Jessica Reino

I’m sorry that happened to you! This is just my opinion, but it can be hard for agents to sell work that was previously published to a larger house even if you own the rights back. If you want an agent,query with a new project first and then talk about those books #TheWritersZen

Great question! Yes you would definitely want to inform all agents that you received a publishing offer from an indie press. Most agents want to work with an author throughout their career so may ask to see other work as well, but…

But believe me that queries get read and thoroughly considered. And although I would love to give personal feedback on each query, the amount of queries that come in along with regular work/life responsibilities makes it impossible. #TheWritersZen

Then you’re good to go and the waiting begins. I am so sorry for the wait too! I know it’s awful and to those who queried me and waited months and months for a response I apologize. #TheWritersZen

In the first pages, be sure your story is starting in the right place and the setup to stakes is clear #TheWritersZen

Then, according to sub guidelines, you should submit the supporting material. Usually the first 10 pages but it could be more or less depending on the agent. #TheWritersZen

Queries should be a page in length containing that info as well as an author bio with social media handles if any #TheWritersZen

When I’m going through queries, I’m looking for genre, word count, voice, plot/stakes, fit in the marketplace #TheWritersZen

And no comps is better than mentioning comps that wouldn’t do your book justice. #TheWritersZen

When using comp titles it should be from work that was published within the last few years. But remember, it’s also okay to comp movies or TV shows #TheWritersZen

A lot of agencies use QueryManager and not email so be sure to always follow guidelines and only submit material that is requested. #TheWritersZen

Reason 2 the writer puts down other writers or agents in general #TheWritersZen

Reason 1 the query letter is written from the point of view of the character. Query letters are business letters & oftentimes the first intro a writer has to the agent and I want to get an overview of the work from the writer’s POV not the character #TheWritersZen

Great question! A few misspellings happen so I would never stop reading a query because of that. :) #TheWritersZen but here are a few reasons I may stop reading…

When you’re preparing to submit your work, be sure to go to the agency’s website for the most current information for submission guidelines. #TheWritersZen

Speaking from my own agenting experience, I am always busy. There is really never any time of year where it’s better or worse to submit to me if I’m open to queries. #TheWritersZen

One of the biggest questions I get is when is a good time to query agents. My answer is if an agent is open to queries and your manuscript and query letter is ready, then submit away! #TheWritersZen

I truly appreciate all those writers who have queried me and thanks for joining #TheWritersZen chat! My DMs are also always open for publishing related questions.

I am so fortunate to work with amazing authors who are also genuinely amazing people. #TheWritersZen

Trust is essential. Agents are working for their authors and should give authors and their projects the attention they deserve whether you are a bestseller or still drafting after several submission rounds. #TheWritersZen