On Edwin Kaiser and Related Topics

[Peter Lemkin]

Scott, I do think you have a story, and while you know some parts of it, I think other parts are still unclear [as to their meaning, players, motives, level of cover-up, implications, etc.]. This is NOT unusual, but publishers [and/or literary agents] need such as-yet undefined [or not fully defined] aspects written in a certain way to not loose the reader. Most readers do not understand the complexities of covert operations, nor the difficulties in making sense of them and the documentary evidence, statements by those who knew aspects of the events, etc. If it is possible to get a good editor, knowledgeable in this field - or a co-writer knowledgeable in this field, that would be best. These can sometimes be paid for and supplied by a publisher - sometimes you need to do so yourself before presenting a MS to a publisher. You would have the right to review it, but someone not so personally involved and just another person's viewpoint might be able to present it in a way more palatable to publishers, and more clear to the reader. Money always comes into such decisions, I know. I personally don't think your posting on forums has tainted or 'spoiled' any book, as you have not disclosed a lot of materials nor conclusions. Maybe it all needs a few more years work and re-writing, though it is impossible for me to know not having seen what shape the MS is in now. Lastly, one way to get some free advice and help may be to send copies of the MS to a few authors/researchers in the field [with their promise to not disclose further your research] for their feedback on the writing, conclusions, state of the research, ideas to make it better, ideas to get it published. Perhaps a literary agent can do this for you - or you can do it yourself with the help of a literary attorney. Just my two cents. Personally, I find your story very interesting, very important, but not clear enough [as presented from forum posts]. Good luck, and don't give up. Some of the best authors/researchers have had more trouble than you getting into print. Publishers are not much into the historical importance of the material; more into the money they might make in the printing as well as their reputation.