From manuscript to 5-book deal (how to get your book published!)
Aspiring to see your book on bookstore shelves one day? It’s not just about writing a compelling story; it's about navigating the complex world of publishing. On the Courageous Creatives Podcast, best-selling author Maya Linnell shared her journey from manuscript to securing a five-book deal with one of the Big Five publishers, Allen & Unwin. This article dives into her experiences, insights, and practical tips for authors who want to turn their dream into reality.
A Lifelong Love for Storytelling
Maya Linnell grew up in a home where books were a staple.
"I grew up in a household where books were open slather. We could read whatever we wanted," she recalls. This freedom to explore different genres sparked a love for storytelling that she carried through her life, eventually influencing her career as a rural journalist before she transitioned to full-time writing.
Her father, a freelance photojournalist, further inspired her.
"He would spend a lot of time traveling the countryside, writing stories," she says. “Seeing that, I thought, wouldn’t it be nice to turn storytelling into a career?”
While the path wasn’t linear, Maya passion for writing persisted, and after years of working and raising her children, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming an author.
Finding Inspiration in Everyday Stories
Maya’s first novel, Wildflower Ridge, was inspired by an article she read about a woman who, after falling ill, returned to her family farm and discovered a newfound love for rural life.
"When I read that article, something clicked," she says. "I thought of Penny, my main character, and the story began to unfold. I loved exploring what it would feel like to return home and rediscover your roots."
This approach of drawing from authentic stories and rural experiences is a hallmark of Maya’s work.
"I like to write about people that might be like the people I'd meet at the school pick-up or the paddocks over," she explains. This relatability is a key reason her characters resonate with so many readers.
The Journey from Manuscript to Publishing Deal
Getting a manuscript published is no small feat. Maya’s path involved extensive research, building her platform, and seizing networking opportunities. Here’s how she made it happen:
Invest in Learning: Maya took several writing courses to develop her skills and understand story structure. She insists that treating writing like a profession is essential: "You wouldn’t expect to play Wimbledon without any training or coaching, right? Writing is the same—you need to learn the craft."
Build an Online Presence: Long before pitching her manuscript, Maya focused on building a strong social media platform. "I knew I had to show publishers that I was serious," she says. "When the time came to pitch, I wasn’t just a name with a manuscript—I was a writer with a brand."
Research and Networking: Maya attended conferences and events through the Australian Society of Authors, where she could pitch her work directly to publishers and agents. "It’s like speed dating, but for manuscripts. You only have a few minutes to make an impression," she explains. "I prepared like crazy, and when publishers showed interest, I sent off my work and crossed my fingers."
Persistence and Patience: Despite rejections and delays, Maya’s persistence paid off. Her dedication to refining her manuscript and pitching it to multiple publishers led to a breakthrough with Allen & Unwin. "There’s a lot of luck involved—having something that somebody needs at the time they need it," she reflects. "But you can make your own luck if you put in the work."
The Realities of the Publishing World: Debunking Common Myths
For many aspiring authors, the idea of publishing can be shrouded in misconceptions. Maya sheds light on some common myths:
Myth: "A great book will sell itself."
Reality: "It’s not just about writing the book; it’s about setting yourself up for success by researching the industry, understanding what agents and publishers are looking for, and being proactive,” she shares.
Myth: "Publishing success happens overnight."
Reality: "I often hear people talk about ‘overnight success,’ but it took me years of hard work, rewriting, pitching, and learning. It’s all about making your own luck,” she shares.
Myth: "Agents and publishers will find you if your work is good enough."
Reality: "I did my homework before every pitch. Knowing who I was talking to and what they were looking for gave me the confidence I needed to present my work,” she shares.
Maya also highlights the importance of persistence.
"Sometimes it’s not a ‘no’ but a ‘not yet,’” she notes. One of her early experiences involved what she thought was a rejection from a publisher, only to find out later that it was a request for revision.
Actionable Tips for Aspiring Authors
Maya’s experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the publishing industry. Here are her top tips:
Educate Yourself: Invest time in understanding the craft of writing and the business of publishing. Listen to industry podcasts, read books on writing, and take courses to refine your skills.
Establish Your Brand: Start building your online presence early. Engage with other writers, share your journey, and connect with your audience through social media platforms.
Network and Pitch: Join writing groups, attend conferences, and be proactive in pitching your manuscript. Research publishers and agents thoroughly to find the right fit for your work.
Be Persistent: Rejection is part of the process. Learn from feedback, revise your work, and keep pitching. “Every ‘no’ gets you closer to the ‘yes’ you need,” Maya says.
Collaborate and Engage with the Creative Community: Work with other creatives to expand your reach and build community support. Maya’s collaboration with local jewelry makers for themed book merchandise helped her connect with readers in a tangible way.
Final Thoughts: Making Luck Happen
Maya’s journey shows that while luck plays a role in getting published, it’s the hard work and preparation behind the scenes that truly make a difference.
"It’s about setting yourself up for success and working towards your goal every single day," she advises. "You can make your own luck if you’re willing to put in the effort."
For aspiring authors, Maya’s story is a reminder that while the road to publication may be long and filled with challenges, persistence, strategy, and a willingness to learn can turn a manuscript into a book deal.
Ready to start your own writing journey?
Follow these actionable steps, and who knows—you might be the next success story in the publishing world!
about Courageous Creatives Podcast
Courageous Creatives Podcast is for creatives, small business owners, and side-hustlers ready to build successful, modern careers on their own terms. Hosted by Georgina Morrison, a multi-creative business owner who has forged her own successful path, this podcast is on a mission to bust the ‘starving artist’ myth and empower you to thrive in your creative business — no matter your postcode. Tune in for actionable tips on small business growth, breaking through industry gatekeeping, and overcoming obstacles. Let’s transform your creative career! Welcome to the Courageous Creatives Podcast.
