How to handle request for an exclusive read

[johnh27]

I need some advice - I got a query response from Elizabeth Pomada at Larsen Pomada Literary. She requested that I send her my book for review on an exclusive basis. Is there a standard period that the exclusivity should last? I don't want to take my book off the table for an indeterminate period of time.

[CharleeVale]

I could be wrong, but I've heard that six weeks is a good amount of time.

Whatever time you decide, make sure that you specify clearly!

CV

[HillaryJ]

Six weeks is often an agent-suggested timeframe. But I've also seen two and four weeks. Unless I really wanted to work with a specific agent, I don't know that I would grant more than four.

John, it would be worth it to ask her. If she is unable to give you a timeframe, feel free to specify that you are willing to grant her a exclusive period of [whatever you're comfortable with] weeks. While a request for an exclusive should indicate a high level of interest, and therefor a quick response, it often does not.

Good luck!

[cheekychook]

First off, congrats on the request for an exclusive! That's awesome!

I agree 6 weeks should be sufficient and you could probably ask if she can get back to you in 4 weeks. Also, make sure to let her know if your manuscript is out with anyone else already or if you have other outstanding queries.

Be positive in terms of saying you're delighted she wants to read it and you're happy to give her an exclusive look (if you are indeed both of those things), but don't leave it open-ended. Especially with the holidays approaching she could easily keep a full for 3-6 months if a predetermined guideline hasn't been set, and you don't want to have to sit on your hands and wait for that long. Agree on a time frame with her, and then nudge at that point if you don't hear from her.

Best of luck to you. Keep us posted!

[johnh27]

Thank you all for the advice.

Cheeky - thanks so much for the insightful feedback you gave me on my query letter. That's what did it!

John H

[Googder]

Thank you, I, too, these tips are useful