I plan to write a historical novel ; what is the best solution to find a publisher ?

Question

A literary agency with a synopsis ?
Publishers with a manuscript ?

Thanks a lot !

Answer 1

With novels, the best plan is to write the book first, then deal with finding an agent and publisher.

When you are writing nonfiction, you can more often get away with just submitting the outline and research for a book and then actually write it. Almost no fiction agents or publishers will ever spend even a moment considering an unwritten work of fiction-- they have no way to judge what kind of writer you are and if you can really tackle this project!

Once it is done, check out the books "Writer's Market" and "The Guide to Literary Agents". I would suggest starting with an agent. Not only can they help move your book through the slush pile at publishers so it will actually get read, but if you are ever offered a contract they can negotiate it so you keep as many rights to your book as possible. Unless you are a lawyer, I would not recommend that you try this on your own.

You will need to do your research to find out what each particular agent likes. Some only want a query letter and a summary to begin. Some want a full outline. Almost no agents or publishers will ever want your full manuscript right off the bat-- normally if they like your original query they will request sample chapters and THEN request the entire manuscript.

So, make sure to at least take a look at the books I recommended. They are a good place to begin the research process. Another place to check is Preditors and Editors, as they can help weed out the scams:
http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors/

Remember, you should never have to pay these people up front. You are the one selling the commodity.

Also, I cannot emphasize enough-- you will get rejected. A lot. Every author does, but if you want to have your book published then you will have to not get discouraged and keep submitting! If you have written any short stories or poetry, you might want to take another look at "Writer's Market" for magazines and journals to submit them to. Sometimes, having previous publishing credits can make an agent take a slightly longer look at your query. It can show them that you ARE a salable commodity.

Now, before you worry about this anymore, GO WRITE!

And then edit. Repeatedly.

And then query!

Good luck, and happy writing!

Answer 2

This is my dream as well. I've done a bit of research and think submitting your synopsis and first ten pages to agencies is probably your best bet. Publishers get hit with manuscipts left and right. However, an agency puts their so-called "seal of approval" on your piece and if they take you on submit to publishers who they have a working relationship with. Also, submitting to an agency can give real constructive criticism that can help you to edit and rewrite a novel that will be eagerly accepted by a publishing company. Write the entire manuscript first before submission to the agency. You may be surprised how your story takes a shape of its own and may potentially stray from your original theme.

Answer 3

Do some homework first

Get to the library and find "Writer's Handbook"

Check through the publishers to see which would be interested in your book. Monst want the first three chapters and a synopsis.

You will also need a rocking cover letter to make it stick

Do note that some do not accept unsolicited manuscripts.

The problem with an agent is finding one on your side

Answer 4

The first thing you gotta do is write a historical novel that is worthy of being published. Get back to me when you've done that much....

Answer 5

http://www.aar-online.org/mc/page.do
Association of Artist's Representatives

You WILL need an agent. The above people are legit. There are a lot of scam artists around who will collect a reading fee from you but not even touch your manuscript, much less try to sell it.

Answer 6

Write it first of all. I'm impressed by your self-esteem, but - how can you ve sure that it'll be worth publishing?