the year after getting an agent

​It’s hard to believe that it is just over a year since I was first accepted by Maddy and the team at Madeleine Milburn Literary, TV and Film Agency for representation. Getting an agent had always been my aim as an aspiring writer, but I had no idea what to expect after getting one, or just how many things would happen in the following twelve months. It’s been a long and busy year, with lots of exciting and unexpected milestones in the run up to publication next year. I thought I’d recap on some of the things I’ve been up to and see what my first year as part of the publishing world has taught me.

Working with my agent

​From the first discussion over the phone to the first meeting during a trip to the UK, Maddy, my agent has been a great support.  When you step into an unknown world for the first time you really do need somebody to hold your hand a little bit and explain the things that are going on. I was really lucky that I found an agent who likes to work editorially, and we did a couple of rounds of edits before we even thought about approaching publishers. They walk you through international accounting, liaise with your editor, and generally champion your cause to all who will listen. It’s been great having somebody who is always in my corner! I would say to anybody who is looking for an agent to make sure you find somebody who you trust. I ended up changing  my title, adding new chapters to the book, and even got a new name before approaching publishers. They know what they’re doing, and they’ve got your back. Let them weave their magic.

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