How Do You Get a Book Deal? A Step-by-Step Guide for Writers & Authors
So, you want a book deal—a real, publisher-backed, advance-paying book deal that lands your work on bookshelves? Let’s be honest, getting traditionally published isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possible with the right strategy. The good news? You don’t need to be a celebrity or have millions of followers to make it happen—you just need to know what publishers are looking for and how to get your manuscript in front of the right people.
Whether you’re wondering how to get a literary agent, what goes into a killer query letter, or how book deals actually work, this guide breaks it all down step by step!
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1. Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing – Which One is Right for You?
Before deciding on your publishing path, it’s important to understand the key differences between traditional publishing and self-publishing.
With a traditional book deal, a publisher takes on the costs of editing, cover design, printing, and marketing, giving your book access to bookstores and industry connections. The downside? It’s a long process, highly competitive, and you’ll have less control over your book’s final version, pricing, and royalties.
Self-publishing, on the other hand, allows you to keep full creative and financial control, set your own deadlines, and earn higher royalties—but it also means handling (and funding) everything yourself, from editing to marketing.
If you want the credibility and support of a publisher and don’t mind waiting, pursuing a book deal might be the right choice. If you prefer speed, flexibility, and full ownership of your work, self-publishing could be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your goals, timeline, and how much control you want over your publishing journey.
Related: Before You Self-Publish: Experts Answer Your Top Questions on Editing, Marketing & Design
2. How to Get a Literary Agent (And Why You Need One)
If you're aiming for a traditional book deal, securing a literary agent is one of the most important steps in the process. Most major publishers don’t accept unagented submissions, meaning your manuscript won’t even make it past the slush pile without an agent to pitch it for you.
But an agent does more than just get your foot in the door—they negotiate your contract, sell foreign and film rights, and advocate for your best interests throughout your publishing career.
How to Find the Right Literary Agent
Not all agents represent all genres, so researching agents who specialize in your type of book is key. Start by looking at Manuscript Wish List (MSWL), QueryTracker, and Publishers Marketplace to find agents actively looking for books like yours. Make a list of agents who seem like a good fit, and pay attention to their submission guidelines—each agent has different preferences for queries, sample pages, and proposals.
Query Letters 101: How to Make Yours Stand Out
Your query letter is your first (and sometimes only) chance to impress an agent, so it needs to be strong. A solid query includes:
A compelling hook – One or two sentences that capture the heart of your story.
A short book summary – A brief, engaging description of your plot without giving away everything.
A bio – A quick introduction to who you are and why you’re the right person to write this book.
Personalization – Mention why you’re querying this specific agent (e.g., they represent similar books).
What Happens After Signing With an Agent?
Once you land an agent, they’ll likely ask for revisions to fine-tune your manuscript before submitting it to publishers. Then, they’ll create a submission strategy, pitch your book to editors, and negotiate offers if a publisher bites.
While there are no guarantees, a strong agent increases your chances of getting a book deal, better contract terms, and more opportunities for your career. Having an agent is like having a business partner who believes in your work—and getting the right one can be a game-changer.
3. How to Submit a Book to a Publisher
Once you’ve polished your manuscript and secured a literary agent, the next step is submitting your book to publishers.This process involves pitching your work to acquisitions editors who decide whether your book is a good fit for their publishing house. Most fiction submissions require a completed manuscript, while nonfiction books often sell on a book proposal that outlines the concept, marketability, and your platform as an author.
Follow Submission Guidelines Carefully
Each publisher has specific submission guidelines that must be followed to the letter. These guidelines outline what materials to include, the format required, and where to send them. Some publishers want the full manuscript, while others request just a few sample chapters and a synopsis. Ignoring these guidelines can get your submission rejected before it’s even read.
What Publishers Look for in a Manuscript
Publishers aren’t just looking for great writing—they want books that will sell. Here’s what matters most in a submission:
Marketability – Does your book have a clear audience, strong genre fit, and commercial appeal?
Strong Writing & Unique Voice – Is your manuscript polished and compelling?
Author Platform – For nonfiction, do you have a built-in audience that will help sell the book?
How Long Does It Take to Hear Back?
The waiting game can be one of the hardest parts of the publishing process. Responses from publishers can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on their schedule and interest. While you wait, the best thing you can do is keep writing, start your next project, or build your author platform so you're ready when your book finally finds the right home.
4. What Publishers Look for in a Book Deal
Landing a book deal isn’t just about writing a great story—it’s about convincing a publisher that your book is worth investing in. Publishers take financial risks with every book they acquire, so they look for projects that have a strong chance of selling well and connecting with readers. Here’s what makes a book stand out to acquisitions editors.
Marketability: Does Your Book Fit a Clear Genre and Audience?
Publishers want books that are easy to categorize and market. If your book fits into a clear genre with a built-in readership, it has a better chance of getting picked up. They consider:
Genre trends – Is your book in a genre that’s currently selling well?
Comparable titles – Can your book be pitched as “perfect for fans of X”?
Audience demand – Is there a clear reader base looking for books like yours?
Platform & Reach: Do You Have an Audience?
For nonfiction especially, publishers expect authors to bring an existing platform—which means having an email list, social media following, or established credibility in your niche. Even fiction authors benefit from an online presence, as it shows publishers you have an audience eager to read your work.
Compelling Story or Concept: What Makes Your Book Different?
Publishers are constantly evaluating what makes a book stand out in a crowded market. They want something fresh—whether it’s a unique premise, a timely topic, or an unforgettable voice. If your book can be pitched in a way that makes people instantly curious, excited, or emotionally invested, you’re on the right track.
Professionalism & Writing Quality: Are You Ready for the Industry?
Even the best ideas won’t get far if the manuscript is messy or the pitch is weak. Publishers expect:
A clean, well-edited manuscript that shows you’ve put in the work.
A strong, concise pitch that clearly communicates what your book is about.
A polished query letter that follows industry standards and makes them want to read more.
At the end of the day, publishers are looking for books that are not just well-written, but well-positioned for success.The stronger your pitch, platform, and positioning, the better your chances of getting that book deal.
Related: 15 Ways Authors Can Use Social Media to Drive Traffic to Their Website & Grow Their Newsletter
5. Understanding Publishing Contracts & Royalties
Getting a book deal is exciting, but before signing anything, it’s crucial to understand the terms of your publishing contract. A book deal isn’t just about getting published—it’s a business agreement that determines how much you’ll get paid, how your book will be distributed, and what rights you keep (or give away). Here’s what every author should know before signing on the dotted line.
What’s Included in a Book Deal Contract?
A traditional publishing contract outlines the financial terms and rights associated with your book. The key components include:
Advance – The upfront payment an author receives, which is paid against future royalties.
Royalties – The percentage of book sales the author earns after the advance is recouped.
Rights – Specifies whether the publisher has exclusive rights to print, digital, audiobook, and foreign editions.
How Much Do Authors Get Paid?
Traditional publishing pays differently than self-publishing. Most authors receive an advance (ranging from $1,000 to six figures), but won’t earn additional money until their book sells enough copies to "earn out" the advance. After that, they receive royalties, which typically range from:
10–15% of hardcover sales
5–10% of paperback sales
25% of ebook sales
Since advances are based on estimated sales, some books never earn out, meaning the author doesn’t receive additional payments beyond the advance.
Key Contract Terms to Look Out For
Publishing contracts are legally binding, so understanding the fine print is essential. Watch for:
Royalty structure – Ensure you understand how royalties are calculated.
Reversion clauses – Defines when rights revert back to the author (important for future republishing).
Deadline requirements – The timeline for manuscript delivery, revisions, and publication.
Subsidiary rights – Determines whether the publisher controls audiobook, film, or international rights.
Why You Need an Agent or Lawyer to Review Your Contract
Publishing contracts can be complex and heavily favor the publisher.
This is where having a literary agent or publishing lawyer makes a huge difference. An agent negotiates better terms, higher advances, and protects your rights—things that could affect your career for years to come. If you don’t have an agent, hiring a lawyer to review the contract before signing could save you from costly mistakes down the road.
Understanding your contract gives you power and control over your writing career. Don’t rush the process—make sure the deal works for you before saying yes.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Book Deal
Getting a book deal isn’t just about writing a great manuscript—it’s about making sure agents and publishers see you as a professional, marketable author. While talent is important, taking the right steps to position yourself in the industry can significantly boost your chances of landing a deal. Here’s how to stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting published.
Build an Author Platform
Even fiction writers need an online presence. Publishers want authors who can help promote their books, and having an author website, blog, or engaged social media following shows that you’re serious about connecting with readers. A simple author website with an about page, book info, and a blog or newsletter signup can go a long way in proving that you’re ready for the industry.
Attend Writing Conferences
One of the best ways to get on an agent’s radar is meeting them in person at a writing conference. Many conferences offer pitch sessions where you can present your book idea directly to agents and publishers. Even if you don’t land an agent immediately, attending these events helps you build relationships and gain insights into the industry. Some top conferences include Writer’s Digest Conference, AWP, ThrillerFest, and regional SCBWI events for children’s writers.
Polish Your Manuscript Before Querying
First impressions matter, and a well-edited manuscript stands out. Before sending your work to agents or publishers, consider hiring a professional editor or joining a critique group to refine your manuscript. Even small mistakes in grammar, pacing, or structure can be enough for an agent to pass on your submission. Investing in edits before querying increases your chances of getting a request for a full manuscript.
Network with Other Writers
Publishing is a small world, and connections matter. Joining a writing group, attending workshops, or engaging with the writing community online can lead to valuable opportunities. Many authors land agents through referrals from other writers who have already gone through the process. The more you engage with the writing world, the more doors you’ll open.
What to Do If You Don’t Get a Book Deal
Rejections are a normal part of the publishing journey—even bestselling authors have faced them. Not landing a book deal doesn’t mean your book isn’t good enough—it just means it hasn’t found the right fit yet. If traditional publishing isn’t working out, here are some next steps to keep your book moving forward.
Revise & Requery – Should You Try Again?
If you’ve sent out multiple queries with no requests for full manuscripts, it may be time to rework your query letter, first pages, or manuscript itself. Consider:
Feedback from agents – If you received personalized rejections, pay attention to any patterns.
Query letter tweaks – Is your pitch clear, compelling, and marketable?
Manuscript revisions – If your book isn’t getting requests, consider working with a developmental editor or critique partner before requerying.
Querying new agents – Maybe you just haven’t found the right match yet. Research and submit to another round of agents.
Explore Small Presses & Indie Publishers
If traditional publishing houses aren’t biting, smaller independent presses may be a great alternative. Many indie publishers accept unagented submissions, meaning you can submit directly without needing a literary agent. Small presses often provide more creative control, higher royalties, and a more personal publishing experience—but may require more marketing effort on your part.
Consider Self-Publishing – Taking Control of Your Book’s Future
Not getting a book deal doesn’t mean your book can’t succeed. Self-publishing puts you in control of everything—editing, cover design, pricing, and marketing. While it requires more work upfront, self-published authors keep higher royalties and have direct access to platforms like Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, and IngramSpark.
If you choose to self-publish, investing in a professional author website and marketing plan can help your book gain traction, attract readers, and sell successfully. Many authors who start out self-publishing eventually land traditional deals later because of their success.
Is a Book Deal Right for You?
Getting a book deal takes patience, persistence, and a strong understanding of what publishers are looking for.
From crafting the perfect query letter to securing a literary agent and negotiating contracts, traditional publishing is a long game—but one that can pay off with the right strategy. If this path feels right for you, keep writing, revising, and submitting—every "no" gets you closer to the right "yes."
No matter where you are in your publishing journey, having a strong online presence can set you apart.
A professional author website not only establishes credibility but also helps agents, publishers, and readers find you. Ready to build your platform? Let’s create a website that makes you stand out!
