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What is Midlist?

Midlist is a side-eyed look at publishing from a sort-of successful novelist.

It goes out to curious readers and weary writers at midday every Wednesday and includes:

Gripes: Why do some authors get seven-figure deals while others get a pittance? Who gets to be anointed as a literary “it girl”? And what do authors really think of celebrities on their turf?

Advice: Should authors plumb their trauma for the national papers? Or network with people they hate? Should they dance on TikTok to sell more books, or reveal to their peers what they earn?

Thoughts on life: Is it helpful or harmful to have a creative nemesis? Should you “always project success” or aim for authenticity? And how do you keep on working when you’re worried about money?

Midlist grapples with the answers.