As a literary agent, I have to say 'keep going'. Honestly, we get between 20-40 submissions a day and if you are getting personalised responses, it can only be a good thing. I would aim to target agents first - rather than publishers - as if you do get a deal, you will need an agent anyway to negotiate the contract and also agents know how to get in the 'back door' at publishers - who is looking for what, etc.

You might like to add a line in your pitch letter saying ' please could I ask your advice as to who this might appeal to' - agents are conditioned to say 'no' to submissions simply because of the huge quantity of submissions that are sent in. But we happily give out advice for free!

Thanks for your help and encouragement, Kirsty. I'm sure Karris's original question has been covered, but you've been a great help to me too.

SJxx

Still go for it! You'll never know. I know of a few people who have been published with their first novel. All you need to do is try the right people.

I would try the smaller publishing houses. You would think the larger publishing houses would be able to cope with the current climate. However, you will find some emerging talents coming up. Keep you eyes peeled if my advice.

Hope this helps

Anita xx