How to Attract a Literary Agent

The Long Road to Publishing: Why Patience is Part of the Process

When you hold a finished novel in your hands, it can feel like magic. But what most readers don’t see is the long, winding journey that led to that book being published. Unlike other creative industries, publishing moves at a pace that often feels glacial—and patience is just as important as talent.

“A writer’s life isn’t easy… but it’s worth it!"

On average, a novel can take more than five years to produce. After finishing a first draft, the real work begins. Most writers revise their manuscripts three to five times before they’re even close to being ready for submission. Each rewrite isn’t just about fixing grammar—it’s about growth. With every draft, your skills sharpen, your voice deepens, and your story becomes stronger. Children's books in the traditional publishing scene can take years to produce, as well, given that the author and illustrator are often two different people. I personally love being an indie-published gal and having creative control - as I am both the writer and the illustrator, I rarely argue with myself! In all honesty, my children's books are available on my website and Amazon as well. livmclean.com

More than twenty years ago, an American Publisher traditionally published two of my manuscripts; it was a small press, but I did have that experience. Now, being independently published, I feel I have been on both sides of the fence.

The Truth About Literary Agents, Rejection, and Keeping Your Balance

Literary agents are often the golden ticket in publishing. Most major publishers won’t even look at a manuscript without one—but here’s something many new writers don’t know: sometimes, if you can secure an offer from a small press on your own, an agent may then take notice and step in to represent you. Well, that means you have to reach out to the literary agent and tell them that you have been offered a contract from a small publisher. That’s one way to get your foot in the door and get yourself an agent. Now, don't forget me when you are rich and famous! LOL

Once you have an agent, the work on your book continues. Together, you’ll polish your manuscript until it’s ready to be placed in front of larger publishers. Editors at publishing houses expect a perfect manuscript—and they’re looking for books that not only shine but also fit the current trends of the market for your particular genre. So it's a good idea to be ready to change things in your novel - do a rewrite or work with your editor to get that book fitting into the mould that will get those pages published.

REJECTION FROM PUBLISHERS

And here’s the hard truth: rejection is part of the game. Be prepared for silence, as well as discouraging rejection letters, following the hundreds of queries you mailed out. I’ll never forget my very first rejection letter—from a writing competition I had entered. The news left me both sad and proud at the same time, as it came signed by the granddaughter of a very famous author. Over the years, I’ve collected numerous rejection letters, horrible emails, and even a few nasty comments on my website, directed at my choice of medium for artwork, and the topics of my children's books have landed me some hate mail. I’ve learned not to get too depressed or excited about anything in this industry. It’s better to keep both feet on the floor. www.livmclean.com

PUBLISHING TRADITIONALLY

Publishing is difficult, yes—but persistence is everything. Keep going, even when your nerves are shot. Don’t expect that premium book deal to walk right up to you—but know that it could still happen... if you put the work in. Editing will be necessary - lots of it - more than you want. The right cover, the perfect artwork—those goosebump-inducing details—will happen if you keep at it! Knowing that finding your publisher often takes years will leave your mindset in a far better place than being ignorant of the time-consuming process of publishing your book.

Whether you self-publish or land with a traditional publisher, much of this process will always be out of your control. What is in your control is your craft. Keep writing.

Keep rewriting.

Keep editing.

And please—take care of your mental health along this journey. Writing can be frustrating, exhausting, and even grief-filled at times. But it can also be healing, rewarding, and beautiful. Be gentle with yourself.

Gently Yours,

Liv McLean

Author, Illustrator, and yes, often left a frustrated writer!