Aloha to Scott Eagan from the Greyhaus Literary Agency

I am following the online discussions of the upcoming RWA National Conference at #RWA12, #RWA2012, #RWAtips, and #RWAsurvivaltips.  After reading Scott Eagan's tweets, I invited him for a cozy chat about his life as a literary agent. 

Kim:  What exactly do you do as a literary agent?

Scott:  A literary agent actually wears many hats. We not only work as the "go-between" with the writers and the publishers, we also spend a lot of time consulting and editing with our writers. For me personally, I try to work with authors from the early brainstorming phase through the final completion. Of course, this all depends on the writer. Some of my writers take a more independent approach. 

Along with this aspect, we obviously are making calls to editors to champion our authors books. We not only want to see the projects published, but we also want to see the best situations for the authors once they are under contract. This is that "good cop - bad cop" approach. We want you and your editor to be on great terms when working on your latest projects. If there is a problem, you let the agent handle it.

We are also there as a friend. There are some days that, as an agent, the only work we have to do with our writers is to tell them they are still worthy. We all have those bad days and sometimes it is great to know you have a shoulder to cry on.

Outside of this work, at Greyhaus, one of my missions is to provide education and communication, so that too takes up a lot of time. Obviously I maintain the blog which is a 5 day a week schedule. I also provide workshops and seminars (both in person and online). This means a lot of prep work to streamline the session specifically for the group I will be working with. So, if you want me to come to the Islands, let me know and I'll be right there! (smile).

I also provide a lot of critiques for writing groups. 

If Scott came to Hawaii, we'd welcome him with a lei.

Kim:  What trends do you see emerging in Romanceland?

Scott:  The trend question is always a tough one since many authors think they will jump on board with it immediately. First of all, never follow trends. Write your story and go with that.

But with that said, I think the romance industry is really making some new shifts. I think it is desperately looking to find that new voice and style. I think the stories are trying to be more realistic. Contemporary is certainly heading in that direction. In fact, I think if you hear a lot of people talk about "women's fiction" what they are really talking about is contemporary romance.

In the other genres, I think we are seeing the romance element starting to take a smaller role in the storyline (which I think is a shame). I think people are so hung up on the great plot line that the romance is becoming secondary. I will say, if you can find a way to bring that romance back in, you will be in great shape!

Bringing the romance back ... to the beach!

Kim:  What are you reading, other than romance submissions?

Scott:  Honestly, most of my day is reading romance. I also simply enjoy reading romance so that is what I read. I did just start reading the Wicked Stories since I'll be seeing the musical in November and wanted to get caught up on those. Also reading THE GREATER JOURNEY by David McCullough. 

Mahalo, Scott, for joining us at SOS Aloha!  I am giving away a book choice from my convention stash to one randomly selected commenter.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  What "trend" would you like to see in RomanceLand?

2.  This giveaway is open to all readers.

3.  Comments are open though Saturday, July 28, 10 pm in Hawaii.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, July 29.

Mahalo,

Kim in Hawaii

To learn more about Scott, Greyhaus Literary Agency, and books from authors he represents, check out the agency's website at www.greyhausagency.com.

Great place to read a book ....