Back in 2012, when I had the first book of the Nukari Invasion Trilogy edited, I set out to find an agent and a publisher. The process was long, and ended in many rejections. I think what frustrated me the most was the fact an agency could take six to twelve months to determine whether they wanted to work with you. In addition they demanded “exclusive” review rights to your manuscript, effectively locking out finding other agents in the meantime.
Looking back, I had a great deal to learn about writing. Honestly, I’m always learning, but there was a far greater learnings that needed to take place at that point. I do understand why I was not picked up.
As my amazing editor, Arlene Robinson, completed the review of my fourth full novel, D’mok Revival: New Eden, she recommended I not self-publish. She felt the quality of writing was ready for an agent. I can’t tell you how humbled I was by her kind words. I have a very deep trust and respect for Arlene, so for her to say this was very significant to me.
This, of course, creates quite the conflict. I want to release New Eden! There’s AMAZING new artwork from Glenn Clovis to debut. Fans are clamoring for what comes next. The bomb at the end of D’mok Revival: Descension left many fans screaming “WHAT!” and wanting more. At least the approach worked! Sorry!
I’m also very proud of D’mok Revival: New Eden. Many events happen in the book that set the tone for future entries in the series (of which many are planned). In fact, I’m already one third of the way done with Weun Academy: Boy with the Green Eyes (working title). It’s the first official spin-off picking up after the New Eden novel.
To be honest, I was planning on going after an agent with Weun Academy. I feel the story is strong, and has the right combination to appeal to a marketplace hungry for more science fiction, superhuman, and youth focused stories.
I believe I’m going to look into the contemporary way to approach agents. Things may have changed in the past 4 years. Certainly the agents and agencies will have changed. If you’re interested in getting an early preview copy of New Eden let me know. I love passionate people that provide honest feedback. All I ask is that you’d support the book when it official comes out.
I’ll keep you posted!