Likelihood of getting a novel published

MyPennysWorth

Hi, I've been thinking for some time now that I'd like to write a book, well a number of book actually, as I have a few decent ideas, and a lot of spare time. I will embark on writing a book regardless of its likelihood of ever getting published, as it is something I feel I need to do.

Its out of curiosity that I would like to see how difficult it is to get something published?

pickarooney

That's a very 'how-long-is-a-piece-of-string' question.

In general terms, as in, how many finished novels end up getting published, the likelihood is very low. Timing, persistence and luck have as much to do with getting published as the quality of the book, so even with a fully copy to review, only someone in the publishing industy might have an idea.

One thing is sure though, if you don't write it, it won't get published! And nobody ever regrets writing a book, just not writing one.

MyPennysWorth

Wise words, Thanks.

I think the whole process will be quite enjoyable. I've spent the last few years writing out of necessity rather than for pleasure, so it'll be nice to write for myself, in my own time, even if know one else ever sees it!

Bluehair

pickarooney wrote: »

That's a very 'how-long-is-a-piece-of-string' question.

In general terms, as in, how many finished novels end up getting published, the likelihood is very low. Timing, persistence and luck have as much to do with getting published as the quality of the book, so even with a fully copy to review, only someone in the publishing industy might have an idea.

One thing is sure though, if you don't write it, it won't get published! And nobody ever regrets writing a book, just not writing one.

One of the best damn answers I've ever seen to an unanswerable question

Teferi

As with all things, it's always good to have a contact.

If sending to an agent I would suggest reading up on how to write a good cover letter too

whatawaster

I read on another site, with quotes from several agents and editors that about 2% of submissions are accepted and published. Seems daunting right.

But the other stat is that if you can write 2 consecutive pages of grammatically correct English - you're already in the top 5-10%.

If you can write and you have a good story - your chances are pretty decent.
If you can't write - no chance.

EileenG

Write the novel before you start thinking about contacts, contracts, agents or anything else. There are an astonishing number of unfinished novels around. It is absolutely certain that if you don't finish the novel, you will never sell it.

By the way, any agent who shows any interest in an unfinished novel by an unpublished writer is running a scam. One member on this board had an experience with an "agent" that showed interest, then demanded €2000 euro to help finish it.

Cadiz

+1 on focussing on actually writing the book(s) over anything else OP, but aspiring writers might find the Writers & Artists' Yearbook useful on all aspects of writing and getting published.

It's a bit expensive, around €20 I think, but I think it's a great resource.