Today I’m going to help you make an important decision about your writing. In fact, it might be the most important decision you’ll ever make, because your success depends on it completely.
But first, a little back story…
When I founded my author consulting company Literary Agent Undercover, I couldn’t really see the big picture.
I thought my mission was to give authors lots of information… help them on their quest to get a literary agent. I also wanted to inspire everyone and boost their confidence, make them believe in themselves and the publishing process more.
But none of that matters…
If you don’t make a conscious decision as
an author about something else first.
A while back this all became clear for me when I was corresponding with one of my 1-on-1 consulting clients. We’d just begun working together and I was excited about his chances of getting an agent.
He’s a novelist with a good sense of story, a beautiful writing style, and a decent author platform (not good enough to get agents jumping up and down, but not bad enough to make them say “no” either). So I coached the author through some changes on his query letter.
Everything was going great.
Until the meltdown…
I sent the author two dozen sample query letters, and asked him to do one last rewrite… before I started working on his query letter myself. I told the author not to feel singled out, because I do this with everyone. The sample query letters are simply meant to give an author more ideas.
None of the query letters that I sent him were perfect, but you can learn from each one. They all have different strengths and weaknesses, because all authors and all books have different strengths and weaknesses.
The next thing I got from the author was this email…
***
Dear Mark:
I read the query letters you sent me and I want to thank you, for reminding me what a tremendous nobody I am. Let’s face it. This is just some pipe dream and I am nothing more than one of those million “writers” who want to be published but will never be taken seriously by a “real” publisher.
The example queries you sent were all too clear that I do not have the credentials to impress an agent. Now, as I see [my credentials] in my query letter, it just seems cheap and meaningless compared to those with true credentials.
Even if my work is well-written, which I am seriously beginning to doubt it is, I will never be able to create the “platform” required to appeal to the industry. That being said, I appreciate your words of encouragement but I realize now it is pointless for me to proceed with pursuing an agent or big name publisher.
Sincerely,
[Author]
***
My Decision: Take a Deep Breath
Now I learned a long time ago, not to respond to things like this too quickly. Otherwise you might say something you regret. Plus, it’s best to take time to think things through.
So I gave myself a couple days to ponder the
situation before responding.
Then I sent the author this email…
***
Dear [Author],
Before you back out on your commitment to yourself and your writing,
consider the following:
1) You really do have a good chance of getting agents requesting your work, liking it, and offering you representation. If anyone is in a position to make that judgment, it’s me (not you).
2) I wouldn’t have offered to work with you if I didn’t feel like there was a 75% or greater chance that we’d be able to get agents interested… because I want to get a good success story out of our working together.
3) You have plenty to work with in your bio… the query samples are drafts that I wrote. Yours will look 5-10 times better also, once I’ve personally edited it.
4) Unless you’re going to burn all your manuscripts and never write or submit another word to agents/publishers… I’m your best shot. No one will be able to help position you and your book in the way that I can. It’s what I do. I know exactly what to include and accentuate.
Please take time to really think this through before you respond. If you decide to honor your commitment to yourself and your writing, print out this email and put it somewhere easy to see… a reminder that you and your work deserve a fair shot.
Your journey with me might not be easy… but if anyone can help you get published,
it’s me. And I’ll give you everything I’ve got.
Sincerely,
Mark
P.S. – A lot of authors struggle with things like this, and they aren’t able to get past it. With me as your coach, I’ll make sure that doesn’t happen. And that might be the most valuable thing that you get out of our time together.
***
Now you’re probably wondering what happened next,
but (to be honest) that doesn’t really matter.
This article isn’t about that author.
And it isn’t about me.
It’s about YOU…
Are you really serious about getting
a literary agent and publisher?
Are you going to do everything you can
to get your book published?
Or… are you just talk?
I hope you’re committed, especially if you’re
thinking about working with me.
Because I won’t settle for less.
And neither will anyone else in the
publishing establishment!
I used to think that the worst thing in publishing
was the author that didn’t start (or finish)
writing his or her book.
I was wrong.
The worst thing in publishing is the author that finishes
his or her book, but doesn’t follow through
and market it properly…
I don’t relish being the one to tell you this, but there’s no
such thing as “almost” when it comes to publishing.
You’re either published, or you’re not.
* * *
Your Decision: Final Thoughts
My advice?
Have some guts and choose
(right now), to go all in.
Follow through.
Give yourself the best possible chance
of getting a top literary agent and publisher.
Don’t let your fear beat you.
Or, stop writing…
Burn your manuscripts and call it a day.
Don’t waste your time, or mine.
Harsh, or honest?
You tell me,
Mark Malatesta
Your “Undercover” Agent
* * *
* * *
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
Dear Mark,
I know the way to achieve success is to keep reaching for it until its in your hand. My children’s book will win awards. Now, I just need direction. Can you help me?
Sincerely,
Penny Wagner
Hi Penny, I love your confidence and yes I can help. Start by listening to my complimentary mp3 that I talk about here on my homepage if you haven’t already: https://literary-agents.com. Then check out this page to see the different ways you can get help from me 1-on-1: https://literary-agents.com/book-marketing/. Of course I also have a ton of articles on my website as well. Take some time to poke around and have a great weekend! Mark
Mark, so true, what you’ve said. I confess, I fit the bill here. I’ve already lost in publishing because my fears have subjugated me, and I’ve LET them! I am my own undoing. I do not blame you, nor publishers. I blame myself. In truth, I know not how to turn the inner flame around, to burn inside the right direction, and to rekindle the fires of ambition. See, Reworking a query over again once confidence in ones platform has been shaken, well-that takes some doing. Thoughts on that?
Hi KW. Nobody is 100% confident all the time, so don’t feel too bad. My greatest secret when it comes to building and/or sustaining confidence is taking massive action. That’s the only thing I know that, every time, quiets the demons a bit and lets me sleep at night. Because when I keep moving forward, I know I’m doing all I can. Focusing more on moving forward rather than whether I’m “there” yet or not. That’s all we have control over. I still believe in you. Mark
Here’s an alternative view. If a writer can’t get past the – “Sorry it’s not what we’re looking for.” and the “You have no bios; come back when you have one.” it’s time to have faith in your own talent; pitch it against the books put out by there by literary agents.
Self publishing gets your name out there (good or bad) and if it sells you have a bios.
Let the readers decide whether your book has merit; you could sit for years waiting for an agent – pitch it yourself but never give up!
Hi Brian. Never give up is good advice for everyone and everything. When it comes to self-publishing, it’s often the path of least resistance taken by authors who feel they have to settle for doing it themselves. But it’s better than never publishing at all. Mark
For someone who made his living writing in the competitive advertising world for many years,
I now seem to lack the push needed for my novels, short stories, screen and stage plays to make it past the file cabinet. The plays have been produced, that’s good. But my novel “The Cruelty of Pirates” is something I simply don’t know to market. So your comments about not following through and proper marketing, is right on! Now, how does one go about doing that effectively?
Hi Gene, I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know here I bet… but maybe this will help. You simply need to make it a top priority by giving yourself time and energy to focus. Get organized. And systematically start sending out your work to well-targeted agents, consistently. Immerse yourself in the process. If you’re looking for the nuts and bolts of how to do it all, click here: https://literary-agents.com/get-a-literary-agent/. Mark
I’m happy about your good news on the flooding and your client getting an agent. This is a motivational uplift while working towards our own goals. Your wise words here are taken to heart:”…I learned a long time ago, not to respond to things like this too quickly. Otherwise you might say something you regret. Plus, it’s best to take time to think things through.” At my polished age, it’s hard to wait sometimes, but patience is a great gift, and I’m visably making daily progress. Thanks, Mark
Hi Rhymster, very true. Getting older is a paradox. On one hand, it makes you wiser so you’re more likely to think carefully before you speak. But then it also makes you more willing to say what’s on your mind. 😉 Thank you, as always, for your comments and kindness. Mark
Mark.
Your article encourages me. I have 1 memoir,3 children’s (1 each of middle grade, children’s, and YA). I also have ab inspirational I’m working on. I WANT to be published. My anticipation for the day of publication is as much, maybe moor, than the anticipation of birth. I’ve destroyed rooms just cleaned, broken a few things. Over the top, I know, but rejection is, well you know. I need more then their kind words. I need that door to OPEN!
HI Frances, since you’ve poured so much energy into your work… the best thing you can do is simply send out queries for your different projects. You’ve paid your dues in many ways and now it’s time to put it out there and see what happens. Maybe it’s your time. I hope so. Keep knocking and the doors will open. Mark
As I was saying, the supply of writers exceeds the demand. And yet, a lot of mediocre material gets published. How come? The answer must be persistence, boosted by self-confidence. This is where you come in. Your encouragement, backed by your experience, is the elixir that can lift a sensitive author from his/her doldrums. After that, the rest is hard work and persistence. It may take years (as I can personally attest) — but it’s far better than quitting. You’re a writer’s angel.
There you are. I was wondering if your second comment went through. And I’m glad it did. I love the conclusion you came to about persistence being the secret sauce. I don’t know if it’s true, but it has to be in many or most cases. I’ll have to write another article and talk about that. I also love being called a writer’s angel. That’s a first, but I’ll take it. 😉 Have a great week and hope to see you again soon. All my best. Mark
I write a weekly column for my local newspaper, and submit it by email. I also attempt to write children’s books–picture book, creative non-fiction for emerging readers, and stories and articles
for children’s magazines. Most kidlit has been rejected, but I keep going. When I read children’s books, I know I am as good as those authors. My work has been rejected over the years, but I can’t give up this time. I am what you seem to be saying–Be determined. Thanks, Mark.
Hi Elizabeth, thank you for sharing your kind words AND your determination. I love hearing from authors that are committed. And I know everyone else who’s read your comments feels the same way. Have a great week. Mark
First, Darlene and I were concerned about you and Ingrid during the flood reports. We are familiar with the area, from old friends in Boulder and our vacation experience in Estes Park (which is featured in my “Escape!” novel). We never imagined that much water could invade those communities.
Regarding the “Most Important Decision” story, I assume this happens a lot. By nature, writers are sensitive people. And I’ll have to continue with a separate note, because I’m exceeding the character cou
Hi David, I see you got whacked by the character limiter. 😉 Had to install it because people were posting their query letters, etc. on my blog and asking for online coaching. I’m learning to say more in less space, but it’s not easy since I like to hear myself talk. Even online. Thank you for thinking of us and thank you for posting. Here’s to being both sensitive and strong. Have a great week. Mark
Mark – As you probably know, even those of us who are serious about our work, often get discouraged and question our talent.. But this article reminds me that you have also said:
“I wouldn’t have offered to work with you if I didn’t feel like there was a 75% or greater chance that we’d be able to get agents interested…” and that confidence in me along with your guidance, keeps me going. As a new client, I value our growing relationship.
Hi Pat, I know that I posted this article for everyone’s benefit… but it’s MOSTLY for the authors I’m working with that aren’t finding instant success. Some do, some don’t. And to them my heart goes out. Because all I can do at that point is basically beg them to keep going… because I know they have what it takes. Not everyone does, but the people I work with do. So keep believing, keep going, and keep me posted. As you know, I’m here for as long as it takes. Mark
You are absolutely correct. I have published before, and I self-published a book which has gotten excellent reader reviews on Amazon. But my real writing goal is to publish my novel about a female analyst tracking an international terrorist. It is in the rewrite-edit stage. I wanted to complete that before contacting you so our time together can be most productive. I am hoping that with your help I can get an agent. I believe in me, and I hope you will.
Hi James, let’s just say that I find it a lot easier to believe in people that believe in themselves. So I think we’ll get along just fine when you’re ready. In the meantime, know that I’m looking forward to it. And have a great week! Thanks for posting. Mark
Hi Mark,
Great article! And probably one we could ALL benefit from at one time or another.
While the experience of writing is typically wonderful, enjoyable, liberating and soul-lifting, the process of being an author can be lonely, frustrating, humbling and soul-crushing. One of the “tricks” I use to keep putting one foot in front of the other is to try to live by my rather silly, quirky closing…
Write on, dude! 🙂
Oh, and stay dry, dude!
Derick
Ha, I got you with another irresistible subject line didn’t I? Okay, I know… cheap shot… using a natural disaster to increase my open rate. Oh well. At least I can admit it. Plus I wanted to make sure everyone knew we’re okay. By the way, what do you mean about living by your rather silly, quirky closing? What closing??? Here’s to being silly instead of soul-crushed though. I’m all for that. And it’s always good hearing from you. Have a great week! Mark
Yep, you got me! Ah, sorry for the confusion – I really should work on my writing skills! 🙂 I just meant I try to live by the “closing” that was included in my message (I think that’s what you call the “Best regards” line??). In other words, “Write on, dude!” So I keep trying to write through all the ups and downs…
On another subject, I’ve scheduled a meeting with my publisher on Tuesday, so hopefully some of the clouds will clear on that front…
Got it, and no worries. I’m reminded every day that I’m not nearly as clear as I think I am when I’m communicating. 😉 Keep me posted on the publisher front. Should I be hoping for sunshine and clear skies for you? Or for lightning to strike? Let me know how it went. Mark
Glad you are OK in all the flooding. Great article!
Hi Rinda, and thank you! It’s so easy to think something is wrong when things get hard… but the only thing wrong is that we’re human beings in this thing called life. 😉 Thanks for posting and see you soon. Mark
Mark,
Oh boy this blog hits straight to the heart. It was as though you were speaking directly to me (and tons of others I’m sure!). It reminds me of the saying, “winners never quit and quitters never win.” Thank you for your wise words and warm heart.
Okay, now what DID happen to that author? Just kidding…
Lisa
Oh, good. That’s always my goal. And, in your case, even more so. If you needed to hear it, I’m glad you took time to read it. You and your work are fantastic, so keep reminding yourself of that as you do your rewrites. If you ever forget or need me to remind you, I’ll be there. Mark
Good Morning Mark – fantastic! I so look forward to both you & Ingrid’s weekly pieces, and am glad you’re all safe from the flooding too. This column is a powerful reminder to believe in one’s self, to do or not “do,” but to be clear; and perhaps also to simply start the day with better coffee? In any event, terrific to read! I love how you teach that getting published is a decision, versus mere “luck!” OK, off to grill frogs’ legs..Cheers and happy Sunday!
Hi Leah, as always… I appreciate your good energy. I’ve never tried frog legs, by the way. But I did eat grasshoppers once. Long story. And yes, getting published isn’t luck but a decision. That’s the only way any of us can think if we ever want to accomplish ANYTHING! Have a great week and thanks again for posting. 😉 Mark
Hi Mark,
HONEST, not harsh. After getting fourteen rejections out of forty two queries sent, last week, I was about to decide once again to self publish. But when I gave it some thought, I told myself that self publishing my novel (to me), meant that no agent considered it print worthy, so I’m taking desperate measures in order to get it published. I am sure this is not true, but I had to find some way to decline my invitation to my own “Pity Party.” The result, I’ve gained more momentum.
Hi Juanita, glad you saw this one. I know it can be incredibly difficult to stay strong when it seems like no one is paying attention. I’ve been there many times as an agent as a matter of fact. So keep the pity parties to a minimum and stay strong. By the way, I have an ace up my sleeve for you that I’ll share with you when you send me your additional thoughts that we talked about previously by email. Have a great night and thanks for posting! Mark
Some authors will always have egos too fragile to keep pushing for an agent. At what point do you suggest self-publishing for a psychological boost?
Ha! it’s quite the opposite. Check out these two articles I wrote about self-publishing and then let me know what you think: https://literary-agents.com/category/self-publishing-book/. Self-publishing usually leads to diminished confidence, not the other way around… unfortunately. By the way, if someone needs more of a boost to help see them through the process, that’s what coaches like me are for! Therapy is good for some people, too. 😉 Thanks for posting and have a great week. Mark
Hi Mark,
Glad to hear that you and all your loved ones/friends are okay, despite the flooding in Colorado.
I enjoy reading your advice and words of experience, plus I appreciate that you take the time to ensure the photos depicted throughout your articles have definite tie-ins with the subject matter.
As several have mentioned, your humor breaks up the potentially stressful topics you cover – thanks!
Sherry
Hi Sherry, thank you for that. And I do have fun finding the right photos. Takes longer but I enjoy and my hope is that it helps pull readers through the articles. Sometimes the content isn’t that fun, but it’s important to share. Have a wonderful week and thank you stopping by. Hope to see you again soon! Mark
harsh, no–just honest. but if you want a hockey book, it’s there for the having. platform is solid. photography good. no problem w/rights.outline is mapped out in head. next week, probably I get cooperation from mgmt as I sent them proposal already. Monday I meet the Canadians. Have sports news network..fits dream-the-dream, achievements and sorrows. Why the 2nd class KHL isn’t so 2nd class. Inside stories of players/ mgmt of KHL PragLev. Has good title.studying.
sorry, I don’t “write” until I have strategy mapped out and understand how I “handle” the work which generally makes people angry at me. Up to time I write, I do study and accumulate notes. After I meet Canadians, I will know their response. If it’s warm and friendly, I’ll gt through it. Stats give a story and I’ve seen story repeated many times now. I’ve read enough trashtalk re: European players/ KHL that I can identify basic issues. I’ve top skaters. Several OG /WC Gold + a jagr/rachunek.
jagr-possible s spokesman. people tell me he’s approachable. Rachunek is other. I’d like Rachunek, but afraid to approach. So will do circle approach.Don’t know nothing, but is not about me–is about them, so okay to be stupid. Sorry no money. no food here, but think is solid book, Controversial, filled with dreams/loss and good response to trashtalk. All I can say at moment. think possible-think will have good foundation but is germinal not terminal.is hard because gender issues
sorry- walked in kitchen for coffee and back. it will be split: 2 books. One can be done in a year or so and the second on heels. Is too much material for 1 book I think– there is natural split in format that allows the break, so can be worked concurrently. Second title is good and matches first. When I talk with Canadians, I will know. Proposal already sent to team mgmt. Platform ok. Film/movie–yes. first calculation was about 400pp w/o pictures, crap on backend, credits,blah-blah. pogo
Hi Pogo, I didn’t understand a lot of what you said… but it sounds like you’re working on books or at least thinking about it. I love hearing that. And don’t be afraid to approach anyone about anything. You’re highly intelligent and good at what you do. Always sending you kind thoughts. Mark
well, very kind of you. If it’s determination-I’d say it’s critical factor of crunching through. Confidence helps, too. So ideflating day. One of those days when you get pricked like balloon and illusions/hopes dissolve. I got set for interview-major breakthrugh. Some Canadians recognized me as I came in, but leading Czech player, Taticek, gave me the bump and called me by name. Then they all vanished to dressing room. I went round with my prep cards for interview and got told, “nobody told us”
this put me wrong-footed. So think I did bad job. Made me look stupid when I really prepared. They all went off and “shumper” came back, so I stopped to talk w/him. Then it was easy again, so asked him what he thought re:book. He said, “do it. Nobody writes about this side and inside stories–it’s time. It’d be good.” But feel like I blew it. It’s hard because of the obvious runabout I get, but skater told me, Lev mgmt just disorganized. Nothing harder than being old woman in hockey locker room
so book outline, proposal is basically done. Platform imade. Getting personal support fr Lev skaters. I should be happy because Taticek gave me bump. He called me by name and some others came over to tell me I am good photographer. I should be happy because I am winning respect of team. It’s hard to be old woman, walk in, shoot KHL hockey and then get the constant run-around or stonewalling. So I will ask 2-3 guys to act as liason. It might relax tension for better communication.
This post is off the “amazingly brutal” scale. Absolutely.
I am so glad Mark Malatesta is way beyond only a “contact” in my list – but is in my heart and mind every time my fingers hit those 26 keys. Thanks Mark for all you do…
…for all of us. You are amazing.
Craig Seaton
Hi Craig! Thank you for stopping by and saying hello. Strange but I’m feeling more isolated here knowing that half of my state is floating away in the floods. Not fun. But life and work must go on. So thank you for lightening our day here. More from me soon, and we need to talk soon as well. I’ll send you an email. Your partner in bookdom. Mark 😉