This excerpt is from “Success, Your Path to a Successful Book,” by Maralyn D. Hill and Brenda C. Hill.
The best advice that we can give regarding agents is to research and read articles about them and by them on the internet. Then make the decision if an agent will benefit your specialty.
You may want to read The Renegade Writer’s Query Letters that Rock, The Freelance Writer’s Guide to Selling More Work Faster, by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. It provides query letters that have worked, along with comments from the writer and editor.
If you want a traditional publisher, you will most likely need an agent. Very few large publishers will accept work unless it comes from an agent.
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is President Emeritus of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association and Executive Editor for LuxeBeatMag. She is also a member of SATW and SPJ. She contributes to numerous publications.
The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet.
Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
This year’s winner was nominated for the award an impressive eight times and praised for her encyclopedic knowledge, intelligence, curiosity, and diligence.
This year’s top honor goes to a 128-year-old store that is beloved by its community, plays host to vibrant literary events for authors large and small, and serves as an anchor business for the Village of La Jolla, Calif.