How I got published
Colette Dartford describes the hard work that led to a two-book deal
Colette Dartford
‘I’m not going to lie to you – it’s thrilling when you finally get that yearned-for call from a literary agent, saying they would like to represent you. The lightning bolt of joy makes the misery of all those rejection letters worthwhile, and vindicates your self belief. See, you can write. Your book is good.
‘It took me a few years to get that call and here’s what I learned along the way.
‘Writing a novel is hard and if, like me, you have no formal training in creative writing, it’s harder still. It’s important to read widely, write often and actively seek out constructive criticism. I don’t mean from family or friends – they will tell you they love your writing because they love you – but from professionals who will appraise your work and offer advice on how to improve it.