Hi people,

I currently have one agent who has requested the full mss of my YA novel Tash & Kev. She's had it for about 6 weeks now. I e-mailed her a few weeks ago and she was very apologetic, but said she'd try and read it and get back to me by the end of last week, which she hasn't!

I've just received an e-mail from another agent requesting the mss. Do I just send it, or should I let the first agent know this before I do anything??

Cath

Cath,

I've sent you a WWmail about this.

Terry

Being me, and having no morals whatsoever in this respect, I send things to whoever asks for them. No matter what. Just like in any other area of commerce. But Terry has loads of experience, so do pay heed to what he suggests.

Good luck!

A
xxx

Hi Cath,

I had a similar situation and being honest worked for me.

Well done for being so in demand!

Myrtle

Hi Cath

Sorry, no advice, just wanted to say 'well done' on your successes.
Two requests for the full manuscript is fantastic; very best of luck!

JennyWren x

I'm with Holly on this one. No contract, no breach therefore no dishonesty.

First come first served, and never cross the road when the green man's flashing.

JB

I second what Jenny Wren said. Very well done. For what it's worth, my instinct would be to let second agent have a look-see. I don't see why you need to inform agent 1 unless she asked for an exclusive. She's already late getting back to you, so she may have to face the fact that she let this fish (you!) get away.

Terry, just out of interest (in case I'm lucky enough for this ever to happen to me!), what's the gist of your reply to Cath? Is it more or less 'no', or more or less 'yes'?!

I like the sound of the honesty approach.

Cath, congratulations again. I have huge admiration for your Tash & Kev and I'm really looking forward to good news from you soon.

Luisa

To sum up, Terry basically said to politely tell the first agent about the other request in order to hurry her up. That's what I thought I should do, but wanted to get some expert opinions!

Thanks for the best wishes people!

Cath

Well done, Cath.

Nik.

Actually, JB, I always enjoy it when the green man is flashing!

)

A
xxx

Congratulations Cath! Good luck, and keep us updated.
Saz

Any man flashing'll do for me at the mo....

I was in a similar posititon a short while back, and chose to tell the agents that there was another reading the full script. They were both fine about it. I didn't do it to spur either on; it was a question of honesty.

Cath, I've sent you a WWmail about this. Terry

Why post this Terry? If you've sent Cath a mail, she'll already know, so I guess it's to tell everyone else that you've got something you're unwilling to share. I can understand not posting on the forum, but to post to say your emailing, rather than posting is... well, childish?

(probably going to regret this)
Colin M