Every writer dreams of seeing their book in print, the weight of it in your hands, your name on the spine, the quiet satisfaction of knowing it’s finally out there. But between a finished manuscript and a published book lies a maze of querying agents, submission guidelines, and rejection emails that could fill a small library.
If you’re serious about publishing, understanding how the process works, and where you fit within it, is essential.
When people talk about getting published, they’re often referring to the Big Five, the largest and most influential publishing houses in the world:
These companies dominate global book sales and operate through separate branches across regions. For example, landing a deal with Simon & Schuster UK doesn’t automatically mean your book will be distributed in the U.S. Each territory makes its own publishing decisions, which is why authors sometimes sign multiple deals for different markets.
Getting through the door of a Big Five publisher is tough, and for the most part, you’ll need a literary agent to even get a look in.
A literary agent is your professional representative in the publishing world. They pitch your book to editors, negotiate contracts, and help you navigate the fine print of publishing agreements.
Agents usually take around 15% of your earnings from book deals and related rights, such as translations or film options. While it may sound steep, a good agent is often the difference between a form rejection and a book on shelves.
Choosing the right agent is critical. Each one has their own taste, network, and submission preferences. Research agents who represent books similar to yours — most list their clients and recent deals on their websites. Make sure they’re members of reputable organisations (like the Association of Authors’ Agents or AALA), and check what rights they handle and how royalties are managed.
By the time you’re querying, your manuscript should already be in near-publishable shape. Here’s a simple roadmap to get it there:
Developmental Edit
Start by reviewing your story structure, pacing, and character arcs.
If you can, work with an editor to spot issues early.
Peer Review
Ask trusted readers or writing groups for honest feedback.
Revise and Refine
Take their comments seriously and strengthen your weak spots.
Line Edit
Go through your manuscript line by line to tighten sentences and polish tone.
Proofread
Fix grammar, spelling, and regional language differences (e.g., U.S. vs. UK English).
Beta Readers
Send the book to a few readers who match your target audience and gather testimonials or feedback.
Final Check
Address lingering issues and ensure your manuscript is clean, professional, and consistent.
Only once your book is truly ready should you begin reaching out to agents.
A query letter is your first impression, your one-page pitch to convince an agent that your book is worth their time. It should be concise, confident, and tailored to each agent’s submission guidelines.
Here’s what to include:
A brief introduction
Why you’re writing to this agent, your book title, and genre
A short summary
Hook paragraph about the story
Comparison titles Published authors and their book titles to show where your book fits in the market
Author bio
Who you are, any writing credentials, and why you wrote the book
Agents typically request the query letter, a short synopsis (1–2 pages), and the first few chapters. Follow instructions carefully; every agent’s preferences are slightly different.
Once you start querying, keep a tracker of who you’ve contacted, when, and what materials you sent. Most agents respond within 6–12 weeks, though publishing time can stretch longer than you’d like.
If you prefer not to wait on agent replies, self-publishing is a viable and increasingly respected option. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital make it possible to publish your book globally in both print and digital formats.
Self-publishing offers freedom, creative control, faster turnaround, and higher royalties, but it also means taking on the full workload of editor, designer, marketer, and distributor. Success here depends on building an engaged readership and maintaining consistent quality.
Alternatively, small presses and independent publishers can provide the best of both worlds. They often accept unagented submissions, offer professional editorial support, and are more flexible than major houses.
There’s no single way to get published, only the path that suits you best. Some authors thrive in the traditional system, others build careers independently. What matters most is that your manuscript is ready, your expectations realistic, and your determination unwavering.
Publishing is equal parts patience and persistence. Every no is just a step toward the right yes.
Naomi Anne Little is a writer and editor who helps authors refine their manuscripts and navigate the path to publication. Read more guides and insights at naomiannelittle.com.
