When To Follow Up On A Full MS Request

by Julie Shackman
16th May 2013

Dear Writers,

I have had my full ms with a literary agent since 11 March but have not yet had a reply.

I submitted my query on 9 March (her submission requirements are the first ten pages and synopsis) and she replied on the 11th, asking to read the whole novel.

I checked the agency website for response times but there is no indication at all. What is the general feeling about when (or if!) I should politely follow up my submission? The last thing I want to do is annoy her, but it has been almost 2 1/2 months now...

Any advice or thoughts would be much appreciated.

Thank you.

Replies

At this time of year, don't forget to allow a couple of weeks extra for the Easter Break and May Bank Holidays.

I'd give her another two weeks and then send a simple query asking her if she's had a chance to look at your manuscript.

Good luck.

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16/05/2013