I will get out of the service. I am so excited to have a professional go through and provide critical feedback that will elevate my work. I want my readers to be impacted by this story. I want my readers to have an enjoyable experience when they read my work so they come back for my next one. I know this editor will help me get there. Early this summer, I’ll get my draft back and have a pretty clear idea of where to go from here, and I’ll pick up the querying process again at that point. I may still submit queries, but I think patience will pay off in the end.

In the meantime, I’ll continue to refine my query letters, look into agents that fit my vibe, and keep plugging away.

Until the next Rest Stop…

📸 Featured image: Unsplash