Dec 27 2008
First Novel
I finished my first novel. I think it’s pretty good! At this time it is a sense of accomplishment more than anything. However, I would like to have it published and sell it. I’ve always dreamed of a career writing fiction, and who wouldn’t want that type of career.
But I’m confused as to where to go now to start the publishing process. I’ve done some internet research on this subject and there seems to be myriad options to pursue. If I spend eight hours on my computer searching I almost end up bambozzled, so many choices…so little time.
Which way first?
It is better to use an agent or just poll the individual publishers?
Are there networks that help get new author’s published? Maybe a writer’s group that can give me feedback and tell me who might be interested?
What about contests? Is there a “American Idol” for writers? Are contests a good opportunity for beginners?
If you send your work to a fifty different publishers/agents is there a risk of it being copied without your consent?
What about magazines? I read somewhere selling chapters of your book to magazines helps. If you send a chapter for publishing, do you lose the rights to it and therefore can’t use it again in a novel?
I have so many questions.
I would appreciate some help. I can do my best to help in return.
