The Fairy God-Agent

Agentless as I am, I have no real experience for what to expect from an agent.

In my dream world, my agent is someone who believes in my writing and is dedicated to marketing it. They are not afraid of telling me how things work and what steps I need to take in order to make that happen. Likewise, they are working equally hard to get me published in a way that suits both of our interests. I mean, they don't get paid if I don't get published, so they can't afford to be complacent.

My agent would keep me abreast of what's happening in the industry. They have connections with editors and publishers and know the best fit for my books. They also let me know what I need to do in order to make things fit.

We are honest with each other and share a mutual respect. They are my most steadfast advocate and my harshest critic -- but always in the name of making progress. They will always pursue the best contract, if not always the easiest. They want me to succeed because that means we both will be succeeding (and because they like me -- it could happen).

I am being proactive in making the dream come true. Of course, I occasionally hear stories about agent/writer relationships that make my dream look like a fantasy. Perhaps I am still innocent enough to think the fantasy can become my reality.

Someday my agent will magically respond to my email with a personal note that indicates they read my query/partial, love my writing, my voice, and my direction. They will offer me the guidance I need and put my book in front of publishers who will respond, both to the noted good judgment of my agent and the quality of my story. When that day comes, I will magically lose fifty pounds and ride away on my unicorn.

Well, maybe not that last bit.