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Expert: - 12/6/2009


Question
QUESTION: In addition to my six already published novels and upcoming projects, I have a completed novel on a paranormal theme which I am seeking a home for. The exciting and fast paced plot involves such themes as reincarnation, past life regression, psychics, clandestine government conspiracies, official cover-ups and unsolved mysteries stretching back decades. I have previously contacted many agents and publishers about the project with mixed results, so any suggestions anyone may have would be most welcome.

ANSWER: Hi, Simon!

This is a pretty heavy topic for MG, but if handled well, it might work. There is actually a very successful adult bestseller out there with a similar theme. I think if you compare it to that book, you might have some success with agents/editors. The book is "The Reincarnationist" by M.J. Rose. It's been optioned for television, so it might be a good time to compare it to yours. You might pick up the book to see how closely it compares in theme. Plus, it's just a really good story!

Good luck!

Cathy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I agree it is a little heavy for the age range, but it has had a favourable response so far from the publishers who have seen the synopsis and sample chapters. 'The Reincarnationist' sounds fascinating and there is a video interview with the author posted online. It is of course for adults, so the comparison may not sit well with some publishers. Any thoughts on who might publish something like this for children aged ten to twelve?  

Answer
Not really. I don't keep up much with YA or MG books. But what you might do is go over to one of my favorite writer sites, AbsoluteWrite and ask the people in the Children's Book forum. I have no doubt they'll direct you to good pubs to try! :)

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11

Good luck!

Cathy

Careers: Writing

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Cathy Clamp

Expertise

I'm happy to answer questions about any aspect of writing articles, short stories and novels, from the beginning kernel of an idea through completion. I can help with writing a query letter and synopsis to an agent or editor. I can explain publishing terminology and acronyms. I can also assist with questions about verifying the credentials of agents/publishers and how to proceed once you've been accepted for publication. I can teach the rules of formatting a manuscript, creating viable plots, characterization and flow in the following genres: romance, science fiction, fantasy, thrillers, suspense, horror, women's fiction, mainstream and mystery. I can also answer questions about writing for major print magazines in the outdoor genre (hunting/fishing/boating/travel.)

Experience

I'm a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance for Tor/Forge Books . Along with a co-author, I've published fifteen mass market novels since 2004, and have contracts for four more books through 2011. I've also published more than two dozen feature articles in leading outdoor magazines.

Organizations
Romance Writers of America, Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Western Outdoor Writers, Horror Writers of America, National Association of Legal Assistants.

Publications
Magazines--Guns & Ammo, Fur-Fish-Game, Rocky Mountain Game & Fish, Deer & Deer Hunting. Many others. Novels/Anthologies--Tor/Forge Books, Western Reflections Publishing, BenBella Books, Running Press, Wild Child Publishing. Many others.

Education/Credentials
Published Author. Published Freelance Writer. Certified Paralegal with specialities in intellectual property (copyright, trademark, patent) and real estate.

Awards and Honors
USA Today bestseller, Waldenbooks Mass Market Paperback Top 20 bestseller, Nielsen BookScan Top 20 bestseller, Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, 2009, Write Touch Readers Award, EVVY Award, The Lories Best Paranormal. Many others.

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