Hi all, long time lurker here on a trial basis... (damn my groaning credit card).

I wonder if anyone could give me advice? I'm a very young author who's just completed a topical novel, and so I'm worried about having it considered by industry professionals as soon as possible. There are some publishing houses here in Ireland that take on similar stuff to mine, but I'm aware of the fact that most publishers like their authors to have agents at their side when dealing with them.

Is it a good idea, or at all viable, to approach an agent and a publisher at the same time? I feel like I won't be so young and saleable forever, and that the subject matter of my novel may not be so raw and important in a couple of years time.

Any advice at all would be appreciated. I hope to become a fully-paid up member soon, as this community seems to be an invaluable source of encouragement, advice and taking-down-a-peg-or-two sternness (perhaps essential if you're young and impatient, like me!)

I think there is an unwritten law against submitting to both publishers and agents at the same time. However its OK to submit to several agents or several publishers. You just tell them that they aren't the only agent or publisher in your enclosing letter - just a short sentence at the end will do.

Agents like to have a clear field to submit work in, I understand. If a publisher has already declined, it mucks up their approach and connections. However the publishing world is a minefield.

All the best with your submissions - as its topical I would go wide if I were you, whether you are sticking to publishers or agents.

Thanks, Issy, sound advice there, and much appreciated. What you say makes a lot of sense.