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Good friends out there, this is a request for advice. I know some on my flist are professional writers and teachers of writing, and I don't expect you to give out advice for free online--I know that's your profession! This is directly to others who are more closely in my own situation, but maybe know more than I.

I've written my first novel and had some readers who've encouraged me to try publishing. I'm feeling hestitant about the best way to do that. I've gone to the online sites (Mystery Writers of America, etc.) and I've bought and read Writer's Market and Guide to Publishers and Agents, but still feeling a bit unclear.

I read and hear that you should look for agents, but then others say, nah, go straight to the publisher. I read and hear not to send any chapters, etc., with the query letter unless the agent/publisher says that's the way to start, but others say send a few chapters, it won't hurt. I've started my second novel (these would be a series)--is it better to market one or two?

Anybody know anything about this? (and if anyone out there is in a reading mood... but be warn, this is cozy mystery with regional setting, not fantasy...I'd be most grateful)

ETA: Been forgetting to post my version of this: ( the reading meme )