Amy Giuffrida

There is no new adult category and probably never really will be other than self-pubbed titles. I'm pissed about it, because it should be something, but it's not and I have no control over it. Titles are either YA or Adult.

Good question...I would definitely look to see if there are another titles with straight pairings you can put together as comps. I am here for all the romance--straight or not--but honestly, when I see say RW&RB as a comp, I expect LGBTQ+ characters/storyline.

Yes. I am no science fiction expert--I love Star Wars, so I'm going to keep that with the masters. If it is grounded in our world, that is more my speed.

If it is an animal and it talks it is a no for me--magical or real.

Unless it is something that would be on my never-ever-ever list (abusive, horrid, awful, religious), then I would query me. I may love the other book you've written because of your style--and this has happened before FYI. And would be a talking point upon an offer.

I love sports, but I don't want exposition with a ton of sports details or rules. Like think about how lacross was used in Teen Wolf🙌 or soccer in Yellowjackets🐝

Here's a fun fact: I lettered in softball & field hockey (goalie), and played softball for a year in college.

100% not following sub guidelines & not writing a query letter that tells about your story. This is NOT the time to blow smoke or be vague. You don't have to be perfect, but I want to know what makes this story something I should read.

Let agents know of any offers you receive, whether they are from pubs or agents. It is also nice to be told if you are pulling a query if you've accepted an offer of publication/representation. Also, make sure to do your research on any indy pub before signing anything!

If you can hit that dual timeline with perfection...I am so here for it!

I enjoy stories with animals in them, just not ones with them having conversations with anyone.

I would see if the agent has a timeline on their website first and nudge after that time has expired. While nudging isn't a bad thing, remember October isn't that long to have a full. It is taking agents a long time to get through the many 2021 submissions.

Can I say...

My favorite part of MG is the voice. It is so fun to read! I really look for whimsy and big adventure. Personally, I'd love to see more on the upper end, because 13 and 14 is still technically middle grade...but we won't get into that now. 😂

First, no on likes to write a synopsis--ask my clients. Lol. Second, in a query I like to know the down and dirty of the story--beginning, middle, end- you can leave me hanging tho. Give me the stakes and a reason for reading. Comps also help, but only if they are recent.

I wouldn't automatically reject on this only, especially with fantasy. If we were talking 20k, that would be a different story. Always keep the guidelines for genre in mind, but if the writing is amazing, we can always boost word count a bit. #AskAgent

We are very close! Even though we work with our clients independently, we are still a team and bounce ideas off each other frequently. We all benefit from each other's creativity:) #askagent

I'm looking for a unique hook to your story. If the story is good and the voice is strong...I will want to see it. #askagent

In the query, we should know the stakes, the conflict, the characters and tension. Save the ending reveal for the synopsis. #askagent

Depends on whether or not you are already agented, but it is ok to write in multiple genres:) Means you are a rockstar!! #askagent

Working with critique partners or joining a local writing group can always be helpful to straighten your story. #askagent