Submitting more than one novel

by Keith Farnish
27th January 2016

Hi all, I originally submitted the first novel of a young adult trilogy to various agents and had nothing but rejections before realising it needed a fair re-write. Now I've re-drafted this, plus written and re-drafted the second book in the trilogy and have just begun the final book.

So, my question is: how do you submit more than one book to an agent, bearing in mind they are quite different in style to reflect the different characters narrating them? I'm assuming it's a good thing to have more than just a single manuscript to offer as this would make an author a better investment,

Many thanks

Replies

Hello,

I have just joined the forum and appreciate the insight as I am in a similar position.

I started out with the idea of a football/faith based novel. I realised that I had so much material, it soon became apparent that there were two books. Since then, I have also got ideas for a third and final book. I have had the first draft of the first book proof-read and edited by a pro. and have half of the second book since the 'split'.

Nothing yet submitted so I have not experienced the disappointment of rejection.

All I would say Keith is if you firmly believe that your books will impact people's lives for good, don't give up.

Ben.

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Ben
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Ben Lawes
28/01/2016

Hi Keith,

I guess the short answer is, you don't.

If you're referrring to your trilogy, submit the first book again. Agents, for the most part, aren't interesting in representing the second or third book in a series, as it would be very hard to sell onto a publisher. There's nothing wrong with re-submitting a book to agents if you've changed it quite substantially from your original submission, although the guideline is to wait about six months between submissions. And I heard one agent say that she's very happy to have revised submissions, as she doesn't remember the books she's rejected anyway!

Definitely let them know you have the next books planned out already, as that is a selling point.

If you have another book written, submit that. But once again, let the agent know you have other books in the planning stages.

Hope that helps.

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Helen
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Helen Jones
28/01/2016

Hi Antoinette, the thing is, I don't have another book planned, I've already written another, but agents' submission guideline assume one book only. Thanks, K

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Keith
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Keith Farnish
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