Lane Heymont

Don’t send ur query out when u finish it, or even an hour after. Take a break and come back to it later. Double check everything. #querytip

Know what's new in your genre. What are people reading? Also, the classics. If anything, just to be able to chitchat w/ others. #querytip

Also, if we don’t want to rep your story why would we want to steal it? #querytip

We are not going to steal your story. The thought has not crossed our minds, and using the © symbol implies you think we might. #querytip

There's no reason to use the copyright symbol (©) in your query or on your manuscript. When your pen hits paper, it’s copyrighted. #querytip

Evoke emotions by using emotional words in your writing and query. Show us your character's conflict, don't tell us about it. #querytip

Conventions are AMAZING when it comes to schmoozing w/ agents and editors. Attend them and mingle. i.e. rtconvention.com/eventworkshop/… #querytip

Don't start ur ms off with your character waking up for the day. Even if they're a kid and it's the first day of school. #querytip #writetip

Every sentence of ur story should be seeped in tension. Even whispers between lovers. Everything in life is in conflict. #querytip #writetip

The best fiction is steeped in fact. Examples: @ChrisBohjalian’s Skeletons at the Feast, and the new #SalemWGNA tv show. #querytip #writetip

I’ve literally had this headache for an entire day. Don’t query when you have a headache. Is that a good #querytip? Sorry, my mind is fried.

Tropes do not become stale, people's delivery of those tropes become stale. Leave your stamp on everything you touch. #querytip #writetip

Also, I am a man. #querytip

That reminds me: I am NOT an agent. I cannot sell your manuscript. Query via the appropriate channels. #querytip

Your characters should be relatable, even in your query. An agent should be able to say, "Dang, I GET that." #querytip #writetip

Tropes are dangerously beautiful. Use them, but bend them to your will. #querytip #writetip

Start your story when everything in your MC's life changes. #querytip #writetip

An intriguing title is as important as an intriguing first sentence. Just saying. #querytip

Don't talk bad about agents and/or the publishing industry. My bosses are AGENTS and I'm in the INDUSTRY (u want to be in it too). #querytip

There's no reason to send an author photo with your query. It's pointless. Unless you're a real satyr. Then I'm interested. #querytip