Four editors discussed the publishing biz at Sleuthfest. These included Chris Knopf from The Permanent Press, Erin George from Henery Press, Anne Speyer from Ballantine Books, and Neil Nyren from G.P. Putnam’s Sons.
The first question addressed was if any of the editors would accept a mid-series submission or backlist titles. This would depend upon the rights available. An author has a better chance with a new series or with the relaunch of an ongoing series.
The editors all emphasized the importance of social media for authors. Writers should also have a newsletter, schedule in-person events, speak at libraries and conferences, nurture a relationship with bloggers and reviewers. An author’s website and Facebook page should be “really, really good; new and fresh; welcoming.” With your social media, you should do ten percent book promo and ninety percent interesting content.
What does a publisher have to offer? You get an editorial team, a guiding hand, resources that might not be available otherwise, support, reviews, sales of subsidiary rights. Plus you’ll qualify to speak on conference panels and to enter contests. Print is still a larger proportion of sales compared to ebooks.
Pet Peeves?
· Exclamation Points
· Backstory
· Too much description
· Clichés
· Unrealistic dialogue
Disclaimer: These notes are my interpretation and are subject to errors which are mine alone.
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I am feeling I need updates on my social media platforms. I set them up years ago, and so much has changed since then, including what I look like.
I always advise authors to get a professional headshot taken. You can tell the difference between a professional photo and a casual pose taken by a friend. It’s all about the image you want to project.
Nancy, Thanks for this. Short but very helpful. Tom
You are welcome.