So I have finally finished revising my horror novel, “They’re Watching”, and a friend and I are proofreading the final version so that it’s ready when I start querying agents in the next few weeks.

Since I have decided to try the traditional publishing route first, I am settling in for the long but hopeful journey to getting this book, and others, out into the world.

Before I could even start querying, I had to spend countless hours researching potential agents. What genres do they represent? Who are some of their clients? Have they published any books similar to mine? Are they even open to queries? If so, what do they want in a submission package: query, synopsis, sample pages? So now I have a list and I will start sending out batches of half a dozen at a time.

Here’s where things get interesting. It could take months, even a year to potentially get an agent. Expect to get lots of rejections. Expect to be ghosted by some. But, by some wonderful chance that an agent does show an interest in my book, the next step is likely to either send a partial or full manuscript for them to consider.

Now, the waiting continues. But again, let’s say I get an offer. The agent may suggest edits and revisions. Now it’s back to working the manuscript until it’s ready for the next step. Then the agent will pitch my book to editors and publishers for consideration. And again, let’s say we get an offer to publish the book. Yay, right?

Now it will depend on the publisher’s timeline as to when the book will come out, but it’s likely going to be a year to eighteen months. A cover will be created for me. It’s unlikely that I will have any creative control over this. The book needs to fit in with what’s going to be out in the market in the same genre.

But there will be an advance of some kind. There will be some marketing support. The book will be edited and proofread.

So let me suggest a possible timeline if all the planets actually align:

Writing and revising the book:  at least a year

Querying and securing an agent: months to at least a year

Revising from agent’s feedback: weeks to months

Getting picked up by a publisher: months

The book comes out: could take eighteen months

Yep! Could be three years before readers can find “They’re Watching” on bookstore shelves.

So in the meantime, it’s time to get writing that next book.