A great place to start is your local library where you'll find a wealth of information on writers groups and plenty of books on writing and the publishing process. From our own list we recommend The Practice of Writing by David Lodge.

When you feel you work is ready for publishing, the best way to approach a publisher is through a Literary Agent. Agents can objectively advise you on your work and will know the most suitable publisher to take it to, not to mention fighting for the best deal on your behalf. A comprehensive listing of UK literary agents can be found in the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook published annually by A & C Black.

Different markets demand a different approach, so we also offer specialist advice for aspiring Adult fiction, Children's fiction and Reference authors.