Jessica Faust

You can always skip comps. I think only a small numbers of the queries I get include comps. #askagent

Yes. That's a LOT of extra words, but my guess is your manuscript will be better for it. #askagent

Not if its really setting up the world building #askagent

Whichever one you like the best #askagent

No really, the best way to approach an agent is the way you would approach anyone, with real interest in getting to know her and have a conversation, not just to pitch. #askagent

With a drink in hand. ;) #askagent

How do you think the publisher will convey that to a reader? If you're struggling the publisher might too & then I ask, "are they different enough?" #askagent

Show, don't tell #askagent

The smallest part of an agent's job is selling the book. We negotiate a strong contract, help with career planning, editing, ideas, revisions, career management & handling difficult situations/conversations with publishers whenever needed #askagent

.@TracyMarchini can best answer whether you actually "need" an agent, but I will stress that an agent's job is so much more than simply selling a book #askagent #amagenting

Keep it simple. Focus on writing a strong blurb and the rest is pretty standard--bio, nice introduction, etc. Don't overthink it. #querytip #askagent

Another good exercise is to write queries/book blurbs for some of your favorite books. (Don't cheat and read the cover copy). It might help you get into the practice of what a blurb is. #askagent #querytip

If the query blurb isn't working, you might need to look at the book. Sometimes the problem isn't getting the query to work, but in the book itself. #askagent #querytip

I also often recommend writing the blurb before you write the book. It can help keep you focused on the strongest and most marketable points of your book. #askagent

Focus 99% of your energies on the blurb. Sometimes it's the only thing I read. #askagent

In July & August however, @bookendslit has been known to have some of our biggest sales. #askagent

The only time of year I suggest not querying is December. In December nothing truly gets done. #askagent

Listen, there is definitely a slowdown in August in a lot of industries. It's when everyone goes on vacation. However, when everyone else is on vacation it gives those of us who aren't time to read through submissions. #askagent

Oh. "They" are such downers. Query! Query! Query in August. #askagent

Some agents have the unique ability to handle 50 clients, some can only handle 5 (time management skills). #askagent In other words, the workload of any existing roster can vary greatly at all times.