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Getting a novel out there takes a lot of skill, luck and perseverance. Here are a few tips to help you along the way.
Publishers and agents want to be able to consider a completed novel so don’t approach any until you have finished the story and polished the writing.
Most (but not all) publishers will only accept novel submissions from agents. You can normally find out whether publishers accept unsolicited submissions via their websites or their listings on sites like Writers & Artists(this will open in a new window). Found one that accepts submissions directly? Our advice for submitting to publishers might help.
There’s no magic answer here, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances. Check out our tips for submitting to an agent.
Working out how long a novel should be is really based on the story. That said, if you’re a debut novelist, many publishers prefer a conservative wordcount of around 90,000.
Writing the best possible book you can is the most important thing, but you may improve your chances by:
Here are a few organisations that may be useful:
Society of Authors(this will open in a new window)
Writers' Services(this will open in a new window)
NAWE: The Writer’s Compass(this will open in a new window)
ScottishPEN(this will open in a new window)
Edinburgh City of Literature(this will open in a new window)
By supporting our work, you are helping children and adults in Scotland to reach their potential through reading and writing.
Donate now