Kelly Van Sant

That should say “trunked” not troubled!!! 😂

I think the second contracted book is always harder than the first, because writing under contract is just a very different kind of pressure. But I don’t think troubled novels impact that. Everyone has a different path.

I need to update my response times everywhere because I am behind behind behind behind. But yes, I do believe in responding to everyone.

Never requery the same agent with the same project unless specifically invited to do so. (The agent will say: I’d like to see this again if you revise). You can go back to the same agents with new, different work. But not the same book again.

No editor is going to buy 10 books in one go. Even HP was contracted in smaller chunks. So make sure your books have satisfying arcs without needing to read all 10.

If an agent falls in love, very little will turn them off. But, yes. If a query comes in indicating this is book one of ten then I do become concerned. Concerns are: is this length necessary? Can these characters and plots be sustained that long? Can this writer accept edits?

A compelling character with clear wants and real stakes. A great voice.

Psh! Two requests is great! You are fine! Dark, weird, and literary is a time-tested combo.

Of course! I’ve seen quiet a few deals for quieter books come through lately. But I never advise writing toward the market, as so much shifts all the time. Write the books you want to write. They’ll find the homes and readers that are meant for them.

This depends on so many factors it’s almost impossible to answer. But one thing I can tell you is that you have to write (and often sell!) one book at a time. If you plan out a 3/5/7 book arc, that’s great! But no one will see those later sequels if the first book isn’t out there