Just saw a comment on someone's work where it was stressed that one should not submit a double-spaced synopsis to agents. Is this right? (If it is, I've committed another dum-dum crime!
I thought they preferred double-spaced. Any thoughts?
Susiex

Single-spaced. The double-spaced thing is based on the idea that they might be writing on the MS, whereas they're only reading the synopsis. But it's not a hanging matter, let alone (much worse!) a deal-breaker.

Emma

As Emma says, Single spaced synopsis and covering letter. Double spaced MS - so they have room to write comments if they wish.


- NaomiM

Thanks, folks. Bother. Oh well, at least I know for the next batch. I entered a novel competition which stressed a double-spaced synopsis and must have just continued in that mode.
Susiex

I read one article the other day that stressed that you needed to make it double spaced and another umpteen that stressed it shouldn't be. I wouldn't worry about it too much though, take I leaf out of my book, I never worry about anything...

Isn't it all crazy? Why can't there be a standard method of approaching agents, so everyone knows where they are?
Susiex

Don't worry about it, Susie. There are no 'rules' about it, and it won't affect their decision.

Good luck,

Dee

Thanks, Dee!
I think I'm getting too hung up on all this.
Susiex

We all do

Where are you at with your rewrite?
Susiex

Waiting for more suggestions from my agent. She thinks I haven’t quite hit the right note yet, and she’s passed it to one of her readers for comments. Eek!

Dee

Oooh, fingers crossed! Hope the reader likes it.
Susiex

Fingers crossed for the reader's response, Dee, though that basically sounds like progress (progress in the book trade never being more than snail-like...)

And Susie, yes, it won't make a ha'porth of difference to what they think of it.

Emma

Thanks, Susie and Emma!

Yes, it’s progress. But snail-pace? The reader’s gone on holiday