If you intend to have your book traditionally published, it’s likely that you’ll be looking for an agent first. Though some publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts (ones that do not come via an agent), most won’t.
I recommend the Writers and Artists’ Yearbook as your go-to directory to find the right agent or publisher for you. Of course, you can also do an online search or go on social media to find out who might be accepting submissions. However, this is a directory that covers most, if not all, of the bases.
Many first-time authors make the mistake of thinking that once they finish their book, they can send it off to an agent who will then edit it for them.
Unfortunately, not all agents are editors, and because they get so many submissions, your manuscript won’t get a look-in if it’s not in a polished state. And by that, I mean it’s been professionally edited before it ends up in their slush pile.
Whether you go down the traditionally published route or indie publishing, it makes no difference at the point of manuscript completion. Not if you’re a first-time author.
A significant part of your writing process should include a professional edit. Working with an editor will help you as a writer. It will strengthen your story and help you to see it from an outsider’s point of view.
You know how close you can get to your writing, not seeing the wood for the trees? There comes a time when you need to pass it to someone else and get a professional view on your story.
A developmental editor will look at your story from a big-picture perspective.
In other words, checking that it works as a story overall. They will be able to identify plot holes, pacing issues, and even issues at the individual scene dynamics level.
You will become a better writer for having your story professionally edited, particularly in terms of a developmental edit (a copy edit and line edit to check for spelling and grammar/wording issues comes at a later stage of the process).
Editing isn’t just about checking for spelling and grammar issues. Your story needs to be in a strong position way before that happens. And if you want to be traditionally published, the stronger your manuscript is, the more it will stand out from the multitude of others that an agent receives on a daily basis.
Get in touch to find out how I can help you with your editing needs. You can also refer to my Editing Services page to find out more.
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