Meet the Agent: Chloe Seager

29 Jul Meet the Agent: Chloe Seager

Meet the Agent: Chloe Seager: Madeleine Milburn Literary, Film & TV Agency

*This interview is subjective, pertaining to Chloe and her experience*

The MM Agency is a dedicated and passionate literary agency with a global outlook, specialising in launching debut writers, international rights and book to screen adaptations.

For more information check out the website here: About Us – Madeleine Milburn Literary Agency

Chloe Seager runs the children’s and YA department. For more details about, Chloe and what she is looking for, click here: Chloe Seager – The Official Manuscript Wish List Website

Q & A

When an agent requests a polished manuscript, but there are still some mistakes, would that be enough to make it a rejection for you?

No. If we take on a client, we work on books with them for up to a year. Our agents are all editorial and we have in-house editors also.

Do you look for a particular layout in a query letter? 

The hook first and foremost, as it’s so important to carry the book all the way through to publication – from author to agent, from agent to publisher, from publisher to retailer and from retailer to reader.

How much personal information do you require in a query?

Not much. I want to know why they are the person to write this story and the inspiration behind it. A few lines about where they live and general life details is fine.

Is your first name okay to use for salutation?

No preference. I’m not very formal. Dear Chloe is fine.

Do you read all your submissions or does your agency have assistants for incoming queries?

This differs by agent. I prefer not to use assistants as I’m very close to my submissions and very personal about queries. I receive around one hundred and fifty subs a week.

Would word count influence your decision?

Only if it was wildly too long or far too short. Stick to industry standards or as close to.  

Can you explain the process of how you make a decision to offer representation?

Firstly, I have to fall in love with a book. Then I would arrange to speak to the potential client and see if we get on and vibe. Then an official offer would be made if it’s right on both parts.

What happens next after offering and how long do you expect for an answer to the offer?

I would hope for a response within a week, however, I have been known to extend that. No longer than two weeks. It’s important they want to work with me too.

Would you consider authors who have previously self-published or published through a small press?

Yes.

What would put you off a manuscript? E.g. swearing etc?

No, I’m not too precious. I’m open to anything if it’s handled in the right way.

What is a respectable time frame for a nudge email? 

Don’t nudge unless it’s for material previously requested, and then, after twelve weeks.

Do you like to know if people querying have had manuscript requests or offers of representation? 

Yes.

What would you love to land in your inbox right now?

A YA, hooky romance. I’m open to, chapter books, middle grade and YA.