Kirsty gave writers at our Wiltshire retreat the inside track on publishing trends and tips for getting noticed by agents and publishers. She talked about the importance of the pitch ” Have a clear vision of your story, who your reader is and why they should buy your book.” She also laid out what all publishers are looking for namely: a distinctive voice, authenticity, a believable character that jumps off the page, skill in managing the plot and the characters within the plot, vision and an author’s credentials as a writer.
After tea and cake she went through the publishing cycle which writers were surprised to learn averages 12 – 14 months. Structural editing is followed by a line and copy edit, then proofreading – that’s all before building a publishing and publicity platform for the author.
Emma is responsible for BPA’s bespoke programme of literary events and retreats as well as managing the First Novel Award and submissions to literary agents. With a background in communications and special events she has an eye for detail and a desire to give writers the best possible experience in an imaginative programme of events. Her retreats at Asthall Manor, the childhood home of the Mitford sisters with guest tutors including Tessa Hadley and Claire Fuller have set a new benchmark in literary experiences. The First Novel Award now in its third year has proved remarkably successful for writers with five of the 2018 shortlist gaining agent representation. With an up to date knowledge of what literary agents are looking for, Emma offers a reading service and advises writers with a polished manuscript which agents to approach and how best to ensure your work gets read. She also contacts agents on behalf of writers where there is a potential match.
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