Success Story Interview - M. Charles

An Interview with M. Charles (BlaiseBynny on QT) upon receiving an offer of representation from agent Tamar Rydzinski of Context Literary Agency.

11/04/2024

QT: How long have you been working on this book?

M. Charles:
Altogether, probably six months. Originally drafted in under three, but rewritten and edits happened since.

QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?

M. Charles:
Absolutely, there were times I wondered why I kept going, but the support of family and friends, especially fellow authors were key. That, and being stubborn.

QT: Is this your first book?

M. Charles:
No. I have three other finished ms, two upper MG and an adult

QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?

M. Charles:
I lost count. It originally started out set in the 80s, so I rewrote it to a contemporary setting.

QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?

M. Charles:
Absolutely

QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?

M. Charles:
Both? I did a quick sketch and ended up hitting all the plot points I planned, but HOW I got there was a surprise.

QT: How long have you been querying for this book? Other books?

M. Charles:
This time, about six months. My previous agent left publishing.

QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?

M. Charles:
About 75.

QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?

M. Charles:
Not really

QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?

M. Charles:
It’s a long, slow process. Patience and stubbornness are important. No agent really IS worse than a bad agent. Do your research and trust your instincts