Write your novel. A full-length novel ranges from 60,000 to 100,000 words and should be scrupulously edited for content, grammar and spelling. The manuscript should be written in a consistent font, so that some pages are not written in Times New Roman and others in Arial. Use the spell checker to ensure there are no spelling errors.
Compose a query letter for your novel. The query letter should include an engaging introduction, tell a little bit about your background, and provide a summary of the novel. List a few of your previous publications in literary magazines.
Contact literary agents that represent novels in your genre by sending them your query letter. The “Guide to Literary Agents” and “Guide to Literary Publishing” provide a full listing of agents, along with their contact information, specialties and experience. Do not include a chapter unless the agent specifies that this is his preference. You can find out about an agent's preferences on the agency's website or in interviews. The agent may also prefer submissions through regular mail.
With the help of your agent, submit your manuscript to publishers of your genre. For instance, Avon publishes paperback romance novels, which are distributed at bookstores, drugstores and some other businesses that do not primarily sell books. Five Star Mystery Novels specializes in paperback crime fiction. Note that "unagented" submissions, or submissions by unrepresented authors, are not usually considered by book publishers anymore.
Negotiate a contract with an interested publisher. The contract will include an advance sum of money as well as determine the royalties for each book sold. It will also address ancillary rights such as sales to television and movie production companies. The deal will often stipulate certain revisions to the novel, and you as the author will work closely with the publisher’s editor on any changes required.