Q: Could I send you a copy of my manuscript so that you can read it and make some suggestions? Or…Will you get your agent to represent me? Or…Will you show my work to your publisher? Or…will you please read my book and make a comment that I can a: add to a query letter or b: put on the cover flap?

A: No…on all counts. Sorry guys, I used to do this when I was vain enough to believe I had an editor's eye, but experience has taught me that I'm no editor. Nor am I an agent. If I was either, would I need somebody else to do it for me? It's not a good idea for a lot of reasons.

1. As stated above, I'm not and editor or an agent. I don't offer to do critiques at writer's conferences for the same reason. What I like or dislike about a book, an editor or agent is bound to disagree with. Everybody has a feel for what they want. I can only give you general advice and hope you find just the right home for your work.

2. If I read all the manuscripts that people asked me to read, I wouldn't have time to write my own manuscripts, not to mention spend time with my family, visit schools, do occasional charity events, clean my house, eat, sleep…you get the idea.

3. I can't stand to hurt anybody's feelings. I am soooo much better at writing down my thoughts because if I say them out loud, they come out in a tangle of words that offend half the people who hear them. So I write emails rather than talk on the phone or in person when I have something difficult to handle. (Yes, I'm a coward). But frankly, I have a really hard time expressing my dislike of a particular manuscript, either verbally or in writing, to the person who wrote it. I can't stand to let them down because I understand what it took to put that piece of your soul in front of another person. I might really like the manuscript or I might not. I work at being diplomatic but I feel too strongly about writing to give a false opinion. Besides, my opinion means nada! It's your target audience you need to impress.

4. I'll admit that I think my agents and editor are the best in the world, but it took me twenty years of writing to reach this happy point. It doesn't happen overnight and it takes quite a bit of effort. You need to find your own special place in the publishing world. Do your research, find your own voice, find the agent/editor who is perfect for you. Most agents and editors will only work with manuscripts about which they are passionate. Be patient and diligent until you get the one that is the right fit for you.


If you're still not satisfied, drop a line to writers@melindalongbooks.com. Due to the volume of inquiries I receive, I cannot respond to each question, but do get to as many as is possible in a timely manner. And, of course, thanks for your interest!