Question re: Marketing a Series

[Homer]

I've written a trilogy--together the three novels comprise a dark tale about the fall of Classical Rome and the rise of monolithic Christianity (I see it as historical fiction crossing over into literary fiction; as I see it, the innovation is a postmodernist fall of Rome novel; the trilogy deconstructs myths while infusing a touch of magical realism). Yes, I set out to write a single novel, but just after beginning the last third of my story, I realized that what I was creating was three novels, which together would ultimately comprise about 260,000 words. Yes, I know this happens a lot, and the three novels structure sometimes turns out to be a fiction (no pun intended); but trust me here, at least for purposes of answering my question, that what I really have is three novels each of similar length (82,000-88,000 words) and each comprising a distinct build up, climax and resolution. Still, the third novel contains the climax of the whole series; there is a strong interrelationship between "Book I," "Book II," and "Book III" (each is separately titled, and the series has a distinct title).

So here is my question: Can or should I send three queries, three partials, etc.? The benefits, as I see them, are that I get more space to fully develop my presentation, and I really drive home the point that these really are three novels. (Needless to say, compressing my entire story into one paragraph is awful; of course you all are aware of this kind of agony.) But obviously, if I annoy, I defeat my purpose. What do you think?

[clara bow]

Hi, Homer, welcome to AW!

Everything I've read here recommends trying to sell agents on the one novel first. You could mention briefly in the query that the book has series potential. The risk of pitching a series is that that as a new author without a track record, agents will have a difficult time predicting if the first book will sell, let alone three.

On the other hand, I recently read (can't remember if was something posted here or elsewhere) that book deals generally two-three book deals, some of which are probably for series. Also, some agents have written or blogged online about their willingness to learn if a book has series potential (check also the two threads here on agents Jenny Bent and Ginger Clark).

A lot will depend on the nature of the series being pitched. So feel free to pitch yours, but know that there are significant risks. I do suggest using one query, and if agent guidelines allow a partial, send the one from the first book only. If agents allow multiple queries, then you'd be in luck regarding pitching all three books at once.

[PeeDee]

One good idea is, mention it's a series, but make sure that the first book stands on its own just fine. The first Harry Potter book, for example, is a story unto itself. Likewise, Asimov's Foundation. You see? That way, if they opt out of your second and third book (or, more accurately, just don't opt in) then you have one good book out there, and two sequels sitting and waiting for when there's a demand for them.

[Gillhoughly]

When courting an agent you send your 50 pages + synopsis of one complete novel.

Mention in your cover letter that it's the first of a three-book story arc and that the other two books are finished.

If the agent wants to see more after the first 50 pages she'll let you know.

Good luck!

[Tilly]

If you're going to mention the series, make sure you also mention that the first book can act as a stand alone if that's the case.

[Homer]

Thanks all.