Lauren Mosko, of Writer's Digest Books, is the editor of Novel & Short Story Writer's Market, the most comprehensive resource for writers who want to sell their fiction. Complete Bio

Q: Can I just send my Web site to publishers instead of printed materials and refer them to specific links as my submission(s)? -Beryl

A: Thanks for your question, Beryl. Unless the publisher specifically says in its submission guidelines that it accepts links to Web sites, I do not advise you to use this method. The editors will not take the time to look at your Web site and will just delete your e-mail.

The best way to ensure that your manuscript gets read is to submit it exactly in the manner the publisher designates. If you're unsure what the publisher wants, call or write to request submission guidelines or check the publisher's Web site.

Good luck!

Q: I'm 13 years old. Will this make it harder or easier to find an agent or publisher? -Michael

A: Wow. You're getting an early start, aren't you, Michael!

Right now, you don't need to worry about getting an agent at all. I'm assuming that you're sending your stories to magazines that ask for creative work from teenagers, and none of those require that you have an agent to submit.

If you're not submitting to these types of magazines (like Cicada), I suggest you start there first not only to build up some experience working with an editor but also to compile a portfolio of published work. It's this experience that will help you get your foot in the door at bigger magazines (and eventually book publishers), regardless of your age.

Best of luck!

Q: I am an aspiring romance/western/woman writer, but have noticed many if not all first-time authors, especially romance, sign contracts for 2-3 more books. I am 73 and wonder whether "more books" is always a commitment necessary for publication if a manuscript is accepted?
-Earlene

A: That's a terrific question, Earlene.

I think the level of commitment for future books depends on the publisher and also the type of book you're writing. For example, the romance market is often broken up into two categories: series and single-title books.

Series books fit in a larger group of similar works and may have common themes or characters. Usually a group of writers all contribute multiple installments in a series.

Single-title books stand alone. If you submit your manuscript to a publisher who produces single-title romances/westerns, you should be in good shape, commitment-wise.

Don't forget that whether or not the publisher expects a follow-up book or books is part of your contract negotiations, so I'd deal with this "problem" (oh, if we could all only be begged to write multiple books by a publisher!) when you come to it. I wouldn't let the idea of being asked to write a second or third book keep you from submitting in the first place.