For Writers
What is Manuscript Wish List®? And what’s #MSWL?
#MSWL is the Twitter version of Manuscript Wish List®, a place for agents and editors to post what they wish they had in their inbox. It exists to help them find specific things they’d like to read, represent and/or acquire.
Only agents and editors post on #MSWL and ManuscriptWishList.com, but writers can search the posts to find people who are compatible with their work.
Writers should NOT post on the hashtag. It’s mostly read by writers (so this won’t help you), and if agents do happen to see your tweet, they’ll be annoyed that you broke the rules, and this will reflect poorly on you as a potential client.
Asking a question of an agent, however, is fine–for example, “You mention liking Regency romances. What about Edwardian?” But don’t use the hashtag in your tweets. If you need to reference the tag, you can say “I saw that you posted on MSWL” without cluttering the feed for everyone else.
How do I submit work to an agent/editor who takes submissions directly from authors?
While some agents and editors have opted to include their submissions email, others prefer you do the following:
1. Go to their agency/publisher site.
2. Look up their submission guidelines.
3. Follow those guidelines, and submit traditionally–usually with an emailed query.
Please do not leave your pitch in the comments. We will not post them, and the agent/editor will not see them.
How do I submit work to an editor who only takes agented submissions?
Unfortunately, you’ll first have to find an agent–and there are plenty here!–to get your work to that editor.
Please do not submit directly, or s/he may opt to be removed from this site.
Can you guarantee that everyone on this site is legit?
You should always do your research. Google that agent or editor, look him/her up on Preditors & Editors, Absolute Write, and Publishers Marketplace. Ask if that agent adheres to AAR Cannon of Ethics (though there are plenty of good agents who are not members of the AAR). Speak with a current client or author, and ask for a referral. Do your due diligence. We can’t guarantee that every match will be a successful one, but these steps improve your odds dramatically.
Can you forward a note to an editor for me? You’re an agent, so…
I’m sorry, but we are not comfortable doing that.
I’m a writer, and I see that an agent who already rejected my work has asked for something just like it! Should I resubmit?
In general, no–usually an agent’s answer stands. Unless the agent specifically says s/he is open to seeing works a second time for #MSWL, it’s a firm answer.
I want the password.
I’m sorry, but the password is only for agents and editors–it’s the only way to make some editors feel safe enough to submit their information here. We will be verifying your identity before sending.
Why don’t you include contact information for all of the agents and editors?
That’s up to the agent or editor. If s/he opted out of putting that on the site, we aren’t about to disrespect that.
You can always Google “[Name] submission guidelines” for agents to find out how to submit.
Would you take on a book like…?
It’s probably best to ask that agent directly. Or–better yet–do your research, and then query him/her.
I have another question.
You can use our contact form. Please note that, like all of the forms on this site, it automatically logs IP addresses
For Agents/Editors
What is Manuscript Wish List®? And what’s #MSWL?
#MSWL is the Twitter version of Manuscript Wish List®, a place for agents and editors to post what they wish they had in their inbox. It exists to help them find specific things they’d like to read.
Only agents and editors post on #MSWL and ManuscriptWishList.com, but writers can search the posts to find people who are compatible with their work.
Is it too late to submit a listing?
Not at all! This is an ongoing project. All agents and editors with an @YourCompanyName.com email address can apply. Please use the form on the Join page.
Can I change/update my listing?
Absolutely! You can and should as your needs change. One of the great things about version 3.0 is that it added the ability for each agent and editor on the site to have his/her own login information and password—so updating is easy.
When you receive your registration packet, it will come with instructions to create and update your own profile—or, if you’ve already created one with an earlier version, how to update it.
I need tech help. HELP!
We know this is new and will take some time to learn! Don’t worry. We’re here.
Please send an email to info [at] ManuscriptWishList [dot] com and someone will reply shortly.
Why are some of the posts password-protected?
We did this after realizing that some editors–who do not accept unagented submissions–were uncomfortable with the idea of their information being out there. This way, only agents and editors have this information–and no one has to worry about about phone calls like “I know I’m supposed to go through an agent, but I have something JUST like…”
We’ll send instructions for password-protecting your post in your registration packet. This is the recommended setting for editors who only take agented submissions.
This way, your post will simply appear like this to the public:
[Publishing company] Editor
Agented Submissions Only
[Genres]
How do I get the password?
The first step is to join. We’ll verify your identity, and—once your profile is up—send you the password.
How long does it take for you to post/update new listings?
Though much of version 3.0 is automated, we do still have humans running the vital elements behind the scenes (approving new accounts and profile updates) to keep everything running smoothly. Please have patience. If you need something urgently, please email info@ManuscriptWishList.com.
I have another question.
You can use our contact form. Please note that, like all of the forms on this site, it automatically logs IP addresses