One way to get out of the query trenches and really stand out? Pitch a book to an agent directly! Speaking face to face gives you the chance to make a personal impression, as well as gauge what the agent is getting excited about or turned off by as you speak. Even if it doesn’t…
Category: Querying
How to pick a writers conference
It’s that season again! A wide majority of writers conferences are scheduled for late spring or through the summer, so if you have been thinking about attending one, it’s time to start making decisions. But there are so many choices! How do you pick a writers conference? First, think of your goals. Why do you…
Sample Query Letter: How to write a query letter by example
Not sure where to start your query letter? Sometimes looking at a sample query letter that has proven to be successful in the past is a perfect place to start.
Genres vs. Tropes: Getting your novel to the right readers
How do you find your books’ target audience or even the right shelf? The first, simplest step: understand genres vs. tropes, and how they apply to your novel.
How to power up your query with charged language
Charged language is a method of conveying a specific way of thinking, implying more beyond the written word. When introducing your story to a publisher, your words must spark a feeling they want to explore, a desire that requires your full manuscript to quench.
Primary Conflict: How to create the right conflict
Most stories in any genre are going to have a good amount of conflict. Actually, any novel I’ve ever read has several types of conflict, one following another, all tumbling like dominoes until the big finish. But your primary conflict is the most important.
Elevator Pitch for Books: How to create one & why
An elevator pitch is the shortest, most boiled-down version of the mere essence of your story. It’s a quick hook that can take advantage of the smallest moment of potential opportunity.
Book Pitch Prep List: How to pitch your manuscript
There are many routes to traditional publishing—cold queries and pitch sessions, Twitter events and contests. Some of these options will take you directly to publishing house editors; most funnel through the ever-elusive Literary Agent.
Synopsis vs Blurb: Why you need both to create a powerful query
If there are two publishing industry terms I see mixed up the most, it’s probably synopsis vs blurb. Both are very important to the publishing process, so it’s important to know the difference to be professional in conversation, and to accomplish your publishing goals.
Pitching a literary agent this year? Get prepped.
Writing conference season is just around the corner. If you read my article about how to get a literary agent through pitching instead of querying, now is the time to prepare.