Since I haven’t asked this author for permission to use the information and there is a likelihood I may get some information wrong, I am not naming the author. It was a fascinating meeting mostly focusing on the business side of writing: agents, publishers, editors, leeway for creative control.
These notes are for my own use but take them as you want.
The author mentioned Thrillerfest and discussed how loaded it was with International high-caliber writers. I must get to Thrillerfest next year. New York in July, well, at least it’s not NY in August. Or Houston at anytime of the year.
Lee Child was mentioned as a sharp business man. If you know my great love for twitter (yes, seriously), you can appreciate that I appreciate that Lee Child has not one, but three twitter accounts.
The author said that to reach legendary status as a writer, the author has to create or recreate a genre. The most obvious example is J.K.Rowling with the Harry Potter series.
The author suggested to use only ‘at-will’ relationships with agents and to not sign a contract.
The author felt the editor of the book was more important to the author than the agent. The editor could help improve the book through the editing process but also guide the writer in the publishing world circles.
Thanks for sharing; want to hear more in person.