Lesson 4: Erotica Markets
Submission Guidelines
1. Write first, then look for a market. You have to write what you enjoy writing. If you try to force your writing to fit a particular market, it may seem labored or contrived.
2. Go to your local bookstore and browse. Become familiar with the markets that are out there, then zero in on the ones you feel would potentially be interested in your piece.
3. Read the submissions guidelines. It’s VERY IMPORTANT to follow directions.
4. Address your letter to the appropriate person and be sure to SPELL THE NAME CORRECTLY.
5. Write a query letter or letter of submission. Most often with short fiction, you should write a good letter of submission. Query letters are used most often with non-fiction and longer-length manuscripts, i.e., novellas and novels.
6. The synopsis is usually submitted with the query letter in accordance with submission guidelines. The synopsis is written as an enticing summary of your novella or novel.
IF YOU WANT TO EXPLORE OTHER MARKETS, YOU SHOULD OBTAIN A COPY OF WRITER’S DIGEST’S WRITER’S MARKET.
SAMPLE LETTERS
Submission Letter
January 1, 200X
Mr. George Jones EROTIC EXPRESS 222 XYZ Street NY, NY 10000
Dear Mr. Jones:
I am an avid reader of your magazine, EROTIC EXPRESS. I have enjoyed every issue, especially the short erotic fiction.
I am enclosing a short story, titled One Hot Night, for your review and consideration. This story is written according to the guidelines published on your website. [If you have writing experience, include it here.] I have been writing erotic fiction for ZZZ Publications since 1996, including short fiction like the pieces published in your magazine.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Mary Berry
Query Letters
January 1, 200X
Mr. George Jones EXCELLENT BOOKS 222 XYZ Street NY, NY 10000
Dear Mr. Jones:
Enclosed is a synopsis of my erotic 40,000 word novel, titled One Hot Night. The story revolves around Tiffany Jameson, a private investigator, who is hired to protect wealthy, handsome Tom Anderson. Their love-hate relationship makes it difficult for both of them, as Tiffany struggles to solve the mystery that surrounds Tom and his dot.com company.
Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Mary Berry
