IT PAYS TO BE CAREFUL

This time last year, I was still in the process of sending out queries when I came across a reference on Wikipedia for a new literary agency in the UK. Without looking into their credentials, I sent off a query letter together with sample chapters. When I actually looked at their website in more detail, I couldn't find any reference to their names, postal address or phone number. Anyway, they didn't get back to me within the stated time frame of four weeks so I assumed that would be the end of the matter.

About a month go, I received a request for the full manuscript. The email provided me with a name, and so I started looking into this person's background. In the process I discovered that she'd previously advertised herself as a literary agent under this name but given up. I also found out that she'd set up as a publisher back in 2010/11, but went out of business in 2012. Some of the authors whose work she published during this period are shown on Amazon as having self-published their work again in 2013. I also found a reference to this literary entrepreneur having dabbled in the cake decorating business.

Skeptical, but still a little curious, I replied to the email and asked where this agency was based and who the other members of the team were. I didn't receive a response to my questions, so decided not to pursue the matter any further. I have now discovered that the agency website has been taken down.








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