Colin,

The reason I post on the forum that I've sent someone a reply is because they don't always check their mail boxes/receive a notification.

The reason I'm not posting many replies publicly is because I'm avoiding having to get into discussions about what I say. By writing direct to someone, I can state what I know and, if necessary, say that I believe X is not quite right in what he/she said. Which means I don't put anyone's nose out of joint and, basically, save time having to justify myself.

Regards,


Terry

I think honesty's always the best policy.

Good luck with it.

Nik.

This is an interesting test of morals, if you've got any!! I'm slightly ashamed to say that I think I have none (for this, anyway) so I'd go with Anne and JB on this one and just send it out. The only way it might pose a problem is if both offer representation, in which case, Cath, you'd have a choice of agent which seems to me great (for you, maybe not quite so great for them). Otherwise it seems that there is an obligation to take the first agent who offers. I know the industry is a tough one but doesn't a writer have a right to have some options?
BTW, very well done, Cath, and good luck.

Ashlinn

In From Pitch to Publication, Carole Blake (lit agent with Blake Friedmann) says that's the best position to be in. In fact, she says that your first offer of a contract/acceptance is just the start, and a sign that more agents will be ready to take you on. She puts an awful lot of emphasis on that first meeting and whether your gut instinct tells you if you can work with this agent or not, and encourages writers not to feel uncomfortable about turning an offer down. Bear in mind that this is a career decision and a bad choice can be difficult to get out of.

Colin M

ps - Terry, no probs - my wwmail notification is on, so I didn't look at that. I usually back you up in these things, this just looked a little odd, especially when what you have to say is usually valuable info.

I agree on principle, Colin, but honestly no matter how I didn't click with an agent I'd have a hard time saying, 'Hold on a few weeks (months?) while I check out if anyone else out there who I get on with better is interested' A bird in the hand and all that. On the other hand if I had two offers up-front (just dreaming!!) then you can afford to really assess the alternatives.

Ashlinn

To be honest, Ashlinn, I agree. I get the feeling that much of Carole's advice is for those people who are going to have agents falling over themselves - ie celebrities. Also, its worth noting that with business partnerships, the advice is a little contradictory - ie don't go into business with a close friend (or family member). In an agent, I'm not after a best buddy to go shopping with. I'm after someone who can get the best deal for my work.

Colin
ps - congrats, Cath. Whatever happens, you deserve a pat on the back and plenty of wine and song!

Good luck Skip

I shall be praying to my Urban Hymns CD tonight wishing you all the best.

Honest, good luck.

Beadle

Click, schmick. Once an agent agrees to represent me, my undying love will inevitably follow...

JB

Congratulations Cath, always knew this one was a winner. Feel it won't be long before you're telling us two agents want to represent so what to do now!

I'm not after a best buddy to go shopping with

No, but it is a very close relationship. You need to respect each other, trust each other, and feel comfortable about disagreeing.

There again, most of us are in the same situation, or been there, or working towards it. So to have any agent indicating some interest is like being handed a lifeline. You grab it and hang on for dear life!

Cath, yes, be honest with both of them. Knowing someone else is interested will sharpen theirs.

Best of luck, and keep us posted.

Dee

Yes, Cath, best of luck and all that.

JB

Oh, the suspense!

The first agent sent a brief reply to my e-mail informing her of the second agent at 11pm last night saying she had now read T&K and would be in touch very shortly!

Cath

So she hasn’t immediately decided against it… sounds promising.

Dee

Yes it does sound promising. Fingers crossed for you!

Nik.

exciting stuff. Best of luck with this... Keep us posted!