Kate Nash

I admit to recommending newer writers first master simple past as I think for present tense the voice needs to be very strong to pull it off. #AskAgent

Yes a strong hook is important. #AskAgent

Realistically I can't see it. The kinds of historical stories you might want to write as YA you might as well write as adult fiction. What would be fabulous would be the return of historical teen fiction! #AskAgent

Single is the more common house style at publishers in UK but use what you like in your manuscript. Doesn't matter. #AskAgent

I'd ask to see what the writer writes next. #AskAgent

I probably chat with most debut authors about a possible change of title. I think it's quite important. My top tip is to try and get conflict in the title. #AskAgent

Yes certainly mention this in your submission letter. #AskAgent

"I write this sitting in the kitchen sink" - Dodie Smith, I Capture the Castle. #AskAgent

PS It's a myth that you need connections to get a literary agent. Agencies invest huge resource in reading unsolicited work writers send in. We can do more to educate that submissions are open but the fact is they are open. #AskAgent

At our agency submissions have always been open and we get huge volumes of submissions. Our agency supports diversity / low income bursaries with RNA and CWA and I make effort to attend events around UK to promote how accessible literary agents are. #AskAgent

Lots of agents do represent literary fiction. I don't. You can easily check but looking up what individual agents represent, on their websites etc. #AskAgent

In some genres sequels can work well but it is not something I take into consideration within romance. #AskAgent

For self-publishing I would suggest using a free platform like KDP or Lulu. Will need adult help. #AskAgent

We don't have this but I honestly would rather a writer came back with something new 2 years later because a project I said no to then I will say the same now. #AskAgent

I would revise if I had specific feedback from the editor on what to change. Otherwise, maybe not. You might remove the thing they really liked! #AskAgent

6. Does the agency commit to keeping my confidential affairs confidential?

7. Does the agency commit to keeping me apprised of relevant information and offers received?

8. What happens if my agent dies / retires / disappears? How am I protected?

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3. Does the agency commit to passing on royalties promptly?

4. Does the agency have adequate professional indemnity insurance?

5. Does the agency commit to representing my best interests? Are there any conflicts of interest?

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8 questions prospective clients rarely ask but really should:

1. Is the literary agency a member of the AAA (or AAR in the US)? (See agentsassoc.co.uk/about/code-of-…)

2. Are client monies kept in a separate bank account?

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Characters talking to themselves in a mirror. #AskAgent

The quickest halt to my reading a sample is when I start going back up the page to reread and still haven't the foggiest what is going on. #AskAgent