Naomi Davis

On predictability (or originality) in your manuscript. #askagent (I wasn't actually asked, really, more just the natural development of a conversation that may be an answer to a question someone else is asking!)

#askagent response about why I pass on full manuscripts. Other key reasons: multiple POVs were not deeply immersed enough for me to experience a cohesive story, characters who felt lifeless, story was predictable, plot wandered too much, worldbuilding lacked in multiple scenes.

But MOST often, the skill level is where I needed it to be but it just didn't DRAG ME IN the way I'd hoped. It's a subjective reaction not indicative of anyrhing wrong with the book - just didn't make me feel like I MUST have it. #askagent

Just because they aren't "ready" doesn't mean they aren't worthy of my time, attention, and response.

Nor is my opinion the be all end all of responses.

And think of what I might miss for those who cannot afford the postage to send out a batch of 15 page q packets! #askagent

Great question! Definitely ask for time. Any good agent will be willing to give you 2 weeks. Inform all other agents with the full manuscript that you have an offer, giving them 2 weeks to respond. With any luck you'll be able to choose from several reputable agents! #askagent

I received 2,679 queries this year.
#querystats #askagent

An author needs to feel like *I* am the right match for them as much as I do. When I lose one, it does hurt (VERY much so!), but I'm glad they are confident in the direction they've chosen. I want the best for them+book, even if that best is not me. #askagent #querystats

That said, editor preferences are as wildly varied&subjective as agent preferences, and then they have the added step of convincing sales/marketing/etc that the book is a solid investment. Def not as simple as seeing a book is a good fit for a house based on prev pubs. #askagent

#askagent of the 189 full manuscripts I've requested this year from QueryManager, I have signed 12 authors.
#querystats

#askagent
My biggest reason for rejecting is that the writing wasn't ready. Or the story didn't feel original enough.
For accepting: the writing wowed me (original&dynamic voice) and the story felt like something I hadn't read before.

Happy to weigh in. Personally, I don't work with Wattpad titles unless substantially revised into something new. But other #askagent folks may have other opinions, and I hope others will weigh in!

I think 100k is your upper limit, and some agents will say even that is too high. Aim for 85k if you can. #askagent

Unfortunately, no, this isn't a good idea. We read so many queries we cannot possibly provide personal feedback to everyone who wants it. @TracyMarchini I think has a Tweet about her query stats for the last year.
#askbookends #askagent

I don't think you'll get rejected for, like, having different indentations, etc - that would be silly - but as a general rule, we read a LOT, so having easy fonts and double spacing is really important so our eyes don't bleed. #askbookends #askagent

I think it's important to remember that trends shift, swing, and surge over the years. What's oversaturated now might make another appearance in popularity at some point. What about writing something new in the genre you love, that breaks the tropes?#askbookends #askagent

This doesn't influence my decision - the writing should paint the picture for me. That said, it doesn't harm anything, either, and when I sign a client I love seeing their Pinterest boards. #askbookends #askagent

A simple reply should be fine. #askbookends #askagent

If it helps, "Crossover" is the word that is used to indicate the "new adult" age range without implying that it's a "New Adult" novel (college romance, typically heavy on sex/partying). #askbookends #askagent

Marketability is so tricky to predict. What's hitting shelves now usually sold 1-2 yrs ago. It's almost easier to tell what's NOT marketable based on what was on the shelves a few years ago. Following #MSWL does help see repeated patterns agents/editors asking for. #askagent

So many possibilities to why an agent doesn't connect w/ character. Could be due to problems with interiority, or infodumping, or bland voice,or bored character, or could simply be agent's reading preferences.Rejections are all subjective. Crit partners can likely help. #askagent