Hatrack River Writers Workshop: In need of some advice

This is topic In need of some advice in forum Open Discussions About Writing at Hatrack River Writers Workshop.

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Posted by KStar (Member # 4968) on :

Hello all,

In mid August an agent requested my full ms off a query later. I sent it, in a couple weeks they got back to me saying they were almost done, loved it, and wanted a synopsis to share with other members of the agency. I sent the synopsis, and they responded saying they would get back to me ASAP. That will be 2 months ago tomorrow.

On the agency website it says to give them 2 months for a full. Meanwhile, I am going nuts. So now the two month mark has arrived and I am allowed to send a communication their way. What would be the best format for this? We've had email conversation so I am assuming this would be acceptable, but what should I say? Does anyone have any pointers? I totally appreciate it.

Thanks a gazillion.

[This message has been edited by KStar (edited October 21, 2008).]

Posted by steffenwolf (Member # 8250) on :

First of all, congrats! It sounds like you've generated some real interest in your ms.

Since you've had personal email contact with them, I would probably stick to that (unless they have guidelines stating otherwise). You could always consider asking your agent what's appropriate too.

I would follow a query letter format, keep it professional, but since you've had personal contact with them before you might be able to be a little bit more familiar (I'm no expert on that, I'm assuming someone else will come along who knows more than me).

Definitely remind them of your name, the title of the manuscript, and the approximate date that you sent it. Be polite. Don't be pushy. Thank them for their time.

Posted by KayTi (Member # 5137) on :

And be BRIEF! If you're following up, use a previous email thread and reply to it so previous emails are retained as a reminder (that always helps me when someone does it that way for me for things I've had email conversations about.) But in your follow-up, just be brief.

Hello <person>
I just wanted to check in with you and see if you had a chance to share my <story title> synopsis with others in your agency, and if so, what their reaction was. (I'm sure you could word this much better, but aim for 1-2 sentences.)

I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you so much for your time.

Your Name Here

Posted by Zero (Member # 3619) on :

What's the latest on this?

Posted by KStar (Member # 4968) on :

Thanks to both of you, and I do have an email thread. I will use that.

I think I'm too worried I won't get a response or something. I'll let you know how it goes.