Tim Link has recently signed with agent Meredith Hays of FinePrint Literary Management. Tim, thank you for agreeing to this interview. Congratulations and good luck.



QueryTracker: Can you tell us a little bit about the book for which you’ve found representation? What inspired you to write it?

Tim Link: The book focuses on how to better understand, communicate and build great relationships with the animals in your life. I consult people on a daily basis on issues they are having with the animals in their life.



QT: How long have you been writing?

TL: Three years



QT: How long have you been working on this book?

TL: It’s still a work in progress. I estimate spending one year on the book, before publishing edits.



QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?

TL: Never give up!



QT: Is this your first book?

TL: No, my first book “Wagging Tales” was published in May 2009.



QT: Do you have any formal writing training?

TL: No



QT: Do you follow a writing "routine" or schedule?

TL: No, but you should write daily.



QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?

TL: Still in progress.



QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?

TL: No, just my wife and agent.



QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?

TL: Always outline



QT: How long have you been querying for this book?

TL: Six months



QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?

TL: 50+



QT: On what criteria did you select the agents you queried?

TL: Referrals and track history with the topic/genre of the book.



QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?

TL: Only by name and address, unless they were referred.



QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?

TL: Be persistent, network and never give up.